Best Handheld Power Planer

When it comes to woodworking projects, having a reliable handheld power planer is essential. Whether you are a professional carpenter or a DIY enthusiast, a power planer can help you achieve smooth and precise cuts on various types of wood. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best handheld power planer for your needs.

There are several factors to consider when selecting a handheld power planer, including its power, cutting depth, safety features, and versatility. You want a planer that is powerful enough to handle tough materials but also lightweight and easy to maneuver. Additionally, it should have adjustable cutting depth settings to accommodate different woodworking projects. Safety features such as a lock-off button and a chip ejection system are crucial for preventing accidents. Lastly, a versatile power planer allows you to tackle a wide range of projects, including planing doors, leveling wooden surfaces, and chamfering edges.

In this article, we will review some of the best handheld power planers currently available on the market. We will evaluate their features, performance, and user feedback to help you make an informed decision. Whether you need a power planer for professional use or occasional DIY projects, we have selected a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. Join us as we explore the top contenders and find the best handheld power planer for you.

What is a Handheld Power Planer and Why Do You Need One?

A handheld power planer is a versatile tool that is designed to smooth and shape wood surfaces. It has a flat cutting blade that rotates rapidly, allowing you to remove layers of wood with ease. Unlike a traditional hand plane, a handheld power planer is motorized, making it much quicker and more efficient to use.

There are many reasons why you might need a handheld power planer in your toolkit. Firstly, it is a valuable tool for any woodworking project that involves shaping, such as building furniture or refinishing wood floors. It can quickly and easily take off large amounts of wood, allowing you to create smooth and even surfaces. Additionally, a handheld power planer is great for tasks such as trimming doors to fit properly, chamfering edges, or beveling corners.

  • A handheld power planer is also useful for fixing and repairing wooden surfaces. It can be used to remove paint, varnish, or other finishes that have become damaged or worn over time.
  • Furthermore, a handheld power planer is an excellent tool for leveling uneven surfaces. It can be used to remove high spots or bumps, ensuring that your woodworking project is perfectly flat and flush.
  • Overall, a handheld power planer is a must-have tool for any serious woodworker or DIY enthusiast. Its versatility and efficiency make it a valuable addition to your workshop.

Key Features to Look for in a Handheld Power Planer

When choosing a handheld power planer, there are several key features to consider in order to ensure that you are getting the best tool for your needs. These features will not only affect the performance and efficiency of the planer, but also determine how well it can handle various tasks and materials.

Power and Motor: One of the most important features to look for in a handheld power planer is its power and motor. A higher power rating will allow the planer to remove material more efficiently and handle thicker or harder materials. Additionally, a powerful motor will ensure smooth and consistent performance, even under heavy loads.

Cutting Depth and Width: Another crucial feature to consider is the cutting depth and width of the planer. The cutting depth determines how much material can be removed in a single pass, while the cutting width indicates the maximum width of the surface that can be planed. These factors are especially important if you are working on larger projects or need to remove a significant amount of material.

  • Adjustable Depth Stop: An adjustable depth stop allows you to set the desired depth for each pass, ensuring consistent and precise planing. This feature is particularly useful when you need to achieve specific thicknesses or create uniform surfaces.
  • Reversible Blades: Look for a handheld power planer that has reversible blades. This allows you to flip the blades when one side becomes dull, extending the lifespan of the blades and saving you money on replacements.
  • Dust Collection System: A good dust collection system is important for keeping your work area clean and reducing the amount of dust and debris that is generated during planing. Look for a planer that has a built-in dust collection bag or the ability to connect to a vacuum cleaner for efficient dust removal.
  • Ergonomic Design: Lastly, consider the ergonomics of the handheld power planer. Look for a tool that has a comfortable grip and is well-balanced to minimize fatigue and ensure better control and precision during use.

By considering these key features in a handheld power planer, you can choose a tool that will meet your specific needs and deliver optimal performance and results.

