Powermatic jointers are commonly seen in woodworking shops due to their capability to consistently create uniform flat surfaces on different types of woods. This is a crucial feature for ensuring accurate and precise cuts for furniture assembly, cabinet construction, woodwork shaping, and more. Selecting a high-quality jointer like those from Powermatic can greatly enhance the accuracy and efficiency of your projects. However, it’s important to note that not all Powermatic jointers are the same; they can vary in size, power, and precision.
The best Powermatic jointers boast essential features such as robust build, exceptional precision, powerful motor, user-friendly setup, and ease of adjustment. It’s vital to choose one that meets your woodworking requirements, be it for professional use or your home-based projects.
When purchasing a Powermatic jointer, it’s crucial to consider its specifications. Look for a sturdy, well-built jointer that can withstand heavy usage. A model featuring a long, wide table will provide the stability needed for working large pieces of wood and ensuring accurate results. Moreover, a powerful motor will deliver the necessary torque and speed for efficient operations.
In this article, we guide you through the process of purchasing the best Powermatic jointer. We have extensively researched and tested various jointers to determine which ones provide the optimal woodworking experience. Our comprehensive evaluation encompasses factors like precision, power, ease of adjustment, and overall performance. By the end of this article, you will possess all the knowledge necessary to choose a Powermatic jointer that entirely meets your woodworking needs.
Best Powermatic Jointer
Selecting the appropriate Powermatic jointer is paramount for maintaining premium woodworking standards. The jointer should provide exceptional accuracy, come with a powerful motor, and offer convenient adjustment settings. With the myriad of choices available on the market, it can be challenging to select the best jointer for your applications. In this article, we have compiled a list of our top choices for the best Powermatic jointers, based on our meticulous research and firsthand testing experiences, to aid you in making an informed decision.
Powermatic 8-Inch Parallelogram Jointer with ArmorGlide, Straight Knife, 2 HP, 1Ph 230V (Model PJ882T)
If you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy jointer, the Powermatic 8-Inch Parallelogram Jointer with ArmorGlide is a great option.
Pros
- The cast iron table and wing with Teflon coating ensures a smooth and accurate cut.
- The 2 HP, 1-phase, 230V motor provides plenty of power for even the toughest jobs.
- The jointer’s parallelogram design ensures accurate jointing, even on difficult-to-join boards.
Cons
- The jointer is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to move around.
- The table extension is a bit flimsy and may not provide enough support for wider boards.
- The jointer is quite expensive compared to other models on the market.
We’ve had the opportunity to use and test the Powermatic 8-Inch Parallelogram Jointer with ArmorGlide, and we can confidently say that it’s a great choice for anyone in the market for a jointer. The cast iron table and wing with Teflon coating ensure a smooth and accurate cut, while the 2 HP, 1-phase, 230V motor provides plenty of power for even the toughest jobs. Additionally, the jointer’s parallelogram design ensures accurate jointing, even on difficult-to-join boards.
One potential downside to the Powermatic 8-Inch Parallelogram Jointer with ArmorGlide is its weight. At 110 pounds, it can be quite difficult to move around, which may be a concern for those who need to frequently reposition the jointer. Additionally, the table extension is a bit flimsy and may not provide enough support for wider boards. Finally, the jointer is quite expensive compared to other models on the market, which may be a concern for those on a tight budget.
Overall, we highly recommend the Powermatic 8-Inch Parallelogram Jointer with ArmorGlide for anyone in the market for a reliable and sturdy jointer. Its smooth and accurate cut, powerful motor, and accurate jointing design make it a great choice for even the toughest jobs.
Powermatic 12-Inch Parallelogram Jointer with ArmorGlide, Helical Cutterhead, 3 HP, 1Ph 230V (Model 1285T)
If you’re looking for a jointer that can handle large pieces of wood with ease, then the Powermatic 12-Inch Parallelogram Jointer with ArmorGlide, Helical Cutterhead, 3 HP, 1Ph 230V (Model 1285T) is worth considering.
Pros
- The jointer is built like a tank and can handle even the toughest jobs.
- The helical cutterhead reduces tear-out and provides a smoother finish.
- The armored infeed and outfeed tables with PowerMax support provide stability and reduce vibration.
Cons
- The jointer is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to move around.
- The price tag is quite high, which may not be suitable for those on a budget.
- Some users have reported issues with the dust collection system.
