Welcome, fellow woodworkers! Let’s talk about one of the most valuable tools in our arsenal – the thickness planer. And not just any thickness planer, but a WEN thickness planer. If you’re already familiar with these tools, you’d know how they have made a name for themselves in the woodworking community. If not, let’s just say that these machines are nothing short of a game-changer when it comes to achieving the perfect thickness and smoothness for your wood planks.
What makes WEN thickness planers stand out? Simple. They bring together performance, easy usability, and good value, creating a tool that is both effective and efficient. But what’s more, they come with innovative features that make the process of planing wood not only easier but also more precise.
WEN Thickness Planers Key Features
Now, let’s talk specifics. What is it about WEN planers that make them a top choice for woodworkers? First off, they are known for their powerful motors, which can range from 12 to 15 Amps. This means they can handle all types of wood, hard or soft, without any issues.
Another thing you’ll love about WEN thickness planers is their setup. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a beginner, you’ll appreciate the easy setup process. This is a tool that won’t keep you guessing – it’s straightforward, it’s simple, and it’s ready to go when you are.
As for the features, these planers often come with a depth stop and a material removal gauge. These features are designed to give you more control over your work, allowing for precise planning and an immaculate finish.
Popular WEN Models
Among the many models that WEN offers, there are a few that stand out. The WEN PL1326 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer, for instance, is a crowd favorite. It’s outfitted with a 26-blade spiral cutterhead and a 15-Amp motor, providing a seamless planing experience. It also includes an onboard material removal gauge, depth stop, and an adjustable dust port. However, it might have some room for improvement in dust collection and might occasionally snipe on large pieces.
Another great model is the WEN PL1303 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer. Powered by a 15-Amp motor, this model promises up to 30,000 cuts per minute. It’s designed to repurpose rough and worn wood, giving it a smooth finish. A powerful motor and adjustable depth settings are among its key features.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a more basic, budget-friendly option, the WEN PL1252 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer might just be what you need. Although smaller in size, it also boasts a 15-Amp motor and two blades, making it perfect for smaller projects.
Each model has its strengths and weaknesses, but all WEN thickness planers share a common trait: they offer excellent value. Despite some minor issues, like dust collection and occasional snipe on larger pieces, these planers are still among the best in the market.
The WEN PL1326 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Planer
If you’re a woodworker in search of power and precision, the WEN PL1326 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer is certainly worth considering. This model is powered by a 15-Amp motor, which operates at a speed of 10,000 RPM, capable of handling both hard and soft woods with ease.
One feature that sets the PL1326 apart is its 26-blade spiral cutterhead. This feature ensures that every pass you make results in a smooth and even finish, reducing the need for sanding afterward. It also ensures that the tool can handle a wide range of wood types and sizes without any issues.
Another notable feature is the onboard material removal gauge. This tool gives you the ability to measure the amount of material being removed, allowing for precision and consistency in your work. The depth stop is another handy feature, helping to ensure that each pass is uniform and the final product is perfectly smooth.
However, the WEN PL1326 is not without its downsides. Some users have reported issues with the dust collection system, which might not be as efficient as you would like. In addition, there have been reports of occasional snipe on larger pieces. These issues are not deal-breakers, but they are worth considering before making a purchase.
The WEN PL1303 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Planer
Moving on to the WEN PL1303 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer, this model offers a different set of features and specifications. It is powered by a 15-Amp motor, just like the PL1326, but this tool boasts three blades and can provide up to 30,000 cuts per minute. This high cutting speed makes it particularly suitable for repurposing rough and worn wood, giving it a smooth finish.
The PL1303 comes with adjustable depth settings. This feature allows you to control the depth of each pass with precision, ensuring a smooth and even finish. The powerful motor coupled with the three blades makes this planer a highly efficient tool, capable of handling a variety of woodworking tasks with ease.
However, it’s important to note that the PL1303 might not have the same level of precision as the PL1326 due to the difference in cutterhead design. But for general woodworking tasks, it’s more than capable of delivering excellent results.
The WEN PL1252 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Planer
Lastly, we have the WEN PL1252 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer. Although smaller in size than the other two models, it also boasts a 15-Amp motor and two blades, making it a capable tool for smaller projects.
One of the biggest advantages of the PL1252 is its affordability. If you’re on a tight budget but still want a reliable thickness planer, this model is worth considering. Despite its smaller size, it’s still an efficient tool that can deliver a smooth finish on your wood pieces.
However, due to its smaller size and fewer blades, the PL1252 might not be able to handle larger tasks as efficiently as the PL1326 or PL1303. This tool is best suited for hobbyists or those who only need a planer for occasional use.
Comparing WEN Thickness Planers
With a range of models available, choosing the right WEN thickness planer for your needs can be a bit challenging. Each model has its strengths and certain features that make it a more suitable choice for specific tasks.
Let’s start with the WEN PL1326 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer. This is a powerful tool with a 15-Amp motor and a 26-blade spiral cutterhead. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a planer that can handle both hard and soft woods effectively. However, if efficient dust collection is a priority for you, this might not be the best choice.
If you’re someone who regularly works with rough and worn wood, the WEN PL1303 13-Inch 3-Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer would be an ideal pick. Thanks to its three blades and 15-Amp motor, it can deliver up to 30,000 cuts per minute, transforming rough wood into a smooth finish.
Lastly, for hobbyists or beginners looking for a budget-friendly yet reliable thickness planer, the WEN PL1252 12.5-Inch Two-Blade Benchtop Thickness Planer is an excellent choice. Despite its smaller size and fewer blades, it’s still a capable tool for smaller projects.
Maintenance Tips
Proper usage and maintenance can significantly extend the life of your WEN thickness planer. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Firstly, always make sure the wood you’re planing is free of any nails or screws. These can damage the blades and compromise the planer’s performance. Secondly, regularly clean the dust collection system to maintain its efficiency and prevent clogging.
When it comes to maintenance, regularly inspect the blades for signs of wear and tear. Dull blades can affect the quality of your work and strain the motor. Don’t forget to lubricate the moving parts periodically to ensure smooth operation.
Troubleshooting For WEN Thickness Planers
Like any power tool, WEN thickness planers can experience certain issues. For instance, some users have reported occasional snipe on larger pieces. This is a common problem with many planers and can often be mitigated by supporting the wood properly as it feeds into and out of the planer.
Inefficient dust collection is another common complaint. Regularly cleaning the dust port and using a dedicated dust extraction system can help to address this issue.
If you experience any other issues with your WEN thickness planer, we recommend referring to the user manual or contacting WEN customer service for assistance. They can provide expert advice and guide you through the troubleshooting process.
Conclusion
So, is a WEN thickness planer a worthwhile investment? The answer is a resounding yes. These tools offer excellent performance, ease of use, and value for money. Whether you’re a professional woodworker or a hobbyist, a WEN thickness planer can significantly enhance the quality of your projects. With the right model and proper maintenance, a WEN thickness planer can be a reliable companion in your woodworking journey.