Hand planers are an essential tool for any woodworker or DIY enthusiast. They are used to smooth rough edges, level uneven surfaces, and create custom shapes in wood. Hand planers come in various types, including electric, block, and hand planers. However, in this article, we’ll be focusing on the best hand planers.
Hand planers are perfect for small projects, tight spaces, and precision work. They are also relatively affordable and require minimal maintenance. When choosing a hand planer, it’s essential to consider the blade’s sharpness, the size of the planer, and the adjustability of the blade. A sharp blade will ensure smooth and efficient cuts, while a larger planer will cover more surface area.
One critical factor to consider when purchasing a hand planer is the type of blade. Some blades are made of high-speed steel, while others are made of carbide. Carbide blades are more durable and can last up to 10 times longer than high-speed steel blades. However, they are more expensive. Another factor to consider is the adjustability of the blade. A planer with adjustable blades allows you to set the depth of the cut, which is crucial for precision work.
In this article, we spent several hours researching and testing ten hand planers to identify the ones that offer the best performance, durability, and value for money. We’ll be reviewing each planer in detail, highlighting their unique features, pros, and cons. Whether you’re a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, we’re confident that you’ll find the perfect hand planer for your needs.
Best Hand Planers
If you’re a woodworker or DIY enthusiast, you know how important it is to have a good hand planer in your toolbox. Hand planers are versatile tools that can help you smooth rough surfaces, trim edges, and create custom shapes. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to find the right one for your needs. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best hand planers available on Amazon. Whether you’re a professional carpenter or a weekend hobbyist, you’re sure to find a hand planer that fits your budget and requirements.
WEN Electric Hand Planer
If you’re looking for an affordable yet powerful hand planer, the WEN Electric Hand Planer is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 6-Amp motor delivers up to 34,000 cuts per minute, making it easy to smooth out even the toughest of boards.
- The 16 positive stops allow you to adjust the cutting depth anywhere from 0 to 1/8 inches, giving you complete control over your planing.
- The lightweight design, weighing in at only 6 pounds, makes it easy to maneuver and use for extended periods of time.
Cons
- The dust bag can be difficult to attach and may not collect all of the shavings.
- The blade may dull quickly with heavy use, requiring frequent sharpening or replacement.
- The cord may be shorter than desired for some users, limiting mobility.
Overall, the WEN Electric Hand Planer is a reliable and efficient tool for smoothing out boards and fixing stubborn doors. The included rabbeting guide and parallel fence bracket make it easy to make precise cuts, while the kickstand keeps the blade and workpiece protected in between uses. And with a 2-year warranty and a nationwide network of service technicians, you can trust that this planer will last for years to come.
STANLEY Hand Planer
If you’re looking for a hand planer that performs well and won’t break the bank, the STANLEY Hand Planer is a solid choice.
Pros
- The cutter rests at a 21° angle, making it ideal for cross-grain planing.
- The cutter is fully adjustable for depth of cut and alignment, giving you more control over your work.
- The finger-rest at the front of the plane adds comfort and control.
Cons
- The blade may need to be sharpened before use.
- The small size of the plane may cause hand fatigue after extended use.
- The mouth is fixed and cannot be adjusted.
The STANLEY Hand Planer is a reliable tool that gets the job done. Its adjustable cutter allows you to customize your cuts to your liking, while the finger-rest provides added comfort and control. However, the blade may need to be sharpened before use, and the small size of the plane may cause hand fatigue after extended use. Additionally, the mouth is fixed and cannot be adjusted, which may limit its versatility in certain situations.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable hand planer that performs well and is easy to use, the STANLEY Hand Planer is definitely worth considering.
Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Bench Hand Plane
If you’re looking for an affordable hand planer that can deliver professional quality results, the Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Bench Hand Plane might be just what you need.
Pros
- The cast iron body provides excellent stability and strength
- The impact-resistant plastic handle with contoured grip offers excellent control
- The durable steel alloy blade makes quality cuts
Cons
- The sole is not flat out of the box and requires flattening before use
- The blade needs sharpening before use
- The assembly instructions are not very clear
This hand plane is ideal for precision woodworking, and the adjustable gear allows you to achieve precise results with ease. The blade is durable and sharp, and the contoured grip makes it easy to hold and control.
Assembly is straightforward, but the instructions could be clearer. You’ll need to adjust the factory settings before use, and the sole may require flattening. However, once you’ve made these adjustments, you’ll be able to achieve professional quality results with ease.
