Milwaukee 3-1/4" Planer

The Milwaukee 3-1/4" Planer (model 2623-20) has been a recent addition to my woodworking toolkit, and it certainly brings a mix of strengths and shortcomings that are worth discussing. As someone who frequently works with both soft and hardwoods, I was eager to see how this cordless powerhouse would perform in real-world applications.

Design and Build Quality

First impressions matter, and the Milwaukee Planer does not disappoint in the looks department. It's a robust, well-designed tool that feels solid in hand. The weight of 6.15 lbs is well-balanced, which provides a good mix of portability and stability during use. The ergonomics are excellent, with a comfortable grip that makes extended use less fatiguing.

The depth adjustment dial, featuring 20 locking positions, is a standout feature that allows for precise control over material removal. However, I did find that the zero setting wasn’t entirely accurate. Even at the zero depth setting, the planer removed a noticeable amount of material, which can be problematic for fine-tuning and delicate work.

Performance

The motor is undeniably powerful, capable of efficiently removing material in a single pass. This makes it an excellent choice for tasks like trimming doors or smoothing rough surfaces. However, the motor's power doesn't seem to translate into battery efficiency. Even with a 6.0 AH battery, the tool drains power quickly, which means frequent battery swaps if you're working on larger projects.

One of the tool’s most praised features is the dual blade cutting head, which indeed provides a smooth finish. The blades are sharp and durable, handling even harder woods without showing signs of wear. However, the lack of blade adjustment options is a significant drawback. The inability to square the blades or adjust the front and rear shoes can lead to uneven cuts, which is especially frustrating when precision is crucial.

Usability

The planer is user-friendly in many respects. The spring-loaded kickstand is a thoughtful addition, protecting finished surfaces from accidental damage when the tool is set down. The chip ejection switch, which allows for left or right exhaust, is another handy feature, particularly when working in confined spaces. However, I did encounter frequent clogging issues with the debris ports. Without an extractor, the ports clog easily, and even with an extractor, the issue is not entirely mitigated.

Practical Applications

In practical use, the Milwaukee Planer excels in straightforward tasks like leveling joists or skimming paint off old boards. The tool's power and ease of use make quick work of these jobs. However, for more precise tasks, such as fine woodworking or detailed carpentry, the tool's limitations become apparent. The misalignment of the front and rear shoes, combined with the inaccurate zero setting, makes it challenging to achieve the level of precision required for high-quality finishes.

Durability and Maintenance

Durability is generally a strong suit for Milwaukee tools, and this planer is no exception. The build quality is robust, and the tool feels like it can withstand heavy use. However, the soft aluminum shoe surface is prone to scratches and dents, which can affect the tool's performance over time. Maintenance is straightforward, but the frequent need to unclog the debris ports can be a time-consuming nuisance.

Battery Life

Battery life is a mixed bag. While the tool is part of the M18 platform, which is known for its battery efficiency, the planer seems to consume power at an alarming rate. For small to medium-sized jobs, a 3.0 AH battery might suffice, but for larger projects, you'll need multiple batteries and possibly even a second charger to keep up with the demand.

Conclusion

The Milwaukee 3-1/4" Planer is a tool that brings a lot to the table but also leaves room for improvement. Its powerful motor, user-friendly design, and smooth cutting action make it a valuable addition to any toolkit, particularly for those who already own other M18 tools. However, the issues with depth accuracy, shoe alignment, and frequent clogging cannot be overlooked.

Would I recommend this tool? It depends on your needs. For general carpentry and tasks that don’t require extreme precision, this planer performs admirably. Its cordless design and powerful motor make it a convenient and efficient option for many jobs. However, if you require a planer for fine woodworking or precision tasks, the limitations of this tool may prove too frustrating.

In summary, the Milwaukee 3-1/4" Planer is a solid tool with notable strengths but also some significant weaknesses. It's a good fit for general use but may not meet the demands of more detailed, high-precision work.