Craftsman Electric Benchtop Thickness Planer

As a woodworker, having the right tools can make all the difference in the world. Recently, I had the opportunity to work with the Craftsman Electric Benchtop Thickness Planer (model CMEW320), and I must say, it has left a significant impression on me.

First Impressions and Setup

The first thing I noticed about this planer is its solid build quality. Weighing in at 61.8 pounds, it's a hefty piece of equipment, but that weight translates into stability during operation—a crucial factor for achieving smooth, even cuts. The setup was straightforward, thanks to clear and concise instructions. However, I did find the diagrams and text a bit small, which could be an issue for some users. Once assembled, the planer felt robust, with minimal plastic components, which is always a good sign of durability.

Performance and Features

The Craftsman planer is powered by a 15 Amp motor, delivering an impressive 8,000 RPM cutter head speed, resulting in 16,000 cuts per minute. This power is more than adequate for both softwoods like pine and hardwoods like oak. During my tests, I found the planer to handle various wood types with ease, provided I adjusted the depth of cut appropriately. For harder woods, thinner passes were necessary to prevent overloading the motor and ensuring a smooth finish.

One of the standout features of this planer is its two-knife, quick-change solid steel cutter head. The high carbon steel knives are reversible, extending their cutting life and making maintenance straightforward. Changing the knives was a breeze, although I did wish for a locking mechanism to prevent the cutting head from rotating during the process.

Usability and Adjustments

In terms of usability, the planer is quite user-friendly. The height adjustment handle is easy to operate, although it does have a bit more play than I would prefer. Setting the infeed and outfeed tables to be level with the main table took some time, but once done, it significantly reduced snipe—a common issue with benchtop planers.

Speaking of snipe, while it was present in the last few inches of the boards, it was manageable with proper setup and additional support for longer pieces. I found that using roller stands or a simple outfeed support system helped mitigate this issue. For most DIY projects, the snipe was minor and could be easily sanded out.

Dust Collection and Workspace Cleanliness

One area where the Craftsman planer could use improvement is its dust collection system. The dust port is designed to improve workspace cleanliness, but it could benefit from being made of metal rather than plastic. Additionally, the dust chute faces the side, which can interfere with the outfeed table when folded up. Connecting a shop vac to the dust port helped keep the workspace relatively clean, but I did experience occasional clogs, especially with larger wood shavings.

Real-World Application

During my time with the planer, I used it on a variety of projects, from planing rough sawn cedar to refurbishing aged deck boards. In all cases, the planer performed admirably, delivering smooth, even surfaces ready for further finishing. The variable speed settings allowed for greater control, especially when working with different wood types and thicknesses.

However, it's worth noting that the planer does have its limitations. For large-scale or heavy-duty projects, a more powerful and feature-rich model might be necessary. The Craftsman planer is best suited for hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, and light to moderate woodworking tasks. Its compact size and relatively low price point make it an attractive option for those who need a reliable planer without breaking the bank.

Durability and Longevity

Durability is always a concern with any tool, and the Craftsman planer is no exception. While it feels solid and well-built, some users have reported issues with the quality of bolts and screws, which can strip easily. In my experience, being mindful of how much force you apply and using the correct tools can mitigate these issues. Additionally, the planer comes with a 3-year limited warranty, providing some peace of mind regarding its longevity.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Craftsman Electric Benchtop Thickness Planer (model CMEW320) is a solid, dependable tool for the price. It offers excellent performance for its class, with a powerful motor, high-quality cutter head, and user-friendly features. While it does have some minor drawbacks, such as the dust collection system and occasional snipe, these are manageable with proper setup and use.

I would recommend this planer to hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a reliable, entry-level thickness planer. It's a great addition to any workshop, providing the capability to transform rough lumber into smooth, ready-to-use boards. For those with more demanding needs, investing in a higher-end model might be worth considering, but for most casual woodworkers, the Craftsman planer is a fantastic choice.