In summary, if you’re looking for an affordable hand plane that offers professional quality results, the Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Bench Hand Plane is an excellent option. With a durable cast iron body, contoured grip, and adjustable gear, this hand plane is perfect for precision woodworking. Just be prepared to do some initial setup and tuning before use.
WEN 6534 8-Amp Electric Hand Planer, 4-3/8-Inch
If you’re in the market for a reliable and efficient hand planer, the WEN 6534 8-Amp Electric Hand Planer, 4-3/8-Inch is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The powerful 8-amp motor provides up to 32,000 cuts per minute, allowing you to work quickly and efficiently.
- With a spacious 4-3/8-inch cutting capacity, this planer is perfect for planing 2x4s and 4x4s.
- The 16 positive stops adjust the cutting depth anywhere from 0 to 1/8 inches, giving you precise control over your work.
Cons
- The planer only comes with one blade, so if you need it for serious projects, you’ll need to purchase additional blades separately.
- The dust adapter and dust port can be a bit finicky to attach and use effectively.
- The planer is a bit heavy, which may make it difficult to use for extended periods of time.
Overall, the WEN 6534 8-Amp Electric Hand Planer, 4-3/8-Inch is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient hand planer. The powerful motor and spacious cutting capacity make it easy to tackle even tough projects, while the adjustable cutting depth allows for precise control. The planer is not without its flaws, but overall it’s a great value for the price.
Ryobi HPL52K Hand Planer
If you’re in the market for a high-quality hand planer, the Ryobi HPL52K is a great option to consider.
Pros
- With a powerful 6 amp motor and a maximum speed of 16,500 RPM, this hand planer can handle even the toughest jobs with ease.
- The rubber overmold grip provides excellent control, even in slippery conditions.
- The adjustable depth allows you to precisely shave down wood to your desired thickness.
Cons
- The dust collection bag can be a bit finicky to attach and detach.
- The kickstand on the back of the unit can be a bit wobbly at times.
- Some users have reported that the blades can dull relatively quickly.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and powerful hand planer, the Ryobi HPL52K is definitely worth considering. Its adjustable depth, rubber overmold grip, and powerful motor make it a great choice for any woodworking project.
Kattool Mini Hand Planer
If you’re looking for a small but multipurpose hand planer, the Kattool Mini Hand Planer is a good option to consider.
Pros
- The high-speed steel material blade with a cutting width of approximately 0.5 inches makes this planer great for small wood crafts.
- The 0.9-inch bottom width of the planer makes it ideal for planing grooves and other detail woodworking.
- The smooth ebony plane body is durable and won’t hurt your hands with splinters.
Cons
- The blade may require sharpening before use.
- The blade has some side-to-side play, which may make it difficult to get a straight cut.
- The steel nail at the front of the block plane may be difficult to use for some people.
This hand planer is easy to use and friendly to both woodworking starters and professionals. It’s perfect for DIY wood crafting, such as smoothing wood surfaces and splinters, carving edges and wood stairs, and trimming edges.
The Kattool Mini Hand Planer is a great addition to any woodworker’s toolkit.
WEN 6528 Electric Hand Planer
If you’re looking for a reliable and budget-friendly electric hand planer, the WEN 6528 is a great option to consider.
Pros
- With a 3.8-amp motor, this planer can provide up to 32,000 cuts per minute, making it a powerful tool for smoothing out rough surfaces.
- The 9 positive stops allow you to adjust the cutting depth anywhere from 0 to 1/16 inches, giving you precise control over your planing.
- Weighing in at only 4.3 pounds, this planer is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Cons
- The WEN 6528 does not come with a dust bag, so it can create quite a mess when in use.
- While this planer is great for DIY projects, it may not be durable enough for professional use.
- Some users have reported that the blade can break easily, so it’s important to be careful when using it.
Overall, the WEN 6528 Electric Hand Planer is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable planer. It’s perfect for DIY projects and small jobs around the house.
DEWALT 20V MAX Planer
If you’re in the market for a powerful and efficient hand planer, the DEWALT 20V MAX Planer is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The brushless motor provides impressive power and runtime, allowing you to get the job done quickly and efficiently.
- With 30,000 cuts per minute, this hand planer achieves a fast removal rate, making it ideal for larger projects.
- The calibrated depth adjustment knob allows for precision cuts up to 5/64-inch (2 mm.), while the precision-machined front and back aluminum shoes ensure parallelism of cut.
Cons
- While the poly-V drive belt provides increased durability, some users have reported issues with belt slippage.
- The kickstand can be a bit finicky, making it difficult to rest the planer on a work surface without gouging the material.