See also  Best Electric Planer For Doors

Top 5 Handheld Power Planers on the Market

When it comes to handheld power planers, there are several options available on the market, each with its own set of features and benefits. Whether you’re a professional carpenter or a woodworking enthusiast, having a high-quality and reliable power planer is essential for achieving smooth and precise results. Here are five top-notch handheld power planers that are currently leading the market:

1. Bosch PL1632

The Bosch PL1632 is a powerful and versatile handheld power planer that is known for its exceptional performance. It features a 6.5-amp motor, which provides ample power for handling even the toughest planing tasks. The tool’s 16,500 RPM blade speed ensures smooth and clean cuts, while its dual-mount guide fence allows for straight and accurate planing. The Bosch PL1632 also comes with a depth adjustment knob and a lock-off button for added safety and convenience.

2. DEWALT DCP580B

The DEWALT DCP580B is a cordless handheld power planer that offers both convenience and power. With its brushless motor, this planer delivers high performance and extended runtime. It has a depth adjustment knob and a lock-on button for precise and consistent planing. The DEWALT DCP580B also features a chamfering groove for creating beveled edges, making it a versatile tool for various woodworking projects.

3. Makita KP0800K

The Makita KP0800K is a compact and lightweight handheld power planer that is perfect for both professional and DIY use. It has a 6.5-amp motor, which provides sufficient power for efficient planing. The planer’s two-blade cutter head delivers smooth and precise results, while its chip ejection system keeps the work area clean. The Makita KP0800K also features a depth adjustment knob with easy-to-read settings for accurate and convenient planing.

4. Black & Decker 7698K

The Black & Decker 7698K is a budget-friendly handheld power planer that doesn’t compromise on performance. It features a 5.2-amp motor, which provides sufficient power for planing wood, plywood, and other materials. The planer has a two-blade cutter head for smooth and accurate cuts, and its front and rear shoes ensure stability during operation. The Black & Decker 7698K also comes with a depth adjustment wheel and a dust bag for added convenience.

5. Festool EHL65E

The Festool EHL65E is a high-end handheld power planer that is designed for professionals who demand perfection. It features a 720-watt motor, which delivers exceptional power and performance. The planer’s spiral blade design ensures smooth and clean cuts, while its single-button knife change system allows for quick and easy blade replacement. The Festool EHL65E also has a stepless depth adjustment and a chip deflector for precise and efficient planing.

How to Use a Handheld Power Planer Safely and Effectively

Using a handheld power planer can be a daunting task if you don’t follow the proper safety precautions. However, with the right techniques and precautions in place, you can easily and effectively use a handheld power planer to achieve smooth and even surfaces on your woodworking projects.

Preparation: Before you begin using a handheld power planer, it’s important to prepare yourself and the work area. Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as safety glasses, ear protection, and a dust mask to protect yourself from flying debris and the loud noise emitted by the planer. Additionally, clear the work area of any obstacles or clutter to ensure smooth and uninterrupted planing.

Proper Technique: When using a handheld power planer, it’s crucial to maintain a firm grip on the tool to ensure stability. Start by positioning the planer on the surface you want to plane, making sure the blades are not touching the material. Then, turn on the planer and slowly push it forward, applying consistent pressure but not forcing it too hard. Keep the planer moving in a forward motion, overlapping each pass slightly for an even cut. Remember to move with the grain of the wood to avoid tearing or splintering.

  • Start with shallow cuts and gradually increase the depth as you become more comfortable with the planer.
  • If you encounter knots or other areas of the wood that are more challenging to plane, slow down and take your time to avoid any accidents.
  • Regularly check the depth adjustment knob to ensure the planer is cutting at the desired depth.
  • Keep the planer parallel to the surface and avoid tilting it as this can lead to uneven planing.

Clean-up: Once you have finished planing, turn off the power planer and wait for the blades to come to a complete stop before setting it down. Use a brush or vacuum to remove any wood shavings or debris from the work area. If necessary, use sandpaper or a hand plane to smooth out any rough areas left by the power planer.

By following these guidelines and practicing proper safety measures, you can confidently and effectively use a handheld power planer to achieve professional-looking results in your woodworking projects.

Tips and Tricks for Getting the Best Results with Your Handheld Power Planer

Using a handheld power planer can greatly simplify and speed up your woodworking projects. However, to achieve the best results, it’s important to follow some tips and tricks. Here are some guidelines to help you get the most out of your handheld power planer:

1. Choose the right blades

Blades are an essential component of a handheld power planer. Make sure to use high-quality blades that are sharp and suitable for the task at hand. Different blades are designed for different purposes, such as stock removal or finishing, so choose accordingly.

