How to eliminate snipe on a jointer

Harrison Clayton December 9, 2023

Snipe is a frustrating issue that every woodworker using a jointer has encountered at some point. Snipe occurs when the jointer cuts slightly deeper at the beginning or end of a workpiece, resulting in a noticeable groove or depression. It can ruin an otherwise perfect piece of wood and requires additional time and effort to fix. Fortunately, there are a few techniques you can implement to eliminate snipe and achieve smooth, consistent cuts on your jointer.

First, it’s important to understand the causes of snipe. Snipe is typically caused by a combination of factors, including the design and adjustment of the jointer, the type and condition of the workpiece, and the feeding technique. One common cause is improper alignment of the infeed and outfeed tables, which can create a gap where the snipe occurs. Other causes include excessive pressure on the workpiece during feeding and improper technique when lifting the workpiece off the outfeed table.

To eliminate snipe, start by ensuring proper alignment of the infeed and outfeed tables. Use a straightedge or a precision straightedge to check for any gaps or misalignment. Adjust the tables accordingly until they are perfectly aligned. Additionally, make sure the jointer blades are properly aligned and sharpened to ensure smooth, consistent cuts without any snipe. If the blades are dull or damaged, replace them to achieve the best results.

Another technique that can help eliminate snipe is to use a sacrificial board. This involves placing a longer piece of scrap wood before and after the workpiece, effectively creating support and preventing the jointer from cutting too deeply at the beginning or end. The sacrificial board should be the same thickness as the workpiece and should extend beyond the ends. This technique helps distribute the cutting force evenly and reduces the chances of snipe.

What is snipe?

Snipe is a common issue that woodworkers encounter when using a jointer. It refers to a slight dip or groove that occurs at the beginning or end of a board after it has been passed through the jointer.

When using a jointer, the wood is fed into the machine and the cutter head removes material from the surface of the board to create a smooth and flat surface. However, snipe can occur when the pressure from the feed rollers at the beginning and end of the board cause the wood to lift slightly, resulting in an uneven cut.

Snipe can be frustrating and can ruin the quality of your project. It can be especially problematic when working with longer boards, as the snipe can be more pronounced at the ends.

Causes of snipe

There are several factors that can contribute to the occurrence of snipe on a jointer:

Poorly adjusted feed rollers: If the feed rollers are not properly aligned or tightened, they may not provide enough pressure to hold the board securely, resulting in snipe.
Inconsistent pressure: Applying inconsistent pressure when feeding the board into the jointer can lead to snipe. It is important to maintain a steady and even pressure throughout the entire cut.
Misalignment of the cutter head: If the cutter head is not perfectly aligned with the outfeed table, it can cause snipe. This can be corrected by adjusting the height and alignment of the cutter head.
Feed rate: Feeding the board too quickly or too slowly can also contribute to snipe. Finding the correct feed rate for your specific jointer is important to minimize snipe.

It is important to identify the cause of snipe in order to eliminate it and achieve smooth and consistent cuts on your jointer.

Methods to eliminate snipe

1. Adjust the infeed and outfeed tables:

Adjusting the infeed and outfeed tables

One of the key factors in eliminating snipe on a jointer is properly adjusting the infeed and outfeed tables. Snipe occurs when the end of a board dips or rises slightly as it passes through the jointer, resulting in an uneven cut. Here are the steps to adjust the tables and minimize snipe:

Begin by disconnecting the jointer from its power source for safety.
Using a straight edge or level, check the alignment of the infeed and outfeed tables. They should be perfectly parallel to each other and level. If adjustments are needed, refer to the jointer’s manual for specific instructions on how to adjust them.
Next, adjust the height of the infeed and outfeed tables to ensure they are level with each other. Snipe can occur if one table is slightly higher or lower than the other. Most jointers have knobs or levers that can be used to make these adjustments. Again, consult the manual if needed.
Once the tables are aligned and leveled, reattach the power source and turn on the jointer.
Feed a sacrificial board through the jointer, applying even pressure and keeping it flat against the tables. This will help to further adjust the tables and ensure they are working properly.
Continuously check the jointer’s cut to see if snipe is still present. If snipe occurs at the beginning or end of the board, adjust the table heights slightly until the snipe is eliminated.

By carefully adjusting the infeed and outfeed tables on your jointer, you can significantly reduce or even eliminate snipe. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take necessary safety precautions when working with power tools.

Using sacrificial boards

If you are experiencing snipe on your jointer, one effective technique to eliminate it is by using sacrificial boards. This method involves placing an additional board or boards on either end of the workpiece to help support it as it passes over the cutterhead.

Here are the steps to follow when using sacrificial boards:

Start by preparing your workpiece and sacrificial boards. The sacrificial boards should be the same thickness as your workpiece and should extend the full length of the jointer table.
Make sure the jointer is properly set up and the fence is square to the table.
Place the sacrificial boards on either end of the workpiece, making sure they are securely clamped or held in place. The sacrificial boards should be slightly wider than the workpiece to ensure sufficient support.
Feed the workpiece onto the jointer, keeping it pressed against the sacrificial boards as you pass it over the cutterhead. This will help eliminate any snipe that may occur when the workpiece enters or exits the cutterhead.
Continue feeding the workpiece through the jointer, making sure to maintain even pressure and contact with the sacrificial boards.
Once the workpiece has been fully jointed, remove it from the jointer, taking care not to disturb the sacrificial boards.

