DeWalt 13 in. 3-knife two-speed thickness planer

A thickness planer is an essential addition to any woodworking shop, and finding one that balances performance, durability, and ease of use can be challenging. Enter the DeWalt DW735X, a robust and versatile machine that promises to deliver on all fronts. After putting this planer through its paces, I can confidently share my insights on its performance, features, and overall value.

The first thing that struck me about the DeWalt planer was its sturdy build. Weighing in at a hefty 92 pounds, this is not a lightweight tool, and that’s a good thing. The 19-3/4 inch cast aluminum base provides a stable foundation, minimizing vibrations and ensuring a smooth operation. This stability is crucial when working with wider materials, and the DeWalt delivers in this regard.

Setting up the planer was straightforward, thanks to the clear instruction manual. The extra-large turret depth stop is a thoughtful addition, making it easy to return to frequently used thicknesses. The material removal gauge and large thickness scale are also user-friendly features that enhance accuracy. As someone who values precision in woodworking, these features were much appreciated.

One of the standout features of this planer is the three-knife cutter head. This design not only extends the life of the knives but also simplifies the knife-changing process. The cutter head operates at a speed of 10,000 rpm, powered by a robust 15-amp motor. This combination ensures effective cutting, even with harder woods. During my testing, I found that the planer handled walnut and cherry with ease, leaving a smooth finish that required minimal sanding.

The two-speed gear box is another noteworthy feature. It allows you to optimize your cuts at either 96 or 179 cuts per inch, depending on the material and desired finish. This flexibility is a significant advantage, especially when working on different types of wood. I found the higher speed setting particularly useful for achieving a finer finish on softer woods.

Dust management is a crucial aspect of any planer, and the DeWalt planer excels in this area with its fan-assisted chip ejection system. The fan is powerful enough to direct debris into a dust collection system, keeping the workspace clean. However, I would recommend using a 4-inch dust collector rather than a standard shop vac, as the latter can quickly become overwhelmed. The positioning of the chip exhaust port and the power cord on the back of the planer could be better, as they can get in the way of the board exit path. Securing these components out of the way is a minor inconvenience but worth noting.

One of the most common issues with planers is snipe, where the ends of the boards are cut deeper than the middle. The DeWalt planer addresses this with an automatic carriage lock, which significantly minimizes snipe. In my experience, the planer performed admirably in this regard, especially when using the optional infeed and outfeed tables. These tables provide additional support for longer boards, further reducing the likelihood of snipe.

While the planer is packed with features, it’s not without its drawbacks. The plastic impeller for dust removal is a weak point, as it can wear out over time, leading to increased noise and reduced efficiency. Replacing the impeller can be a challenging task, and I would have preferred a more durable material for this component. Additionally, the planer is quite noisy, especially when both the motor and dust collection system are running. Investing in a good pair of ear protectors is highly recommended.

Despite these minor issues, the DeWalt planer offers excellent value for its price. It’s a versatile machine that can handle a variety of woodworking projects, from small hobbyist tasks to more substantial work. The ease of use, combined with its powerful performance, makes it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced woodworkers.

In conclusion, I would highly recommend the DeWalt DW735X thickness planer. Its robust build, user-friendly features, and impressive cutting capabilities make it a standout tool in its category. While it has a few minor flaws, they are far outweighed by its strengths. If you’re in the market for a reliable and efficient thickness planer, the DeWalt is a solid investment that will serve you well for years to come.