2. Set the depth of cut properly

Adjusting the depth of cut is crucial for achieving the desired outcome. Start with a shallow depth and gradually increase it until you reach the desired thickness. Be cautious not to remove too much material at once, as it may result in an uneven surface or tear-out.

3. Pay attention to the grain direction

When planing, always follow the direction of the wood grain. Going against the grain can cause tear-out and leave an unsightly finish. Take the time to evaluate the grain direction before starting your planing process.

4. Secure the workpiece

Before you begin planing, ensure that your workpiece is firmly secured. This will prevent any movement or slippage, allowing you to maintain consistent and accurate cuts. Consider using clamps or a workbench vise to hold the workpiece securely in place.

See also  Best Electric Hand Planer For Hardwood

5. Take light passes

Instead of attempting to remove a large amount of material in a single pass, take light passes. This will ensure more control and reduce the risk of tear-out. Gradually remove material in multiple passes until you achieve the desired result.

6. Check for flatness

After planing, use a straightedge or a level to check the flatness of the surface. If you notice any inconsistencies or dips, continue planing until the surface is uniformly flat. Taking the time to check for flatness will result in a more professional-looking finish.

7. Practice on scrap wood

If you’re using a handheld power planer for the first time or trying out a new technique, it’s always a good idea to practice on scrap wood. This will allow you to familiarize yourself with the tool and make any necessary adjustments before working on your actual project.

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to maximize the performance of your handheld power planer and achieve high-quality results in your woodworking projects.

10 Best Handheld Power Planer

800W Electric Power Wood Planer Wood Plane Handheld, Portable Wood Polishing Parallel Rebate Guides Woodworking Tool Sets 82x2mm Carpentry Planer

£27.82
Amazon.co.uk
as of July 4, 2024 11:30 pm

Features

  • 【Easy and Safe Operation】Wood Planer with Cutter Depth Adjustment Button and Convenient Trigger Switch
  • 【Smooth Results】Finely Processed Aluminum Bottom Plate Ensures Flat and Smooth Planing
  • 【Durable Performance】High Temperature Resistant Copper Wire Motor Design for Longevity and Power
  • 【Comfortable Handling】Equipped with Contoured Top Handle for Ease of Use
  • 【Enhanced Safety】Self-Locking Switch Design for Safer and Effortless Operation

Bosch Home and Garden Electric Planer PHO 1500 (550 W, Planing width 82 mm, Weight 2.4 kg, Cutting depth 0 – 1.5 mm, in carton packaging)

£82.00
£65.00
7 new from £65.00
4 used from £42.12
Free shipping
Amazon.co.uk
as of July 4, 2024 11:30 pm

Features

  • Woodrazor blade system for easy and quick blade changing and high surface quality
  • Combined guide and planning depth adjustment knob provides secure guidance
  • Single-sided chip ejection system with access for dust bag or vacuum cleaner
  • Quick and efficient removal of material on door frames and wooden beams
  • Automatically extending parking rest - prevents damage to the workpiece or planer blade when putting the planer down

800W Electric Power Wood Planer Sander Hand Held Woodworking Tool 82mm 11000RPM

£31.99
Amazon.co.uk
as of July 4, 2024 11:30 pm

Features

  • Wood planer is equipped with a contoured top handle and convenient trigger switch, this wood planer is easy to operate and use.
  • Finely processed aluminum bottom plate, so that the wood you planed is flat and smooth.
  • High temperature resistant copper wire design of the motor, low heat, large power, not easy to age, with long service life.
  • With cutter depth adjustment button, depth can be adjusted according to the demand.
  • The design of self-locking switch makes operation safer and more labor-saving.

