Popular Woodworking 2004-02 № 139, страница 62

RIDGID TP1300LS

In the 13" category, the Ridgid is better outfitted with features than the average planer. It's a mid-priced machine with a dust diverter (which blocks outfeed table closure but also offers deflection to either side by switching the diverter cap location), a cord wrap, on-board tool storage in a clever side-mounted tool box, and very convenient access to the cutterhead (as with the Delta, the whole top pops off). One feature on the Ridgid that is unique in the test is the blade-change mechanism, using a "Fixed Nut-and-^ plate" configuration (see "Three Blade

Systems" on page 58).There's no need to remove the nuts to release the blades; just back the nuts off a few turns.

The blade alignment on the TP1300LS is

slightly different than on the rest of the planers in the test. Still efficient and offering lateral adjustment, the blades align via hooks on the ends rather than the common pins on the competitors. The height scale, graduated in inches (by V32") and millimeters, is reasonably easy to read. The TP1300LS also comes with an extra set of knives and a stand, in case you want it to be less mobile. During operation the amperage draw was low enough for a 15-amp circuit and indicated a reasonably efficient motor. The finished cut was reasonably good with less than .001" snipe with the head lock engaged. The Ridgid put in a good performance in the test, but it was ultimately beaten out by the more feature-laden three-knife DeWalt. (ridgid.com)

Priced $109 less than the next model in line, we didn't expect amazing results from the Ryobi. But we did find a planer with a number of quality features that turned in an OK performance in regards to the final finish.The graphics on all the controls indicate that the machine is geared towards first-time users. Unlike most machines in the test, the cord is stored in a cloth bag attached to the underside of the outfeed table. It's a little easier to access and put away, but this is not a huge benefit. The head lock is a large lever that very obviously lets you know when it's engaged. It's not a huge benefit, but it's nice for the novice.

As with most models, the dust diverter impedes the closing of the outfeed table. The top of the machine offers a handy little tool box, but

they forgot a tool that should be included -magnets. Most of the machines in our test offer magnets to handle the blade covers and the blades themselves.While the Ryobi does have "finger lifts" on the standard "Screw-and-plate" blade cover, you still end up handling the blades with your flesh - not preferred. The height scale is graduated in inches (by V16") and millimeters and has clear, understandable graphics. The motor is of average efficiency, but the finish cut fell short with the poorest example of snipe in the test.This machine is priced well for someone who is likely to use it occasionally and won't have unrealistic expectations about performance. But if you want a planer for the long haul, we can't recommend this one. (www.ryobitools.com)

SHOP FOX W1675

The Shop Fox typifies the average planer for this category. Its features include a wood-removal gauge, head lock, tables with rollers and a dust diverter that blocks the outfeed table from closing fully. It has an infinitely adjustable depth stop that functions between ¹/s" and 2", but it can only be set to one height, unlike the "preset" stops found on other planers in our test. This model also uses the "Screw-and-plate" blade cover, but the screws were overtightened at the factory, and we stripped two screw heads (and even stripped the tip off the hex wrench) when we tried to change the blades. If you choose the Shop Fox, we suggest that when you take the blades out for

the first time, take it slow and then replace the screws with better-quality screws.

During the test, the motor showed a very high amperage spike and pushed over a comfortable 15-amp breaker level.The board finish was reasonably clean and smooth with good snipe performance at less than .001". This machine is sadly the only one in the test that doesn't offer lateral adjustment for the knives to compensate for nicks - that's an oversight. When adjusting the cutterhead height we felt it was rougher to move than expected. Even with the reasonable performance, the lack of features and the difficulties in operation don't justify the price of this machine. (woodstockinternational.com)

60 Popular Woodworking February 2004