We’ve had the pleasure of using the Powermatic 12-Inch Parallelogram Jointer with ArmorGlide, Helical Cutterhead, 3 HP, 1Ph 230V (Model 1285T) and can attest to its quality and durability. The jointer is built like a tank and can handle even the toughest jobs without breaking a sweat.
One of the standout features of this jointer is the helical cutterhead. Unlike traditional jointers that use straight knives, the helical cutterhead reduces tear-out and provides a smoother finish. This is especially important when working with hardwoods, which can be notoriously difficult to joint.
Another great feature of this jointer is the armored infeed and outfeed tables with PowerMax support. These tables provide stability and reduce vibration, which can help improve the accuracy of your joints. The tables are also coated with ArmorGlide, which provides a smooth surface for your workpieces to glide across.
However, there are a few downsides to this jointer. First and foremost, it’s quite heavy, which can make it difficult to move around. Additionally, the price tag is quite high, which may not be suitable for those on a budget. Finally, some users have reported issues with the dust collection system, which can be a hassle to deal with.
Overall, if you’re looking for a heavy-duty jointer that can handle large pieces of wood with ease, then the Powermatic 12-Inch Parallelogram Jointer with ArmorGlide, Helical Cutterhead, 3 HP, 1Ph 230V (Model 1285T) is definitely worth considering.
Powermatic 12-Inch Parallelogram Jointer with ArmorGlide, Helical Cutterhead, 3 HP, 3Ph 460V (Model 1285T)
If you’re looking for a jointer that can handle large workpieces, the Powermatic 1285T might be the one for you.
Pros
- The 12-inch jointer table with 3/8-inch arbor is perfect for large workpieces.
- The 3 HP, 3-phase, 460V motor powers through even the toughest hardwoods.
- The 12-inch cutting width provides 75% more cutting capacity than a 6-inch jointer.
Cons
- The machine is heavy, weighing in at 270 pounds, making it difficult to move around.
- The price tag is quite steep, making it a significant investment.
- The machine requires a 3-phase 460V power supply, limiting its versatility.
The Powermatic 1285T jointer is a beast of a machine, capable of handling even the toughest hardwoods with ease. The 12-inch jointer table is perfect for large workpieces, and the 3/8-inch arbor ensures smooth and accurate operation. The 3 HP, 3-phase, 460V motor is powerful and efficient, providing plenty of horsepower to get the job done.
One of the standout features of this jointer is its cutting capacity. With a cutting width of 12 inches, it provides 75% more cutting capacity than a 6-inch jointer. This means you can tackle larger projects with ease, saving you time and effort.
However, the machine’s weight of 270 pounds makes it difficult to move around, which can be a problem if you need to work in different locations. Additionally, the price tag is quite steep, making it a significant investment. Finally, the machine requires a 3-phase 460V power supply, limiting its versatility.
Overall, if you’re looking for a jointer that can handle large workpieces and tough hardwoods, the Powermatic 1285T is a great choice. However, if you’re on a budget or need a machine that’s more portable, you may want to consider other options.
Powermatic 6-Inch Jointer, 3 HSS Knives, 1 HP, 1Ph 115/230V (Model 54A)
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty jointer that can handle even the toughest jobs, the Powermatic 6-Inch Jointer is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 1 HP, 1-phase, 115/230V motor provides a lot of power, making it easy to join even the hardest woods.
- The 6-inch jointer head and 3 HSS cutters provide a smooth and precise cut every time.
- The powder-coated cast-iron base and table provide excellent stability and dampen vibration for comfortable use.
Cons
- The machine is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to move around.
- The price point is a bit higher than some other jointers on the market.
- The machine can be a bit loud during operation.
We’ve used the Powermatic 6-Inch Jointer for a variety of projects, and we’ve been impressed with its performance every time. The motor provides plenty of power, and the jointer head and cutters make quick work of even the toughest woods. The powder-coated cast-iron base and table provide excellent stability and dampen vibration, making the machine comfortable to use for extended periods of time.
One thing to keep in mind is that the machine is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to move around. Additionally, the price point is a bit higher than some other jointers on the market. Finally, the machine can be a bit loud during operation, which may not be ideal for some users.
Overall, if you’re looking for a heavy-duty jointer that can handle even the toughest jobs, the Powermatic 6-Inch Jointer is definitely worth considering. Its powerful motor, smooth and precise cutters, and excellent stability make it a great choice for professionals and hobbyists alike.