Using sacrificial boards can greatly reduce or eliminate snipe on a jointer. It provides additional support to the workpiece, preventing it from lifting or dipping as it passes over the cutterhead. This method is simple and cost-effective, making it an excellent solution for reducing snipe and achieving smooth, clean jointing results.

Supporting the workpiece

One of the main causes of snipe on a jointer is an unsupported workpiece. When the workpiece is not properly supported, it can shift or lift as it passes through the jointer, leading to uneven cuts and snipe at the ends.

To eliminate snipe, it is important to provide adequate support for the workpiece throughout the entire cutting process. Here are some tips to help you support the workpiece:

Use infeed and outfeed tables: Many jointers come with built-in infeed and outfeed tables that provide continuous support for the workpiece. Make sure these tables are properly adjusted and aligned with the cutterhead to ensure smooth and even cuts.
Use additional supports: For longer workpieces or when using a jointer without infeed and outfeed tables, it can be helpful to use additional supports. This can include roller stands, sawhorses, or even improvised supports made from scrap wood. Just make sure the supports are stable and aligned with the jointer table.
Apply downward pressure: Supporting the workpiece from above can also help reduce snipe. Using your hands or a featherboard, apply gentle downward pressure on the workpiece as it passes through the jointer. This helps keep the workpiece flat against the table and prevents it from lifting during the cut.

By properly supporting the workpiece, you can significantly reduce snipe and achieve smooth, even cuts on your jointer. Take the time to set up the necessary supports and make adjustments as needed for each project to ensure the best results.

Best practices to prevent snipe

Snipe, an unwanted and uneven dip that occurs at the beginning or end of a piece of lumber when using a jointer, can be frustrating and can ruin the overall quality of your project. Fortunately, there are some best practices you can follow to minimize or eliminate snipe when using a jointer.

1. Properly setup your jointer

One of the main reasons why snipe may occur is due to an improperly set up jointer. Ensure that the infeed and outfeed tables are parallel to each other and level. The knives on the cutterhead should also be set up correctly, ensuring they are level and properly aligned. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific jointer model to ensure proper setup.

2. Use proper feeding techniques

The way you feed your stock into the jointer can also impact the presence of snipe. It is recommended to use a sacrificial board at the beginning and end of your stock to help minimize snipe. This sacrificial board absorbs any uneven pressure and helps to create an even feed rate, reducing the chances of snipe occurring.

When feeding your stock into the jointer, apply consistent and even pressure, and maintain a steady feed rate throughout the entire process. Avoid sudden or jerky movements that can cause the stock to lift or dip, leading to snipe.

3. Properly support long stock

If you are working with longer stock, additional support can help reduce the occurrence of snipe. Use roller stands or additional tables to support the infeed and outfeed ends of the stock. This helps to maintain a consistent and level feed throughout the jointing process, minimizing snipe.

By following these best practices, you can greatly reduce or eliminate snipe when using a jointer. Remember to always work safely and carefully when operating any woodworking machinery.

FAQ

What is snipe on a jointer and why does it occur?

Snipe on a jointer refers to a common issue where the board being planed jumps slightly at both ends, resulting in an uneven cut. It occurs due to a combination of factors including the board’s weight distribution, the downward pressure applied by the jointer’s infeed and outfeed rollers, and the setup of the machine.

How can I prevent snipe on my jointer?

There are several steps you can take to minimize snipe on a jointer. Firstly, make sure the jointer is properly calibrated and adjusted. This includes ensuring that the infeed and outfeed tables are aligned properly and that the knives are properly set. Additionally, you can try supporting the ends of the board with additional rollers or using an auxiliary bed to distribute the weight more evenly. Finally, taking light cuts or feeding the board at an angle can also help reduce snipe.

Is there a specific way to set up the jointer to eliminate snipe?

Yes, there are specific steps you can follow to set up a jointer and minimize snipe. Firstly, you should check and adjust the alignment of the infeed and outfeed tables to ensure they are parallel. Next, you should set the knives so that they are level with the outfeed table. The depth of cut should then be adjusted to the desired thickness. Additionally, make sure that the pressure from the infeed and outfeed rollers is properly balanced to prevent excessive snipe.

Are there any alternative methods to eliminate snipe on a jointer?

Yes, there are alternative methods you can try to eliminate snipe on a jointer. One method is to use sacrificial boards at the beginning and end of the cut. These boards help distribute the pressure and reduce snipe on the actual workpiece. Another method is to use a backer board, which is a piece of wood placed behind the workpiece to provide support and stability. Alternatively, some woodworkers prefer to leave extra length on the workpiece and then cut off the sniped ends after planing.

Harrison Clayton

Meet Harrison Clayton, a distinguished author and home remodeling enthusiast whose expertise in the realm of renovation is second to none. With a passion for transforming houses into inviting homes, Harrison's writing at https://thehuts-eastbourne.co.uk/ brings a breath of fresh inspiration to the world of home improvement. Whether you're looking to revamp a small corner of your abode or embark on a complete home transformation, Harrison's articles provide the essential expertise and creative flair to turn your visions into reality. So, dive into the captivating world of home remodeling with Harrison Clayton and unlock the full potential of your living space with every word he writes.