WEN PL1326 Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer Ultimate Review
If you’re a woodworking enthusiast looking to upgrade your workshop with a reliable and efficient benchtop thickness planer, the WEN PL1326 Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer might just be the perfect addition. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the key features, pros and cons, and real-world performance of this powerful tool, making it easier for both beginners and seasoned woodworkers to make an informed decision.
Key Features
The WEN PL1326 stands out with its spiral cutterhead equipped with 26 staggered and rotatable HSS blades. This design ensures a clean and smooth finish on both hard and soft woods. Here are some of the standout features of this planer:
- Powerful Motor: The 15-amp motor is capable of over 10,000 RPM, providing ample power to handle a variety of wood types.
- Feed Rate: With a feed rate of 26 feet per minute, it efficiently processes large quantities of wood.
- Material Removal Gauge: This onboard gauge helps in precise material removal, ensuring consistent results.
- Depth Stop: For enhanced precision, the depth stop feature allows for repetitive cuts at the same depth.
- Adjustable Dust Port: The dust port can be adjusted to keep your workspace clean and free from debris.
WEN PL1326 Thickness Planer Review Video
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Initial Testing & Setup
Setting up the WEN PL1326 is straightforward, even for beginners. During the initial testing phase, we used a scrap piece of pine and some pallet wood to evaluate its performance. The infeed and outfeed tables were level right out of the box, eliminating the need for adjustments and making the setup process hassle-free.
Real-World Performance
When put to the test on real projects, the WEN PL1326 delivered impressive results. Here are some of the key observations:
Pros
- Ease of Use: The infeed and outfeed tables are decently sized, reducing the occurrence of snipe, even on longer boards.
- Precision: The depth gauge is easy to use, allowing for quick and accurate adjustments.
- Build Quality: The planer is well-made and sturdy, ensuring durability.
- Finish Quality: It produces a super clean finish on the boards, making even pallet wood look exceptionally good.
Cons
- Dust Collection: The dust collection system could benefit from better documentation and design to prevent blockages.
- Storage Issues: The outfeed table and dust collection port can clash when storing the unit.
- Handling Large Pieces: If the planer is pushed to its maximum capacity, it can leave imprints on the wood that resemble fish scales. This can be corrected with additional planning but is worth noting.
Final Thoughts
Before purchasing the WEN PL1326, we compared it with other models like the Dewalt spiral planer. Despite Dewalt’s higher price point, the WEN PL1326 proved to be a cost-effective and high-performing alternative. It offers great value and produces a high-quality finish on any wood you put through it.
Conclusion
The WEN PL1326 15-Amp 13-Inch Spiral Benchtop Thickness Planer is an excellent choice for woodworkers of all skill levels. Its combination of power, precision, and ease of use makes it a valuable addition to any workshop. Whether you’re a beginner looking to invest in your first planer or an experienced woodworker seeking an upgrade, the WEN PL1326 won’t disappoint.
