Thoughts on Parallelogram Jointer

[Jeffrey Schronce]

Grizzly G0490 seems like a killer value at $750. 8" w 3hp and Parallelogram beds. Only thing is that it does not have a spiral cutter head option in lieu of 4 blade HSS which means I would have to buy it seperate w/ no discount for giving up the HSS knives. G0490 also has built in mobile base. A index spiral cutterhead is $375 bringing total to $1175.

The G0593 does not have parallelogram beds but does have spiral cutterhead. It only has 2hp motor and is $995.

I also realize I may run into issues of backorder for the G0490, as great value Grizzly items seem to be on backorder for months.

Is the Parallelogram bed worth it? Certainly less important than the spiral index cutter?

[LarryG]

When FWW tested a batch of 8" jointers, they said (quoting from memory here, so not exact) that for a small, hobbyist shop, a spiral cutterhead doesn't offer any significant advantage. In effect they advised, "Spend your money on something else." FWIW.

[Jeffrey Schronce]

Interesting. I would think that set up and ongoing upkeep would be much easier. The thought of pulling the knives, having them sharpened, reset, etc just seemed like index would be the way to go.
Question : How many board feet should I expect to edge and face joint prior to needing replace/sharpen? Or is that too broad of a question? I will add that it will be 90% hardwood including fair amount of imported hardwoods.

[jnesmith]

When FWW tested a batch of 8" jointers, they said (quoting from memory here, so not exact) that for a small, hobbyist shop, a spiral cutterhead doesn't offer any significant advantage. In effect they advised, "Spend your money on something else." FWIW.

I read the review and my recollection is similar. As I recall, the spirals did not excel in cut quailty as much as I would have expected. In fact, under certain conditions, straight knives cut better.

[Holbren]

Most people I've spoken to like the spiral cutter head for figured woods. Some also put a 10 deg. back bevel on their straight knives like David Marks does.

Advantages I see of the indexable spiral heads, not the twisted HSS knives are:

carbide inserts stay sharp longer
easier to change/rotate when dull
better for figured woods

Downside is obviously the cost.

My suggestion would be to not worry about the spiral and add it when you need it. Byrd is supposed to make the best head and they are not much more than the upgrade from Grizz. I'm not sure about machine support though.