Hey there! Looking for a benchtop jointer to help you achieve those smooth, perfectly straight edges on your woodworking projects? Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we will be comparing and reviewing three popular options: the PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, the Shop Fox W1876 Benchtop Jointer with Spiral-Style Cutterhead, and the RIKON Power Tools 20-600H Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutterhead.
Benchtop jointers have been a staple tool in the woodworking world for quite some time now. These machines are designed to flatten and square stock, allowing you to create precise edges and surfaces. They are perfect for tasks like trimming, straightening, and edge jointing various types of wood. Owning a benchtop jointer can greatly enhance the quality and efficiency of your woodworking projects, bringing them to a professional level.
Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these benchtop jointers. We will dive into their features, performance, and overall value for money. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s explore the world of benchtop jointers together!
PORTER-CABLE 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer with Variable Speed (PC160JT)
The PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, Variable Speed, 6-Inch (PC160JT) is primarily used for woodworking projects that require precise and accurate leveling and surfacing of wooden boards. It is a versatile tool that can be used by both professionals and DIY enthusiasts for tasks such as flattening rough lumber, squaring edges, and creating consistent thickness on boards.
There are several reasons why we like the PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer. Firstly, its variable speed feature is a great advantage. With a speed range of 6,000 to 11,000 RPM, you have the flexibility to adjust the cutting speed according to the size and hardness of the material you are working with. This allows for more control and ensures clean and accurate cuts.
Another feature that stands out is the two knife cutter head with a jack screw knife leveling arrangement. This makes it easy to replace and adjust the knives, resulting in improved performance and lengthened tool life. The built-in cutter head lock also adds convenience, as it simplifies the process of changing and adjusting the knives.
Furthermore, the extra large table of the PC160JT provides ample work support, allowing you to handle stock up to a full 6 inches wide. This is particularly beneficial when working with larger boards or when you need more stability during the jointing process. Overall, the combination of these features makes the PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer a reliable and user-friendly tool.
The purpose of the PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer is to provide woodworkers with a reliable and efficient tool for achieving smooth and flat surfaces on wooden boards. It is specifically designed to tackle tasks such as flattening rough lumber, squaring board edges, and creating uniform thickness. This helps ensure that your projects have precise dimensions and a professional finish.
Key features of the PC160JT include its variable speed range, which allows you to choose the appropriate cutting speed for different materials. The two knife cutter head with a jack screw knife leveling arrangement makes it easy to replace and adjust the knives, enhancing the jointer’s performance and durability. The built-in cutter head lock adds convenience and safety by securing the knives in place during operation.
Additionally, the extra large table provides ample work support, allowing you to handle stock up to 6 inches wide. This is particularly useful when working with larger boards or when you need extra stability while jointing. The overall design of the PC160JT ensures precision and accuracy in your woodworking projects.
The PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, Variable Speed, 6-Inch (PC160JT) is a high-quality tool that delivers excellent performance. The solid construction of this jointer provides stability and durability, ensuring that it can withstand heavy use. The sturdy materials used in its construction also contribute to its overall longevity.
Moreover, the precise and accurate cutting abilities of the PC160JT make it a reliable tool for achieving professional-level results. Its variable speed feature allows for versatility in handling different materials, while the two knife cutter head with a jack screw leveling arrangement ensures consistent and precise cuts.
The quality of the PC160JT is also reflected in its user-friendly design. The extra large table provides ample work support, making it easier to handle larger boards. The built-in cutter head lock simplifies knife replacement and adjustment, saving time and effort. Additionally, the jointer’s compact benchtop design makes it suitable for small workspaces.
- Variable speed: The PC160JT allows you to choose the right cutting speed for different materials, ensuring clean and accurate cuts.
- Easy knife replacement: The jack screw knife leveling arrangement makes it simple to replace and adjust the knives, improving performance and durability.
- Built-in cutter head lock: This feature facilitates knife replacement and adjustment, adding convenience and safety.
- Ample work support: The extra large table provides stability while handling stock up to 6 inches wide, making it easier to work with larger boards.
- User-friendly design: The compact benchtop design and intuitive controls make the PC160JT easy to use, even for beginners.
- Limited width capacity: The PC160JT has a maximum width capacity of 6 inches, which may restrict its use for wider boards.
- Dust collection: Some users have reported that the dust collection system could be more effective, requiring additional measures to manage the sawdust.
The PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, Variable Speed, 6-Inch (PC160JT) is a reliable and user-friendly tool that offers great flexibility and performance. Its variable speed feature, easy knife replacement, and ample work support make it suitable for a wide range of woodworking projects. Despite some limitations, the PC160JT is a quality jointer that can help you achieve precise and professional results in your woodworking endeavors.
6″ Benchtop Jointer with Spiral Cutterhead and GRR-RIP BLOCK Pushblock for Router Table, Jointer, and Band Saws by Shop Fox
The Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Spiral-Style Cutterhead & GRR-RIP BLOCK Smart Hook Pushblock for Router Table, Jointer, and Band Saws is primarily used for woodworking projects that involve creating straight and smooth edges on boards. Whether you are a professional carpenter or a hobbyist DIY enthusiast, this jointer can effectively square, flatten, and straighten your workpieces to achieve precise and accurate results.
At Shop Fox, they understand the needs of woodworkers and strive to provide high-quality products that enhance both safety and efficiency in the workshop. The Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer is no exception. We have found this jointer to be an excellent addition to any woodworking tool collection for several reasons.
One of the standout features of the Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer is its spiral-style cutterhead with 12 inserts. This design significantly reduces the noise levels typically associated with straight knife cutterheads, making your woodworking experience more enjoyable. Additionally, the spiral-style cutterhead provides a smoother finish on your workpieces, minimizing the need for sanding and reducing overall project time.
Safety is a top priority when operating any power tool, and the GRR-RIP BLOCK Smart Hook Pushblock included with this jointer ensures just that. The auto-retracting heel technology hooks the tail-end of your board, allowing for a secure grip and preventing kickback. The proprietary Green GRR-RIP provides extreme hold, keeping your hands at a safe distance from the cutterhead and minimizing the risk of accidents. Furthermore, the 90-degree flip guide allows for vertical footing on band saws and router tables, offering stability and control while working.
The Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer boasts an ergonomic handle that exerts directional pressure against the fence. This design feature allows for precise control and ensures accurate cuts. The jointer is also compact and lightweight, making it ideal for smaller workshops or for those who need a portable option. Additionally, the intuitive controls and easy setup make this jointer accessible to woodworkers of all skill levels.
The purpose of the Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer is to provide woodworkers with a reliable and efficient tool for achieving straight and smooth edges on their workpieces. Whether you need to square up stock for joinery or create chamfers or bevels, this jointer offers the functionality needed to accomplish these tasks with ease.
Key Features:
- Motor: 1-1/2 HP, 120V, Single-Phase, 10A
- Maximum width of cut: 6 in.
- Maximum depth of cut: 1/8 in.
- Cutterhead type: spiral-style with 12 inserts
- Auto-retracting heel technology hooks the tail-end of your board
- Proprietary Green GRR-RIP for extreme hold
- 90-degree flip guide for vertical footing on band saws and router tables
- Ergonomic handle exerts directional pressure against the fence
The combination of a powerful motor and a spiral-style cutterhead allows for efficient and precise material removal, ensuring optimal results in your woodworking projects. The GRR-RIP BLOCK Smart Hook Pushblock enhances safety by providing a secure grip and preventing kickback. The 90-degree flip guide and ergonomic handle contribute to the overall ease of use and control.
The Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer is a well-built and durable tool that is designed to withstand the demands of woodworking projects. The spiral-style cutterhead with 12 inserts not only ensures excellent cutting performance but also enhances the overall longevity of the jointer. The included GRR-RIP BLOCK Smart Hook Pushblock adds value to the product, as it is a versatile and essential safety accessory for any woodworker.
The jointer’s construction is sturdy and reliable, instilling confidence in its performance. The thoughtful design and attention to detail are evident throughout, making it evident that quality craftsmanship has gone into creating this tool.
- Spiral-style cutterhead for smoother finish
- GRR-RIP BLOCK Smart Hook Pushblock for enhanced safety
- Ergonomic handle for precise control
- Compact and lightweight design
- Durable construction
- Limited maximum width of cut (6 in.)
- Requires periodic maintenance and blade replacement for optimal performance
The Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Spiral-Style Cutterhead & GRR-RIP BLOCK Smart Hook Pushblock is a top-notch tool for achieving precise and smooth edges on your woodworking projects. With its superior cutterhead design, innovative safety features, and user-friendly design, this jointer is a valuable addition to any woodworking workshop. The overall quality and attention to detail make it a reliable tool that will serve you well for years to come.