800W Electric Wood Planer Door Plane Hand Held Woodworking DIY Processing Device for woodworkers for Sanding and Cutting Wood,Cutting Depth 1mm

£23.70
Amazon.co.uk
as of July 4, 2024 11:30 pm

Features

  • Ergonomic Design: The handle of this item is curved and cylindrical, which is a very ergonomic design. It is more smooth and more comfortable to hold while you're working.
  • Portable: The item is very small in size and 2.4kg/5.3 lbs in weight, and has a compact body design that can be held in one hand. It is very convenient for you to carry and store.The finely finished aluminium base plate and sharp blade make make the cut wood very flat and smooth.
  • High Durability: The item is made of high-quality material, which is relatively strong and stable. It is also not easy to damage or rust under proper use and is very durable.
  • Easy to Operate: The one-touch toggle switch make it easy to operate this product. Everything is designed for your comfortable experience.This item is used with very little noise. This makes your work quiet and comfortable.
  • Long Service Life: The motor is designed with high temperature resistant copper wire, which is low heat, high power and not easy to age. It makes the item have a long service life. This item is designed with a self-locking switch making the operation safer and more effortless.

13000 RPM 800W 220V Portable Electric Power Planer Spanner Guide Ruler Hand Held Woodworking Power Plane DIY Tool Kit Electric Wood Planer with Socket for Home Furniture

£51.34
2 new from £51.34
Free shipping
Amazon.co.uk
as of July 4, 2024 11:30 pm

Features

  • Planning depth: With a tool depth adjustment button to provide a safe guide, the depth of this portable electric wood hand planer can be adjusted as needed to avoid accidental slippage of the hand causing the board to be uneven
  • Efficient design: The electric planer is designed with high temperature resistant copper wire, which has low heat generation, high power, not easy to age, long service life, and can quickly and effectively remove materials on door frames and wooden beams
  • Self-locking switch: The self-locking switch design of the portable electric wood planer makes the operation safer, prevents damage to the workpiece or the planer blade, and saves effort
  • High-quality aluminum base plate: The finished aluminum base plate has high flatness and high precision, so that your planed wood is flat and smooth, and the electric wood planer can quickly complete any project
  • Ease of use: Simple to operate, the planer features a corrugated top handle and convenient trigger switch; ideal for securing doors, installing wood and correcting chips, shards and misshapen edges

Wood Planer Electric 13000 RPM 800W Portable Electric Wood Hand held Planer with Socket Spanner and Guide Ruler Thicknesser Planer for Wood, Electric Power Planer DIY Tool Kit for Home Furniture

£57.14
2 new from £57.14
Amazon.co.uk
as of July 4, 2024 11:30 pm

Features

  • Tool Depth Adjustment Button: With a tool depth adjustment button, the depth of this electric power planer can be adjusted according to requirements to avoid accidental sliding of the adjusting hand and cause uneven board surface
  • High-quality Aluminum Bottom Plate: The finished aluminum bottom plate of this electric wood planer has high flatness and high precision, making your planed wood smooth and smooth
  • High Temperature Resistant Copper Wire Design: Electric planer tool adopts high temperature resistant copper wire design, with low heat generation, high power, not easy to age, and long service life
  • Self-locking Switch Design: The self-locking switch design of the planers for wood makes the operation safer and more labor-saving; this electric wood planer can make any project fast
  • Easy to Operate and Use: The wood planer hand electric is equipped with a corrugated top handle and a convenient trigger switch; This wood planer is easy to operate and use
See also  How To Make Cutting Board Level Without Planer

Electric Hand Planer, Jellas 16000RPM Planer, with 2 Reversible HSS Blades, 2mm Adjustable Cut Depth, Parallel Fence Bracket, Ideal Planer Woodworking, EP710

£49.99
£42.49
2 used from £42.07
Free shipping
Amazon.co.uk
as of July 4, 2024 11:30 pm

Features

  • 【Mirror-grade aluminum shoe & Three V-NOTCH】The Mirror-grade aluminum front shoe brings high flatness and high precision. The base plate shoe includes a chamfer groove for easily flattening sharp post corners and allows you to create angled chamfer along the edges of your wood-working projects in different sizes.
  • 【Two Carbide Blades】The Jellas electric planes are equipped with two 65Mn carbide blades which could provide clean planning results on all wooden materials, like hardwood, softwood, and wood composite materials.
  • 【Powerful Electric Motor】JELLAS power hand planer for woodworking equipped with a 710W motor, providing up to 32000 cuts per minute, it can remove irregularities from your workpiece until the surface is even and smooth.
  • 【Modern Ergonomic and Lightweight】The Jellas electric wood planer is designed for optimal handling with Soft-grip on all grip areas. The lightweight design allows the machine weighs 2.3kg and make any carpenter job done easily and fast.
  • 【2-Year Warranty】JELLAS provides 2-year warranty, we will spare no effort to provide the satisfied service to every customer, feel free to contact us when you meet any problem, we will reply you within 24 hours to help you.

