Features

• 1 HP, 120/240-volt induction motor
• Enclosed stand, dust collector connector
• Center-mounted fence, 3-knife cutterhead, cutterhead guard, push blocks
• Five year limited warranty on machines, parts and accessories

Reviews (24)

Tool good./Rebate sucks
The tool runs smooth and quietly. Minimal vibration. Lining up pulleys is a pain as others have noted. The motor moves in two different planes during adjustment. This is typical of numerous machine motor mounts. The fence and tables came from the factory well adjusted. I haven't had to fool with them. It has given me good quality joints.
Can't help but touch on the rebate. After weeks, I received notice that I had to resubmit because I hadn't sent everything in. NOT true. I resubmitted. It took over 4 months to get the $100 rebate. I am now going through the same thing with the rebate on the X5 bandsaw. The free tools came through in a reasonable length of time. Delta just doesn't like to part with their money.

A good tool.
I purchased the 37-275X jointer September 2004 (and received it then also).I have used it making:a bedside table (with drawers and a shelf) of oak, a coffee table with an oak top and poplar legs, and a cherry pedestal.This tool helped me make my stock have a flat face and an edge perpendicular to that face.My glue-ups have been of excellent quality since using this tool.

Set up of the tool was easy.The pulleys were aligned by Delta, and I did not have to re-position the motor. (Several other reviewers of delta jointers complained about these two aspects of the setup.)

I have had problems with dust collection (like several other reviewers).I found that the dust collection had a sheet metal duct to drop the dust and shavings from the cutters to a dust collection port on the side of the unit.Savings had clogged the inlet to that duct.I poked my shop vac hose up the duct and removed the clog.After that I found that my DC was able to collect the dust.

I have had no problem with the bed or fence rusting.I wax them with furniture polish, now and again when the bed is no longer slick.

When I purchased the unit Delta was running a promotion to give you a free tool.I choose the mobility base.My shop is in my garage.I get a car's worth of space plus some extra wall space.I find the tool with the base easy to store, and roll out and use on my projects. I would rather have an 8" jointer, but lack the space for it.This is a good sturdy tool.I enjoy using it.I think it will work for many years.

Satisfied Hobbyist
I bought the 37-275X in January of 2004 through Amazon.Thought I would get some use out of the tool before I reviewed it.Overall I've been quite satisfied with the jointer for the past year.I read lots of reviews in magazines and on Amazon and finally settled on the 275X because of features, price, and warranty.I am not loyal to any specific company.I go for the best tool for the price.

After placing my order the tool arrived within 8 days.It came covered in the protective grease.I guess this is a good thing but it took longer to clean it off then to put the tool together.The only troubles encountered was aligning the pulleys (as mentioned by other reviews).The fence required no alignment but all three blades took a little adjusting as did the outfeed table. The paint and finish on my machine was just fine.I opted for the mobile base as the "free" gift.It was on back order and took 5 or 6 weeks to get here.Delta was nice enough to send me a notice with a small gift certificate to swollow the long arrival time.I guess I'll let them slide this time.

As far as operation goes I've been quite content.I've used the machine on oak, purple heart, cedar, and pine. Plenty of times I've used the entire 6" of the knives for face jointing with no problem as long as you don't try to take too much off at once.I've joined many edges together that are flawless and beautiful.The machine is also more quiet than I expected.

The only problem I've had with the machine is the chip ejection system.As many other reviewers have said it is less than perfect but mine has not been as bad as some other reviewers.I've got it connected to a Jet 650cfm and still have a small amount of chips coming up and out onto the table.A little bit gets piled up under the stand but only enough to move the machine and vacuum the chips up once a month. I've never had the chips completely clog the system.

I did go through a short period of needing to align the table and knives constantly for two weeks (this was after owning it for about a month or two).This is my first jointer so I don't know if the problem was with me or the machine.Like I said it only lasted two weeks and now I haven't had to do any alignments for many months.Still a little puzzled on this one.

