Craftsman Planer model #21758?

[RJD2]

Does anyone own or have info on a Craftsman 12-1/2 in. Thickness Planer/ model #21758? It is currently on sale, and might suit my needs without spending $200-$300 more on a Dewalt. Thanks.

http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?cat=Bench+Power+Tools&pid=00921758000&vertical=TOOL&subcat=Jointers%2C+Planers+%26+Shapers&BV_UseBVCookie=Yes

Ron

[Uncle Cracker]

It's very similar to the current Ryobi AP1301 (a stripped-down step back from the more popular AP1300). It's a bare bones planer that is more useful for roughing out lumber, and then finishing with some other equipment. I think the biggest deficiency is the lack of a cutter head lock.

[ragswl4]

It's very similar to the current Ryobi AP1301 (a stripped-down step back from the more popular AP1300). It's a bare bones planer that is more useful for roughing out lumber, and then finishing with some other equipment. I think the biggest deficiency is the lack of a cutter head lock.

I just went through the planer drill. I agree, I would not buy a planer without a cutter head lock. I had a Grizzly 12 1/2" planer without cutter head lock and could never get rid of the 2" snipe on each end of the board. Bought a used Dewalt 733 with a cutter head lock, absolutely no snipe and the wood is planed much, much better. I would pass on the Craftsman, just my opinion. I found my Dewalt on CraigsList.

[LCHIEN]

no cutter head lock = no bargain

[bthere]

My previous benchtop planer had no cutter lock. With that one, anything but the shortest stock always had snipe. If your projects and budget are such that you are willing to sacrifice 4 to 6 inches of your board and can plan around that, then it might be worth it. Otherwise, it is great to go up a step and get the better results.

[kirkroy]

Does the ap1300 have a cutterhead lock? There's a "like new" one on craigslist for $200 with stand and wheel kit.

[burrellski]

Does the ap1300 have a cutterhead lock? There's a "like new" one on craigslist for $200 with stand and wheel kit.

The AP1300 has a cutterhead lock and is generally regarded as a good budget planer. I have one and am very happy with it. I purchased it new at home depot about 1 year ago for $200.