Electric Wood Planer, Portable Wood Polishing Crafting Planer Handheld Universal Electric Planer 220v Adjustable Woodworking Power Tool Carpentry Planer with Self-Locking Switch Aluminum Bottom Plate

£42.95
3 new from £42.95
Free shipping
Amazon.co.uk
as of July 4, 2024 11:30 pm

Features

Part Number Cocoarmwnv9best7u
Energy Efficiency Class perfect

Universal Electric Planer Wood, Portable Wood Planer Hand Hold Wood Surface Planing Tool, Wood Polishing Crafting Planer Adjustable 220V Woodworking Power Tool Carpentry Planer

£60.02
2 new from £60.02
1 used from £37.45
Free shipping
Amazon.co.uk
as of July 4, 2024 11:30 pm

Features

  • 【Powerful for Quality Comprehensive Crafting】This is a pretty powerful Electric Power Wood Planer that is designed to help polishing crafting wood furniture or decoration surface, making it much more smooth or making angles more round, 800W high efficiency power rate can provide maximum 16000rpm and achieve much higher quality and more comprehensive wood crafting job
  • 【Time and Labour Saving Choice】Compared to traditional manual wood planing way, this Electric Power Wood Surface Planing Tool is a much more time and labour saving choice, totally electrical action, no man power is needed, more fast and comprehensive
  • 【Flexible Adjustable Wide Application】There is also a cutter depth adjustment button of this 220V Portable Electric Wood Planer, which allows you to adjust according to your needs, with universal 8.4cm diameter and 1mm planing depth, it can be widely used for furniture decoration surface smoothing polishing and angle rounding grinding work
  • 【Easy Convenient to Use】It is also pretty easy and convenient to use this Portable Wood Polishing Crafting Planer, it is equipped with a contoured top handle and convenient trigger switch, easy one hand hold control and compact size for convenient carry and store
  • 【Reliable and Durable】This 220V Woodworking Power Tool Carpentry Planer is made of high quality solid aluminum alloy with plastic shield and pure copper wire which has high temperature resistance low heat and high power, hard to age, durable and reliable to serve a long life

Einhell 4345310 TC-PL 750 Electric Planer | Up To 2mm Chip Depth, Aluminium Soleplate, Parallel Stop, Fold Depth Stop | 750W Wood Plane For Doors and Woodworking Includes Carbide Planing Knife, Red

£45.95
£42.44
10 new from £42.00
3 used from £38.32
Free shipping
Amazon.co.uk
as of July 4, 2024 11:30 pm

Features

  • Switch for the direction of chipping throw-off
  • Adjustable chipping depth
  • Includes one carbide planing blade
  • Large blade wave for ideal working results
  • Aluminium planer plate

FAQ:

What is a handheld power planer?

A handheld power planer is a portable tool used for shaping and smoothing wood surfaces. It has a cutting blade that rotates rapidly to remove a thin layer of wood at a time.

How can I get the best results with my handheld power planer?

To get the best results with your handheld power planer, make sure to properly set the depth of cut according to the thickness of the wood. Take small and even passes over the wood surface, moving the planer in the direction of the wood grain. Also, keep the blades sharp and clean for optimal performance.

What safety precautions should I take when using a handheld power planer?

When using a handheld power planer, always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying wood chips. Also, make sure to secure the wood firmly before planing to prevent it from moving or kicking back. Keep your hands away from the cutting area and avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in the machine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, utilizing a handheld power planer effectively requires knowledge, practice, and attention to detail. By following these tips and tricks, users can achieve the best results with their power planer. Taking the time to properly set up the planer, selecting the right depth and width of cut, and using consistent and controlled movements will result in smooth, even, and precise woodwork. Additionally, maintaining the planer’s blades, adjusting the planer’s settings to fit different materials, and using safety precautions will further enhance the user’s experience with the power planer. Ultimately, with patience and skill, a handheld power planer can become an invaluable tool for both amateur and professional woodworkers.

Harrison Clayton

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.

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