If I could do anything different it would be to buy the 8" jointer but this was not financially pracitical for a hobbyist. Overall, I'm happy with this machine.A few minor problems and nothing else to compare the jointer with is the reason for the 4 star rating (I reserve a 5 star for complete perfection). ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Jointers    2. Stationary Jointers   

Editorial Review

When you're ready to step up to the professional woodworking scene, this jointer from Delta helps design your calling card. Materials up to 8 inches wide glide across the cast-iron infeed and outfeed tables. The fence adjusts with rack-and-pinion precision, beveling 45 degrees in and out with positive stops at 90 and 45 degrees to give you the angle your work demands. We appreciate the easy height-adjustment lever that keeps the guide close to the three-blade drum--no matter what the position--through its 1/2-inch range via a parallelogram support structure. Delta realizes the use of heavy machinery carries a great risk of injury; consequently, they designed this jointer with a large, easily accessible on/off paddle switch at shoulder height on the right side. Driven by a 1-1/2-horsepower induction motor for use with a built-in dust collector port, this jointer will complement any woodshop. --Justin Paul ... Read more

Features

• 1-1/2-horsepower, single-phase motor delivers 16,500 cuts per minute for a smooth finish
• Extra-long 42-inch infeed table for supporting long work
• Cast-iron fence tilts 45 degrees in and out with positive stops for easy set up
• Built-in rabbeting ledge allows cuts up to 5/8 of an inch deep

Reviews (20)

Solid and Accurate
I bought my DJ-20 from Amazon about three years ago.Delivered inside my garage via lift gate truck -- not bad!The cuts were like glass or as someone else said, like 220 sanded finish.I have the Delta mobile base which is extremely well built and very useful since very long infeed/outfeed tables can get in the way in a cramped workshop/garage.

I've only checked flatness with my 12" Starrett rule and couldn't find any low spots or warping.

It did come with a defective knife guard (painted red in picture - aluminum).The pivot hole had been machined too large so it angled toward the table.Maybe should be 4 ½ stars but rounding up since Delta sent me a replacement with zero hassles.

After nicking the blades bad enough to need replacing, I haven't been able to align new ones as well as the factory.Used Jointer-Pal and dial-indicator but when tightening the hold-down bolts the knives move a few hundredths.Probably user error.

On mine, top says made in Taiwan, cabinet says made in USA.I would buy this again without hesitation.

Industry Standard
There are three primary requirements that all jointers must meet.1. The in feed and out feed tables must be perfectly parallel.2. The fence must form a right angle along it's entire length across both tables (if it doesn't form a right angle there's not much hope in getting it to work at other angles).And finally, 3. The in feed and out feed tables must be long to facilitate accurate straitening of lumber prior to being run through a thickness planer.All of these factors are met and in many ways exceeded by the Delta DJ 20.I've owned mine for 15 years and I can attest that this is the best jointer I have ever used.I've owned two combination jointer thickness planers in the past and neither of these machines came close to the DJ 20 for accuracy in jointing lumber.The mechanisms for either removing or lifting the joiner tables out of the way to use combination machines as a thickness planer effect the accuracy of the jointer tables, regardless of how well or heavily built these machines are (one of my combination machines was a 20" jointer / thicknesser and weighed almost 2000 lbs., horrible jointer, constant problems with table and fence alignment).I would never recommend combination machines to anyone other than a casual weekend warrior with very little workshop space.

The 8 inch capacity may seem limiting, but in reality this is not an issue.The parallelogram mechanism for both the in feed and out feed tables is superior to anything I've ever seen and it makes altering the depth of cut a snap.This machine is a beast as far as weight but a jointer needs to be heavy... really heavy.Nothing is more frustrating than a lightweight jointer "walking away" from you as you try and straighten lumber.My previous shop was in a basement, the DJ 20 slid down the stairs (with three people controlling it) like a dream.However, getting it out was interesting and took four strong men (three at the bottom pushing and one at the top pulling), ramps, dollies, tie down straps and a healthy amount of grunting... it was a miracle the three of us behind the machine came out alive.