RIKON Power Tools 6″ Benchtop Jointer
The RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head is a versatile tool that is primarily used for woodworking purposes. It is specifically designed to create flat and straight edges on a piece of lumber, resulting in precise and accurate joints. Whether you are a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, this jointer is perfect for smoothing rough stock and ensuring seamless connections in your woodworking projects.
We highly recommend the RIKON 20-600H Benchtop Jointer for several reasons. Firstly, its helical cutter head sets it apart from other jointers on the market. Instead of traditional straight blades, this jointer features a 6-row helical-style cutter head with 12 High-Speed Steel (HSS) insert cutters. This innovative design ensures super cutting action, allowing you to achieve outstanding results every time.
Secondly, this jointer boasts a powerful 10 AMP motor, providing high-speed operation that can tackle even the toughest wood materials with ease. The inclusion of high-speed steel insert knives enhances its cutting efficiency, guaranteeing smooth and professional finishes. The large 30″ x 6-3/16″ table provides ample space for maneuvering large pieces of wood, further enhancing its versatility and practicality.
Additionally, the RIKON 20-600H Benchtop Jointer is constructed with all-steel construction, ensuring durability and stability. The rigid and machined aluminum tables offer a sturdy platform for precise woodworking, while the quick depth setting mechanism with a scale allows for accurate and efficient adjustments. The adjustable fence, which can tilt from 90 degrees to 45 degrees, enables bevel cutting, making it suitable for a wide range of woodworking applications.
Lastly, this benchtop jointer prioritizes safety with its spring-loaded safety guard and front on/off switch. These features provide peace of mind and ensure that you can work safely and efficiently on your projects.
The RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head serves the purpose of creating flat and straight edges on pieces of wood, enabling precise and seamless joints. It is a reliable tool for woodworkers who strive for perfection and value efficiency in their projects.
This jointer is equipped with a 6-row helical-style cutter head that features 12 HSS insert cutters. This configuration guarantees exceptional cutting action, resulting in smooth and accurate edges on your stock. The high-speed steel insert knives further enhance the cutting performance, ensuring superior results every time.
The powerful 10 AMP motor of this benchtop jointer enables high-speed operation, making it suitable for handling various types of wood. The large 30″ x 6-3/16″ table provides ample space for maneuvering different-sized pieces of lumber, while the all-steel construction ensures the tool’s durability and stability.
The quick depth setting mechanism with a scale allows for precise adjustments, ensuring consistent and accurate cutting depths. The adjustable fence, which can tilt from 90 degrees to 45 degrees, adds versatility and functionality to this jointer. Whether you need to create beveled edges or straight joints, this tool has got you covered.
Safety is a top priority with the RIKON 20-600H Benchtop Jointer. The spring-loaded safety guard keeps you protected during operation, while the front on/off switch allows for convenient and immediate control over the tool’s functioning. These safety features contribute to a user-friendly and secure woodworking experience.
The RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head is a high-quality tool that delivers exceptional performance. Its all-steel construction, machined aluminum tables, and rigid design ensure long-lasting durability and stability. The inclusion of a powerful motor and high-speed steel insert knives further enhances the overall quality of this jointer, as it can effortlessly handle different types of wood and deliver superior cutting results.
Additionally, the quick depth setting mechanism with a scale adds to the ease of use and precision of this tool. The adjustable fence’s ability to tilt from 90 degrees to 45 degrees further contributes to its versatility and broadens its range of applications. Overall, the RIKON 20-600H Benchtop Jointer embodies excellent craftsmanship, making it a reliable and efficient tool for any woodworking project.
- 6-row helical-style cutter head with 12 HSS insert cutters for superior cutting action
- Powerful 10 AMP motor ensures high-speed operation
- Large 30″ x 6-3/16″ table provides ample space for maneuvering wood
- All-steel construction guarantees durability and stability
- Quick depth setting mechanism with a scale for precise adjustments
- Adjustable fence allows for bevel cutting, increasing versatility
- Spring-loaded safety guard and front on/off switch prioritize user safety
- The size and weight of the jointer may make it less portable compared to smaller models
- The cost of this jointer may be higher compared to other similar products on the market
The RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head is an excellent choice for woodworkers seeking precise and smooth edges on their stock. Its helical cutter head, powerful motor, and durable construction set it apart from other jointers. With its range of features and focus on safety, this benchtop jointer is a reliable and efficient tool for any woodworking project.
Comparison
PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, Variable Speed, 6-Inch (PC160JT)
- Motor: 1-1/2 HP, 120V, Single-Phase, 10A
- Maximum width of cut: 6 in.
