DeWalt Thickness Planer

A thickness planer is an essential tool for any woodworker looking to achieve a uniform thickness across their boards. The DeWalt DW734 thickness planer promises a smooth finish and precise cuts, making it a compelling option for both hobbyists and professionals. Having spent considerable time with this tool, I have gathered some insights that might help you decide if it’s the right fit for your workshop.

Setup and Initial Impressions

Setting up the DeWalt DW734 was relatively straightforward. Straight out of the box, the machine came well-packaged with all necessary parts, including the dust hood and adjustment handle. The assembly was intuitive and took me about 15 minutes, even without prior experience with planers. The machine is quite heavy, weighing around 80 pounds, so you might need a second pair of hands to lift it onto your workbench.

Build Quality and Design

The DW734 feels robust and well-constructed. The four-column carriage lock system minimizes any movement during operation, which is crucial for achieving consistent results. The three-knife cutter head, which operates at a high speed of 10,000 RPM, promises a smooth finish, and the knives are disposable and reversible, making maintenance a breeze.

The infeed and outfeed tables are longer than many other models in this class, providing better material support and reducing the chances of snipe. However, the dust collection system leaves much to be desired. Even with a shop vac attached, the dust hood tends to clog, resulting in chips and sawdust spewing out. This makes cleanup a bit of a chore and can be frustrating if you’re working in a confined space.

Performance

Once set up, the DW734 performed admirably. The 15-amp motor handled hardwoods like oak and maple without breaking a sweat. The material removal gauge and thickness scale are accurate, allowing for precise adjustments. I particularly appreciated the turret depth stop, which lets you return to commonly used settings quickly.

Running various types of wood through the planer, I found that it produced a remarkably smooth finish. The three-knife cutter head makes a significant difference compared to two-knife models, delivering a finer cut with fewer passes. However, it's worth noting that the knives tend to dull relatively quickly, especially when working with harder woods. Replacing or sharpening the blades frequently can add to the overall cost of ownership.

Issues and Drawbacks

While the DW734 excels in many areas, it’s not without its flaws. The most glaring issue is the dust collection system, which can be a deal-breaker for some. The dust hood clogs easily, and even a powerful shop vac struggles to keep up. This not only creates a mess but can also impact the machine’s performance if not addressed promptly.

Another issue I encountered was the need to assist the wood through the planer, especially with larger or thicker boards. The feed rollers occasionally struggled to pull the stock through, which required me to push the material manually. This can be risky and is something to be mindful of.

Durability and Longevity

The DW734 appears to be built to last, but there are some concerns regarding its long-term durability. Some users have reported issues with the feed rollers and cutter head alignment over time. Additionally, the motor tends to run hot, which could affect its longevity if used extensively. Regular maintenance, such as lubricating the posts and keeping the deck surfaces clean, is essential to ensure the planer remains in good working condition.

Final Thoughts

The DeWalt DW734 thickness planer offers a lot of value for its price. Its robust build, high-speed cutter head, and accurate depth adjustments make it a strong contender in its category. However, the dust collection issues and the need for frequent blade replacements are notable drawbacks.

Would I recommend the DeWalt DW734? Yes, but with reservations. If you have a proper dust collection system and are willing to invest in maintaining the blades, this planer can be a fantastic addition to your workshop. It delivers on its promise of a smooth finish and precise cuts, making it suitable for both hobbyists and professionals. However, if dust management is a critical factor for you or if you’re looking for a planer that requires minimal maintenance, you might want to consider other options.