One recommendation I would make for anyone considering the purchase of this machine is to get the mobile base.You may have the luxury of a permanent location for this machine, but the mobile base makes moving this monster so much easier.The mobile base also means someone is not reefing on your perfectly aligned in feed and out feed tables to get it to budge.Others have mentioned a problem with vibration.Mine had this issue when I first bought it, but I corrected this by ensuring that the motor and cutter head pulleys are in alignment.Dust collection is not an issue but don't buy the Delta attachment, as others have indicated it is for a 5" diameter hose.Instead buy a $5.00 plastic one and screw it to the cabinet, works just as well if not better.

When I purchased mine it was made in Brazil by Invicta.I'm not sure where the current models are made, but if Delta was smart they would not mess with something that was basically perfect and a standard piece of woodworking equipment in any shop dealing with solid wood.Highly recommended.

One great machine
Without getting technical, I will sum this machine up by simply saying that after one year of regular use, my DJ-20 has performed flawlessly, completing every task I have asked of it to perfection.I could not be happier with it.I've straightened and flatenned many boards with it and I enjoy using it immensely...it is a true pleasure to use and own.I would buy it again and highly recommend it without reservation. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Jointers    2. Stationary Jointers   

Editorial Review

Here’s a top-of-the-line jointer that’s equally comfortable in the professional’s shop or the home woodworking workshop. Its weight offers the stability the professionals and dedicated woodworker demand, and you can’t help but admire its bounty of high-end features. Our favorite feature is probably the extra-long infeed table, at a remarkable 42 inches. Like others in its class, it has three cutterheads, rather than two, but unlike others we’ve used, these knives adjust quickly and easily, thanks to Delta’s jackscrew arrangement. The 5-inch-high fence tilts smoothly and easily, and the rabbeting ledge makes a nice generous 5/8 max rabbet. You won’t be short on power with the 1-1/2 horse single phase motor that’s completely enclosed in the cabinet, where it stays clear of shavings and sawdust. We like the placement of the power controls, right where you need them should you have to shut down quickly. The bed is smooth as glass, and using it is an absolute pleasure.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Center locking fence
• 3-knife cutterhead module
• Cutterhead guard with wrenches
• Rabbeting ledge, tilting fence
• Push blocks and two pulleys

Reviews (6)

Delta DJ-20 Jointer
Fit, finish, design, overall very good.Parallelism between the infeed and outfeed within about 0.001" right from the factory.Slight lip on top edge the fence was removed with a little filing on the bevel (stay off the face!).After that, fence was flat withing 0.002".No discernable bow or twist.Plenty of power.Installation of knives is the usual hassle.Made easier with dial indicator and machinist's straight edge.Fence adjustments would be easier with some sort of screw controlled fine adjustment mechanism.A coat of wax on the bed makes the wood move easily.Dust collection is a VERY good idea.So is 220 VAC 1PH.Compared to griping I've heard about other brands, not much to gripe about here.Good value for the money.

Great Jointer
I upgraded to the DJ20 X5 after having a JET 6" jointer that I really enjoyed for about 10 years. I thought I'd get 2 more inches of capacity, but soon realized that I got so much more. This is a real workhorse. 8" wide hard maple doesn't even slow it down and the finish is better than anything I've experienced. The long infeed table is absolutely critical to getting a long board flat because it allows you to get more of a long board up on the work surface instead of a cupped end hanging off the end and eventually lifting the entire board up as it reaches the infeed table. The extra weight of the machine is a plus because it makes vibration nonexistent and it allows you to canteliever 8 feet of 8/4 maple (heavy) off one end of the machine without it even coming close to tipping. Try this with a 6" machine and you'll know what I mean. The fence and it's mechanisms are all way more sturdy and heavy duty. The sliding mechanism locks tighly and the fence angle adjustment is simple and positive. I must admit that I liked the wheel adjustment of the infeed table, but after using Delta's levers and seeing how fast, easy, and accurate the parallelogram system works, I'd never go back to wheels. My only regret is that I didn't get this earlier. If you're looking for an 8-inch jointer, you won't be disappointed with this one.

This is a superior jointer
I waited a long time for Powermatic to redesign their 8" jointer like they did with the 6", but I was dispointed.The new Powermatic 8" jointer's lower price does not offset the fit, finish, and features of this Delta 8" DJ20.