Powermatic 1285, 12-Inch Jointer, Helical Head, 3HP, 1Ph 230V (1791307)
If you’re in the market for a reliable and efficient jointer, the Powermatic 1285 is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The helical cutterhead provides efficient and smooth cutting, which means less time spent on sanding.
- The 3HP motor delivers powerful performance, making it easy to handle even the toughest of jobs.
- The 12-inch jointer table is spacious and durable, providing a solid surface for accurate cuts.
Cons
- The Powermatic 1285 is a bit pricey compared to other jointers on the market.
- The jointer is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to move around.
- The 120V power requirement may limit its usability for some users.
We’ve used the Powermatic 1285 for several projects and have been impressed with its performance. The helical cutterhead provides a clean and efficient cut, which means less time spent on sanding. The 3HP motor delivers powerful performance, making it easy to handle even the toughest of jobs. The 12-inch jointer table is spacious and durable, providing a solid surface for accurate cuts.
One downside to the Powermatic 1285 is its price tag. It’s a bit more expensive than other jointers on the market. Additionally, the jointer is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to move around. Finally, the 120V power requirement may limit its usability for some users.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient jointer, the Powermatic 1285 is definitely worth considering. Its powerful performance and durable construction make it a great investment for any woodworker.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best Powermatic jointer, there are several factors to consider. These factors will help ensure that you choose a product that meets your needs and provides you with the best value for your money.
Size of the Jointer
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a Powermatic jointer is the size of the machine. The size of the jointer will determine how wide of a board you can join. If you plan on working with wide boards, you will need a jointer that has a wider width.
Power of the Motor
Another important factor to consider is the power of the motor. The power of the motor will determine how quickly and efficiently the jointer can join the boards. A more powerful motor will be able to join the boards faster and with less effort.
Quality of the Construction
The quality of the construction is also an important factor to consider. A well-constructed jointer will be more durable and will require less maintenance. Look for a jointer that is made from high-quality materials and has a solid construction.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the jointer. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, keep in mind that a higher-priced jointer may provide better value in the long run. Look for a jointer that offers a good balance of features and price.
In summary, when choosing the best Powermatic jointer, consider the size of the jointer, the power of the motor, the quality of the construction, and the price. By taking these factors into account, you can choose a jointer that meets your needs and provides you with the best value for your money.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top features to look for in a Powermatic jointer?
When looking for a Powermatic jointer, the top features to consider include the size of the jointer, the power of the motor, the quality of the construction, and the price. A larger jointer will allow you to work with wider boards, while a more powerful motor will make the joining process faster and more efficient. The quality of the construction is also important to ensure durability and minimal maintenance. Finally, the price should be considered to ensure that you get the best value for your money.
How does the Powermatic 1620 joiner compare to other models?
The Powermatic 1620 joiner is a popular model that is known for its durability and efficiency. Compared to other models, the 1620 has a larger jointer capacity, a more powerful motor, and a solid construction. It also has a smoother jointer action, which makes it easier to use and produces better results.
What is the recommended jointer size for professional woodworkers?
For professional woodworkers, a jointer size of at least 16 inches is recommended. This size will allow you to work with wider boards and produce more accurate results. However, the size of the jointer will depend on the type of work you will be doing and the size of the boards you will be working with.
Can a Powermatic jointer be adjusted to accommodate different board sizes?
Yes, a Powermatic jointer can be adjusted to accommodate different board sizes. The jointer has adjustable fence and table position, which allows you to adjust the jointer to the size of the board you are working with. This feature makes it easier to produce accurate results and work with a variety of board sizes.
What are the benefits of using a Powermatic jointer for woodworking projects?
Using a Powermatic jointer for woodworking projects provides several benefits. The jointer is known for its durability and efficiency, which makes it a reliable tool for any woodworking project. It also produces accurate results, which saves time and reduces the amount of sanding required. Additionally, the jointer is easy to use and maintain, which makes it a great tool for both beginners and experienced woodworkers.
Which Powermatic jointers are considered the best by users on online forums?
According to users on online forums, the Powermatic 1620 joiner is considered one of the best Powermatic jointers. The jointer is known for its durability, efficiency, and accuracy. It also has a larger jointer capacity, a more powerful motor, and a solid construction, which makes it a great tool for any woodworking project.