- Replacement blades can be a bit pricey, so factor that into your budget if you plan to use this tool frequently.
Overall, the DEWALT 20V MAX Planer is a solid choice for anyone in need of a powerful and efficient hand planer. Its brushless motor and fast removal rate make it ideal for larger projects, while its precision-machined shoes and calibrated depth adjustment knob allow for precision cuts. If you don’t mind the occasional belt slippage or finicky kickstand, this hand planer is definitely worth considering.
EXXO No. 4 Jack Bench Hand Plane
If you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-use tool for flattening and reducing rough wood thickness, the EXXO No. 4 Jack Bench Hand Plane is a great choice for you. This high-quality, professional-grade woodwork bench plane is suitable for beginners and pros alike.
Pros
- The EXXO Jack Planer is made with high-quality, durable materials for long-lasting use.
- It features an adjustable edge, which allows users to cut at a wide depth.
- This bench plane is widely used and suitable for many crafting and woodworking projects.
Cons
- The blade may require honing and flattening before use.
- The blade may not be very sharp out of the box.
- The product does not come with a manual.
This classic wood planer is ready to go right out of the box. It features quality construction, replacement cutter blades, and fast adjustment. The EXXO Jack Planer enables easy operation with your hands, making it suitable for use as a thickness planer or wood reducer for shaping, planing, joining, carving, building, machining, and making while changing planes as required.
Great for finish and design work for home improvement or the workshop, this gear is good for the everyday maker, DIY’er, carpenter, woodworker, or crafter. It is a useful appliance that can be used on hard and softwood, including maple, oak, plywood, cedar, boards, and more.
In summary, if you’re looking for a high-quality, affordable hand plane to smooth out, flatten, and reduce rough wood thickness, the EXXO No. 4 Jack Bench Hand Plane is a great choice.
Buying Guide
When choosing a hand planer, there are several features to consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Type of Blade
One of the most important features to consider is the type of blade. There are two main types of blades: straight and curved. Straight blades are ideal for planing flat surfaces, while curved blades work best for shaping and smoothing curved surfaces. Consider the type of woodworking projects you plan to undertake and choose a blade that suits your needs.
Blade Width
Blade width is another important factor to consider. Wider blades are ideal for larger projects, while narrower blades are better suited for smaller projects that require more precision. Consider the size of the projects you will be working on and choose a blade width that suits your needs.
Depth of Cut
The depth of cut is the amount of material that the planer can remove in a single pass. This is an important factor to consider, especially if you will be working with harder woods. Look for a planer with an adjustable depth of cut so that you can customize it to your specific needs.
Ergonomics
When choosing a hand planer, it’s important to consider the ergonomics of the tool. Look for a planer with a comfortable grip and a weight that is easy to handle. This will help reduce fatigue and improve accuracy.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the hand planer. While it’s important to invest in a quality tool, you don’t want to overspend on features you don’t need. Look for a hand planer that fits within your budget and has the features you require.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best hand planer for your woodworking needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top features to look for in a high-quality electric hand planer?
When choosing an electric hand planer, it’s important to consider the power of the motor, the size of the blades, and the depth of cut. A high-quality electric hand planer should have a powerful motor, sharp blades, and the ability to adjust the depth of cut easily. Look for models with a comfortable grip, a dust collection system, and a sturdy base.
How do manual hand planers compare to electric hand planers in terms of precision?
Manual hand planers are generally more precise than electric hand planers because they allow for more control over the depth of cut. However, electric hand planers are much faster and more efficient, making them a better choice for larger projects.
Which brand offers the best performance in hand planers for professional use?
There are several brands that offer high-quality hand planers for professional use, including DeWalt, Makita, and Bosch. Each brand has its own unique features and benefits, so it’s important to research and compare different models before making a purchase.
What are the advantages of using a block plane over a smoothing plane for certain woodworking tasks?
Block planes are smaller and more maneuverable than smoothing planes, making them ideal for tasks that require precision and control. They are also more versatile, as they can be used for both end-grain and face-grain work.
How do you determine the ideal hand planer size for specific projects, such as door planning?
The size of the hand planer you need will depend on the size of the project you are working on. For larger projects, a larger hand planer with a wider blade may be more efficient. For smaller projects, a smaller hand planer with a narrower blade may be more appropriate.
What safety precautions should be considered when operating a hand planer?
When using a hand planer, it’s important to wear eye and ear protection to prevent injury from flying debris and loud noise. Always use the planer with both hands and keep your fingers away from the blades. Make sure the planer is switched off and unplugged when changing blades or making adjustments.