The Delta lever actuated depth of cut adjustment is fast, smooth, and accurate.The fence is easy to adjust and holds square. I have run a lot of figured wood over it and have not experienced burning or tear out, unless I abuse it or don't pay attention to grain direction.

I previously owned a 6" Jet jointer.If you are on a budget look at the 8" Grizley long bed, the Jet 8" on sale, or the Powermatic 6" long bed.

Assembly of this jointer is relatively easy.I did it myself in about 6 hour using alot of leverage and some strong sawhorses.I would not recommend this to everyone. Unless your a 250 weightlifter get some help putting it onto the stand. The rest is easy. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Jointers    2. Stationary Jointers   

Editorial Review

For those seeking a midsize jointer for the long haul, this 6-inch model is a great find suitable for the professional workplace or serious home woodshop. Powered by Delta's trusted 1-horsepower induction motor, the three-blade drum spins quietly in its cast-iron bed. Adjusting with rack-and-pinion precision, the fence tilts 45 degrees in and out with positive stops at 90 and 45 degrees for beveling and chamfering applications. Delta realizes the use of heavy machinery carries a great risk of injury; consequently, they designed this jointer with a large, easily accessible on/off paddle switch at shoulder height on the right side--a feature for which we have much respect. Thanks to industrial-grade infeed and outfeed tables, even longer 6-inch-wide planks get the support they need as you remove up to 1/2 of an inch of material to the collection port on each pass. So you want to increase your edge on the competition? Delta feels the same way. --Justin Paul ... Read more

Features

• Powerful one-horsepower motor for efficient cutting
• Extra large center mounted cast iron fence with rack and pinion adjustment
• Three knife cutterhead provides 14,400 cuts per minute for a smooth finish
• Two-year limited warranty on machines, parts, and accessories

Reviews (39)

Fence Biggest Drawback
If it were not for the cheap, cast aluminum fence I would recommend this. I think if you search enough you'll see that this is the single biggest complaint about this.

Suggestion: hold off until you can afford the next Delta model up (I believe that is the 360). It may be 2X the price, but well worth it. Also, the Ridgid is an outstanding buy at $399.00.

works for me.
i,ve been using this jointer for about two months now and it is a real joy to use. i,ve heard the other reviews that were not to good, but mine is just great.

What's with the pulleys not aligning?
After doing my homework (reading many reviews of 6" jointers in woodworking publications as well this forum), I settled on the Delta.The Jet had caught my eye (I have 3 other Jet machines, and have been impressed with their Quality Control), but in the end I opted for the Delta.

There is no question this is a great 6" jointer, as other reviewers have said.However, there is a design flaw (are you listening, Delta?) mentioned by other reviewers.

Why should I have to reverse the pulleys to get the belt properly aligned?ESPECIALLY SINCE SETUP INSTRUCTIONS EMPHASIZE THE NEED FOR PROPER ALIGNMENT! There, I feel better.

I also have another minor complaint with setup.The third bolt that attaches to the base through the dust chute could be a challenge for big armed, big handed guys.I managed, with very little wiggle room.

Overall, results with this jointer are impressive. Out of the box, the Delta performed flawlessly.No question, I'd give this product 5 stars, if not for the above-mentioned gripes.

I highly recommend purchasing a Delta 22-580K 13" planer to complement the jointer.I did, with no regrets.Now that's a fine product, worthy of 5 stars.

At the end of the day, the jointer and planer make a fine team.
Get past the setup, and this jointer will perform very well for you.No question. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Jointers    2. Stationary Jointers   