- Maximum depth of cut: 1/8 in.
- Cutterhead type: spiral-style with 12 inserts
- Extra large table provides ample work support
- Built-in cutter head lock facilitates knife replacement and adjustment
Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Spiral-Style Cutterhead & GRR-RIP BLOCK Smart Hook Pushblock
- Auto-retracting heel technology hooks the tail-end of your board
- Proprietary Green GRR-RIP for extreme hold
- 90-degree flip guide for vertical footing on band saws and router tables
- Ergonomic handle exerts directional pressure against the fence
RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutter head
- 6 row helical-style cutter head with 12 HSS, 2-insert cutters
- High speed steel insert knives for super cutting action
- Large 30” x 6-3/16” table
- All-steel construction with machined aluminum tables
- Quick depth setting mechanism with scale
- Adjustable fence that tilts from 90 degrees to 45 degrees
- Spring-loaded safety guard and front on/off switch
Specifications Table
| Specification | PORTER-CABLE (PC160JT) | Shop Fox W1876 | RIKON Power Tools 20-600H |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motor | 1-1/2 HP, 120V | – | 10 AMP |
| Maximum width of cut | 6 in. | – | 6 in. |
| Maximum depth of cut | 1/8 in. | – | – |
| Cutterhead type | Spiral-style | Spiral-style with 12 inserts | 6 row helical-style with 12 HSS |
| Extra large table | Yes | – | – |
| Built-in cutter head lock | Yes | – | – |
| Auto-retracting heel technology | – | Yes | – |
| Proprietary Green GRR-RIP for extreme hold | – | Yes | – |
| 90-degree flip guide | – | Yes | – |
| Ergonomic handle | – | Yes | – |
| All-steel construction | – | – | Yes |
| Machined aluminum tables | – | – | Yes |
| Quick depth setting mechanism with scale | – | – | Yes |
| Adjustable fence that tilts from 90 degrees to 45 degrees | – | – | Yes |
| Spring-loaded safety guard and front on/off switch | – | – | Yes |
Note: “-” denotes that the respective specification is not mentioned in the product description.
Conclusion
PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer, Variable Speed, 6-Inch (PC160JT)
In conclusion, the PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer offers a variable speed feature, allowing you to adjust the cutting speed to suit your needs. This is a convenient and useful feature, especially if you work with different types of wood. The 6-inch width capacity is sufficient for most woodworking projects. The overall performance of this jointer is reliable and efficient. However, one drawback is the dust collection system, which could be more effective. Overall, if you are a beginner or a hobbyist woodworker looking for a reliable and affordable benchtop jointer, the PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer would be a suitable choice.
Shop Fox W1876 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Spiral-Style Cutterhead
The Shop Fox W1876 Benchtop Jointer stands out with its spiral-style cutterhead, which provides a cleaner and smoother cut. This is a great advantage if you prioritize the quality of your woodworking projects. The 6-inch width capacity is sufficient for most tasks, and the overall build quality of this jointer is solid. However, considering the high cost of this jointer, it may not be the best option for budget-conscious woodworkers. Additionally, the setup process could be a bit time-consuming. If you are a professional woodworker or someone who values precision and quality cuts, the Shop Fox W1876 Benchtop Jointer would be an excellent choice.
RIKON Power Tools 20-600H 6″ Benchtop Jointer with Helical Cutterhead
The RIKON Power Tools 20-600H Benchtop Jointer stands out with its helical cutterhead, which provides excellent cutting performance with reduced noise and tear-out. This is a significant advantage for woodworkers who value clean and smooth cuts. The 6-inch width capacity is suitable for most woodworking projects, and the overall build quality of this jointer is impressive. However, one drawback is the higher price compared to other benchtop jointers on the market. If you are a professional woodworker or a serious hobbyist who values precision and smooth cuts, the RIKON Power Tools 20-600H Benchtop Jointer would be a worthwhile investment.
Recommendation
For beginners or hobbyist woodworkers looking for a reliable and affordable option, the PORTER-CABLE Benchtop Jointer would be a suitable choice. If you prioritize precision and quality cuts and don’t mind the higher cost, the Shop Fox W1876 Benchtop Jointer would be an excellent option. Lastly, for woodworkers who value clean and smooth cuts and are willing to invest in a high-quality jointer, the RIKON Power Tools 20-600H Benchtop Jointer would be a worthwhile investment. Consider your needs, budget, and the level of precision you require when making your decision. Happy woodworking!
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