Good Jointer/Planer combo suggestions for ~$600?

[RyFitz13]

Anyone out there have suggestions for a good jointer and planer that would come in under $600 for both pieces?

I've been assigned this budget by SWMBO, and I'm trying to decide whether I can squeeze in a good-quality planer and jointer, or if I should be looking at other ideas instead.

Also - if you could have only one of these tools, which would you go for? Most of the work I do is on the small-ish scale, though I'll be working on some cabinetry for a bathroom over the coming winter.

[crokett]

I don't think you are going to find a set new for that price. Used would be your best bet if you want both tools.
I had to pick one tool over the other and went for the jointer first. In addition to jointing lumber it is more versatile - rabbets, tapers, etc. In a pinch you can thickness plane though not as conveniently as you can with a planer.

[eddy merckx]

I agree with Crockett. You could get a used Dewalt or Ridgid planer for around $200 on Craigslist. You could probably find a used 6" x 46ish" jointer for $200-$300. Good names are Jet, Grizzly or Ridgid. You can even get one of the Taiwanese Harbor freight clones for around $200 new on sale. They aren't too bad. Just don't get a benchtop jointer. You'll outgrow it really quickly.

Eddy

[jspelbring]

Jp

For under $600?

[IMG]file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/spelbringj/Local%20Settings/Temp/moz-screenshot.jpg[/IMG]http://www.lie-nielsen.com/catalog.php?sku=8#

Seriously though, I'm looking for the same thing. I'm saving my pennies (and dollars) for this:

http://www.grizzly.com/products/G0633

It'll be awhile though.

[LCHIEN]

I'm not sure if you understand the tool types that well and are talking about a jointer-planer ANd a THickness planer which are two tools or just the jointer-planer which is really one tool but both joints (straight thin edge suitable for maker larger boards from individual boards, but which can also flatten the face of such a board (which is why its called a jointer-planer) but is not a thickness planer.

You can get both from some real discount/low cost hardware dealers for $600 total
but a servicable JOinter-planer will be about $350 and a serviceable Thickness planer is around $350. If you watch sales/rebates/deals you may get both for under $300 each if you want a good one but can choose between name brands like delta/ridgid/ryobi etc. but no demand a specific brand

For example I think both the Delta JT360 jointer planer at $370 Amazon and the Delta TP400LS (Thickness planer ) ($370 at Amazon)are both quite servicable units and are close enough that if you are patient, you can get them for under $300 each (about 25% off); took me a while but I got a JT360 for $260.

The TP300 is only $309 but lacks cutterhead lock.

[eweu]

It can be done with some sleuthing and good luck. Earlier this year I got the Makita 2012NB from Amazon for $280. I also got the Craftsman benchtop jointer on sale for under $200 (I don't recall exactly). Both of those items are around $500 and $250 respectively for the "regular" prices.

The Makita is very good. I haven't found any reason to complain. I got the optional dust hood and find that it's pretty clean to operate.

The Craftsman is a re-badged Palmgren as far as I can tell. I got it based on reviews of the Palmgren and, despite its size, it's really quite a performer. I didn't have to adjust anything out of the box and it's dead perfect. Longer beds are always good for a jointer, but for my space constraints it's a good fit.

I also think the advice for looking for a used tool is good. Just be patient.

[RagerXS]

I suggest holding out for the Christmas sales. Got my Ridgid jointer and Ridgid planer during 20% off sales before Christmas in years past. At 10% off and $350 each you are only $40 over budget anyway, and the 10% off can be had in short order anyway from either HD or Lowes (and they will match).

~ Fred

[kirkroy]

I've also got the Craftsman benchtop, which I got on sale for about $180. Doing boards up to 3' works but is pushing it for my skill level (beginner). I would really like something bigger and regret not getting a bigger one from the get go.

[Garasaki]

Learn how these tools work then buy used.

You could easily be into a 8" jointer and a lunchbox planer with that budget if you have the luxary of time to land a good deal.

[messmaker]

A new Harbor Freight jointer and a Ridgid planer will run under $600 and do just fine.