Editorial Review

The first time you run a workpiece through this jointer, you'll know thesatisfaction that precision brings. You'll be surfacing pieces as wide as 6-1/8 inches witha maximum pass depth of 1/8 inch over a 2-1/2-inch, three-blade cutterhead. If you'veused a benchtop jointer in the past, you'll love stepping up to the JT360, with its 46-inchbed and 4-7/8-inch fence that tilts to 45 degrees--in and out--for beveling and chamfering.Positive stops are at 45 and 90 degrees. The bed is cast iron, and the infeed and outfeedtables operate smoothly on the gibbed dovetail ways. What's nice about moving up to thismodel is its 1/2-inch rabbeting capacity, perfect for picture frame moldings and lots ofother projects. We're even impressed with the stand's solid, wide footprint andcomfortable 33-inch height. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• 2-year limited warranty on machines, parts, and accessories
• Heavy duty 3/4-horsepower, 115/23-Volt, single-phase induction-type motor
• Cast iron wedge bed design for solid support with fully adjustable infeed and outfeed tables that operate on gibbed dovetail ways to compensate for wear
• Lever-actuated infeed table, with lock handle, for quick, easy height adjustment
• Removable on-off switch to prevent unauthorized use of machine

Reviews (14)

good all around jointer
I began my search for a jointer at home depot, and after they made me angry i decided to go back to buying my tools here.At first i was weary about ordering machinery off the internet, but the experience was actually pretty pleasant.i went with 3 to 5 day shipping after hearing horror stories from people not getting thier stuff on time.my package arrived on time i was able to track it every step of the way and the best part was i didn'thave to make a claim on the package.

As for the jointer itself it's good enough for me and will probably last me a long time.It's heavy and is by no means cheaply made.It's acurate to within 1/32" and thats good enough for me.i set a good square on the fence and table and at the most i could probly only fit a sheet of paper under a couple areas.If this is good enough for me a carpenter apprentice and a rookie wood worker so it should suit all you homeowner/hobby enthusiasts out there.This unit though is certainly no homeowners special.

Setup took about three hours and a couple of tools(wrench set and a good shop ruler).Everything lined up close enough and i only had to rig a few things (very minor).The directions aren't great, but i managed and any semi-intelligent person could do the same.You are gonna need a buddy though, first to help get it off the truck and then to set a few things up.The jointers packaged weight is 250 pounds so make your own decision on how much help you need.

In the end though here is why i went with the delta. Final price after shipping was $334with the free $25 discount.Home depots' Ridgid was $400 with tax and i would rather have a brand name that's been around a while.As for Jets' similar jointer it just looks cheap.I hope this helps some of you and if you buy it like me you probably won't regret it.

Just as advertised
I am pleased with this new addition to my shop. The assembly instructions were easy to follow but you definitely need to wear disposable rubber gloves to protect yourself from the oily parts. All were rust free however. A socket set speeds final tightening. I had none of the problems noted in other reviews and I could not find this item at a lower price anywhere. Operation is quiet with little vibration. Perhaps a really serious woodworker can justify spending more but I think that I got just what I need.

Great tool for the price
This is the third jointer I have owned. The first a small cheapie bench top model that worked ok just didn't have enough bed length. The second was a Shopsmith 4" that worked just fine.
But mounting it to the Shopsmith got old quick. Also the bed length came into play again for any boards over 2 feet or so.
This jointer is great for the price. Does everything I hoped it would. The fence and tables were dead-on right out of the box. Knife settings were also right on. All I really had to do was assemble it and square the fence. I have used it quite a bit in the last few weeks. It has performed flawlessly! Sure it is not as pretty as many others out there what with the open stand and all, but that doesn't mean this is jointer isn't a great value, it surly is that. Fit and finish were great. Not as much grease to clean as some of my other Delta tools and assembly was simple. Don't be afraid to save a few bucks and get this guy! You won't be sorry.
The shipping was through ABF freight systems. I was able to track it throughout the shipping process and got a call to arrange delivery. The driver backed down my long driveway, and unloaded the heavy package into my garage. I didn't have to do a thing other than signing for it. There were a few holes punched in the box and I was concerned about damage. After opening the box I was pleasantly surprised to find how well this jointer was packaged. No damage at all!I took all the parts down to my basement shop and assembled it to the point of mounting the jointer to the stand. I got some help carrying the jointer downstairs and sitting it on the stand. After finishing the mounting and squaring it up I put it to use. I was going to buy the Delta wheeled base but after assembly it was pretty easy to drag into place. I saved the $50 for the portable base as I only need to move it on rare occasions and that is easily accomplished just by dragging it into place. The dust chute works well for me. I din't hook up to a dust collector or even a shop vac. Instead I put a cardboard box on the floor and 90% of the chips fall in. So I empty the box twice a week into the garbage pail. No hassel and so simple.
I am very satisfied with this jointer and the shipping/delivery used. I would not hesitate to do it again if needed.
For ratings I give it an
A for quality
A for fit and finish
B for assembly (some bolts are hard to get at)
A for shipping
A for quietness
A+ for value.
... Read more

Subjects:  1. Jointers    2. Stationary Jointers   

Features

• Two-year limited warranty on machines, parts, and accessories
• 1 1/2-hp induction motor for powerful cutting
• Large cast iron 72-inch infeed and outfeed tables to support longer stock
• Will handle a full 8 inch wide work piece for face jointing
• Center-mounted fence for easy adjustment

Reviews (11)

An Adventure in Assembly
I picked up the unit at the truck terminal because their forklift could load it on a pickup which can be backed up to the shop door. No shipping damage whatsoever that I could see. The mobile base was a big help.We set up the base cabinet and mobile base first and then took everything except the jointer out of the long box.We slit the box sides and were able to turn the jointer on its side to clean it up and get rid of the styrofoam.Using cardboard, we slid it from the truck bed onto the base to save on lifting.Uh oh, the motor was supposed to be mounted at the factory;It was not and hard to get to as well.The manual and pics say to adjust the belt tension with the motor mounts--not true.The frame bars are moved, not the motor mounts.Never could get the spring on the guard to tension and will ask for a replacement for that.Just a simple adjustment to square the fence at 90 deg to the table.The tables were in perfect alignment as were the knives.I had a scrap piece of alder bowed on 2 sides.The jointer took almost all of the bow out before I decided to cut a few inches off the ends.All 4 sides are smooth as glass.Even though the beast is made in China, it's very good quality compared to some of my other machines made there.I'm very happy with it and would have given 5 stars if the motor had been installed and the manual written correctly.Yes, I read the manual and think that it should be written correctly and the pictures, too.The machine is very stable on the mobile base which is really a heavy duty model.I did buy mine from ToolCrib via phone because I had some questions which were answered okay.This is a much better place to write reviews rather than trying to search for them on the various woodworking forums.It's oh so much easier to find the reviews here than other places.Hope y'all will help us out with your review as well.Thanks!
Update:I got a replacement spring for the guard assembly in less than 24 hrs. from Delta.Now that's service!

Rock solid and worth the money
I have had my DJ-380 for about 8 months and have nothing but praise for it.
It was packed well and arrived in great condition.I did feel as though I had pulled a double shift at the local Jiffy Lube by the time I removed all the grease and oil from the machine.
Assembly was straight forward and easy.
I never had to contact Delta on this machine, however, when I did contact them in the past, I always found them very helpful and prompt.
The dust collection system could use some improvment - only gets rid of about half the chips.
Adjustments are easy and precise and the location on the off/on switch is great.
I would recommend this machine in a heartbeat.

I only wish I could report to you.
Unforutnately I can't tell you how this jointer works. The second time I turned it on after assembly, the motor burned out. An extremely surly and unsympathetic woman at Delta told me I had to detach the motor and take it to an approved repair store 40 miles away. The last repair job I entrusted to this outlet took three months. So, I sit with an unusable piece of equipment and am out the money to boot. Wish I had gone for the Powermatic.
An update: It took six weeks to get the new motor. When I hooked it back up, someone had cut away some of the power cord so I had to rig an extension to get the on/off switch to fit the support arm. The jointer works fine now, but what an ordeal! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Jointers    2. Stationary Jointers   

Features

• Two-year limited warranty on machines, parts, and accessories
• 3 hp, 230V, single phase induction motor for powerful cutting action
• Delivers 15,000 cuts per minute for a smooth finish
• 12-inch width capacity for larger projects
• Center-mounted, rack an pinion fence for easy adjustment

Reviews (4)

The General is Better for the money
I have looked at several 12" joiners, even though all my aspiring cabinet maker friends say I will never need more than an 8" joiner. (fools that they are!) Only the General (Canadian, not taiwanese )offers the helical head cutter as an option in the 12" joiner. Add to this the General reputation for qualtiy and dependability and the same approximate price point and you have an unbeatable value. I would wait to set if Powermatic comes out wih a 12" with helical cutters but why hope for something in 2004-5 when you can have it now?

Oh, Grizzly makes a 12" joiner with helical head also, but who wants to take a chance on them? I can't "bear" the thought of wasting my money. (Ha Ha)

Awful
This product gets horrible reception, I can barely make out shapes and colors. It costs a fortune and almost killed my dog!

Pretty basic for the money
first off, I have to say that the notion of getting the widest jointer you can afford is absolutely correct.I had a 6" Delta for several years, and was always an inch or two shy of being able to easily flatten the typical board.Now - no problem - its rare that you run across anything more than 10" wide.

I've had this jointer (single phase motor) for a couple of years now.After considering several brands in and around this size, including the new line of Grizzly, General International, and a Brazilian brand that made jointers for Delta (I believe Invicta), even with the added cost I decided to get Delta because . . . well, its Delta.They've been very good anytime I've had a problem with one of their machines.

So, this machine is very solid, and does its job well.But - the blades are relatively difficult to change, particularly when compared with other brands.You can't get it with a Tersa cutter.The dust collection is poor; for fine cuts its constantly clogging right below the cutter hed.The lever action height adjustment is more difficult to fine adjust than a wheel.On the up side, the cast iron came in flat to a couple thousandths, and had pretty much stayed that way (cast iron continues to shrink for a couple of years after its been cast and machined - inexpensive cast iron needs to be continuously adjusted, and occasionally remachined).

So, if for a lot of money you are OK with a very solid jointer, this works fine (even if made in Tawain).But in retrospect, I'd take a much closer look at the other brands that offer more features and have improved their service. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Jointers    2. Stationary Jointers   

Features

• Two-year limited warranty on machines, parts, and accessories
• Powerful 3/4-horsepower, single-phase induction motor for smooth cutting
• Three knife ball bearing cutterhead provides an even finish of cut
• Provides 14,400 cuts per minute for smooth results
• Full 6-by-46-inch table to handle long and large stock

Reviews (13)

Great little Jointer, at a small price
This is a great little jointer.It works well, is easy to set up, with one small exception (the belt which I upgraded to link belt), and is small enough to fit into my garage workshop.So far it has handled cypress and red oak, making my jointery perfect. If you're interested in a small jointer, this is the one.
I purchased this jointer in July '04 as a floor model clearance sale and saved a bundle.They're not hard to find and a little talking saved me $150 on the jointer and wheeledstand.
Don't wait!

A great small jointer!
This machine handles it's work load very well. It's only draw back is a poor dust collection system. The enclosed stand makes this machine rate a 5.

A great small jointer!
This machine handles it's work load very well. It's only draw back is a poor dust collection system. The enclosed stand makes this machine rate a 5. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Jointers    2. Bench-Top Jointers    3. (Portable)    4. Stationary Jointers   

Features

• Center mounted fence adjusts quickly and easily for less down time
• Easy to adjust infeed table for fast set up
• Extra large table to support stock up to a full 6" wide
• 10 amp induction motor for smooth, powerful cutting action
• Two-year limited warranty on machines, parts, and accessories

Reviews (25)

good for the money
I purchased this jointer about 5 years ago. I am a semi-pro woodworker, and I use the machine at least twice a week. I do agree with the other reviewers about it's shortcomings, but you get what you pay for. Don't expect floor model results from a benchtop machine. I set the fence at 90 deg when I purchased it and it has stayed true. I set the depth of cut at 1/64 in and keep it there, it does a great job.

I give it 4 stars because it is EXTREMELY LOUD, and it does tend to bog down a bit with hardwood when jointing more than a 64th of an in.

For the money, it has served me well.

Nice little machine
I have owned this machine for about 2yrs.If you have a small shop it works perfect. I set the fence once and it has stayed true. I cant count how many times I have used this little machine and fineley have to replace the blades. It is very portable.I have it hooked up to my dust collecter and it takes all the wood chips like it is soposed to. For the money it is a nice little unit

DO NOT BUY
I gave it one star becuase Zero was not an option!

I plead with you not to waste your money on this Jointer. The fence adjustment construction is unstable and the fence wobbles giving you out of square cuts every time.

Maybe I'll use mine as a food processor!

Delta makes great products but they missed the boat on this one. Spend a little more on a floor model. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Jointers    2. Bench-Top Jointers    3. (Portable)   

Editorial Review

Small shop? Limited budget? That doesn't mean you have to give up onowning a jointer. This Shopmaster model is perfect for either situation but still packsfeatures for precision woodworking. Variable speed offers 6,000 to 11,000 rpm,adjustable at the touch of a dial; infeed and outfeed tables adjust smoothly and easily.Though the 30-inch bed is shorter than stationary models, you aren't losing anything inwidth, because the JT160's cutting capacity is a full 6-1/8 inches. The fence, shorter andlighter, of course, than stationary models, tilts 0 to 45 degrees outward for beveling andchamfering operations. Positive stops are at 45 and 90 degrees. One sure advantage overits big brothers: the JT160 weighs just 35 pounds. Its cutterhead uses two knives ratherthan three, and the knives level with an easy-to-adjust jackscrew. Rubber base pads keepthis little fellow where you want him, and if you want a permanent home for it, a stand isavailable. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• 2-year limited warranty on machines, parts, and accessories
• 10-amp, 120-volt motor for smooth, powerful cutting action
• Center-mounted fence adjusts quickly and easily for less down time
• Easy to adjust infeed table for fast set up
• Extra large table to support stock up to a full 6" wide

Reviews (38)

Put Your money toward something better
I'm on my second Delta jointer planer. The first planer was delivered with a bent in-feed table. The table was bent one half an inch down at the end of the table and had a large chip in the table top. It looked so bad I just look at it and shook my head in disbelief. I sent it back, then I re-ordered. The second jointer came with two cracked tables plus a dent in the edge of the out-feed table. Both tables had a dip in the center of over 24000 of an inch plus some nicks in the top's. It was useless to me. If you pay your hard earned money for a tool and that tool does not do the job it was intended to do then it's junk and not worth the money you paid. I was really wanting this to be a good jointer because it was just the right size for my shop and was not that heavy. I guess you just can't beat Cast Iron.
Don't waste you time on this Cheap Delta unit. Everyone that gave this unit a bad report was right. I should of listened.

You could "Roll One" on the Surface of this Thing
It may be good enough for a pot-head to roll a joint on(especially if the boss is paying for it). I went through two of them in a month's time. A dopehead will hang out in the shop for days and milk you dry before he tells you that it broke down, or that he cannot change the blades on the aluminum head once they have worn down a bit. The bolts won't come out of the aluminum drum in order for you to change the blades.
Of course, it worked just long enough for me to put a little faith in it, as Delta rests on it's laurels and it's "American-Made" name of old. But of course, it's made in China now.
Don't buy this thing, and don't hire any "American-Made" dope-heads. The combination would drain your checkbook in a very short time.
-A Professional Woodworker since 1985

For the modest price, it's well-made and a good value
Well-packed, clear instructions, minimal assembly and no need for any adjustments to the cutter. The fence is a bit stiff and awkward to adjust and fine-tune to the table but it's a reasonable trade-off given the unit's low price and other features. You'll just need to be a bit more deliberate and patient in setting it up if your needs demand frequent changes away from 90 degrees. The unit is reasonably quiet and surprisingly vibration free. Since it's so light in weight, I was able to use mine clamped to a B&D Workmate with no movement or problems. I took a rough piece of 1x2 and planed all 4 sides into a very nice, smooth finished product. Chips flew out mostly in the direction of the feed and onto the floor nearby so you'll definitely need a shop vacuum afterwards. Again, all things being equal, this unit is a good alternative for woodworkers like myself who are terribly short on shop space and working with a very limited equipment budget. The Pros will, no doubt, require and demand bigger and better and that's okay. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Jointers    2. Bench-Top Jointers    3. (Portable)