Best Planer Blades

A planer is an essential power tool for any woodworker or carpenter. It helps in smoothing rough surfaces, straightening edges, and achieving uniform thickness for various woodworking tasks. Planer blades are the cutting component of the planer that determines the quality of the final output. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when purchasing planer blades in 2023, ensuring that you make an informed decision and invest in the best product for your needs.

Types of Planer Blades

There are three main types of planer blades available in the market:

• Straight Blades: Straight blades are the most common and traditional type of planer blades. They are flat, long, and typically made of high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide. Straight blades are best suited for light to medium-duty woodworking tasks.
• Helical Blades: Helical blades, also known as spiral blades, have a unique twisted design that enables them to create a shearing cut. This results in a smoother finish and reduced tear-out compared to straight blades. They are typically made of carbide and are suitable for heavy-duty woodworking tasks.
• Segmented Blades: Segmented blades are essentially helical blades cut into smaller, individual sections. These sections can be rotated or replaced independently, which makes them more flexible and cost-effective. Segmented blades are suitable for both medium and heavy-duty woodworking tasks.

Materials

The two main materials used to manufacture planer blades are:

• High-Speed Steel (HSS): HSS blades are more affordable and have a reasonable lifespan. They are suitable for light to medium-duty woodworking tasks. However, they are less durable and prone to losing their sharpness faster than carbide blades.
• Carbide: Carbide blades are more expensive but offer superior durability, sharpness, and cutting performance. They are suitable for medium to heavy-duty woodworking tasks and last longer than HSS blades.

Blade Size and Compatibility

It is important to choose the correct blade size and ensure compatibility with your planer. Check your planer's user manual or manufacturer's website for information on the appropriate blade size and type. Planer blades typically range from 6 inches to 20 inches in length.

Blade Sharpness and Cutting Performance

Sharpness is a crucial factor that affects the quality of the cut and the lifespan of the blade. Carbide blades generally hold their edge longer than HSS blades, resulting in better cutting performance. However, the sharpness of a blade can also be influenced by the quality of the manufacturing process and the blade's design.

Reversible and Disposable Blades

Reversible blades have a cutting edge on both sides, allowing them to be flipped over when one edge becomes dull. This can significantly extend the blade's life and reduce the frequency of replacements. Disposable blades, on the other hand, are replaced entirely once they become dull. They are typically more affordable but may require more frequent replacements, depending on their quality and usage.

Blade Sets vs. Individual Blades

Planer blades can be purchased individually or in sets. Sets usually include multiple blades, which can be more cost-effective than buying individual blades. If you plan to use your planer frequently, consider investing in a set to save money in the long run.

Price Range and Budget

Planer blades can vary significantly in price, depending on factors such as material, type, and brand. HSS blades are generally more affordable, while carbide blades tend to be more expensive. Determine your budget and prioritize factors such as durability, cutting performance, and compatibility when selecting a blade.

Maintenance and Blade Replacement

Proper maintenance and timely replacement of planer blades are essential for optimal performance and longevity. Regularly inspect your blades for signs of wear and damage, and replace them when necessary. Some blades can be resharpened, which can extend their lifespan. However, this may not be cost-effective or practical for all blade types.

Top 5 Best Planer Blades of 2023：

1. Freud C400 High-Speed Steel Planer Blades

Freud is a well-known brand in the woodworking industry, and their C400 High-Speed Steel Planer Blades are a testament to their reputation for quality. These blades are made from high-speed steel, ensuring durability and long-lasting sharpness.

Features:

• Made from high-speed steel for increased durability and sharpness
• Compatible with most portable planers
• Available in a variety of sizes to fit your planer

Pros:

• Provides a smooth and precise cut on both hardwoods and softwoods
• Easy to install and replace
• Maintains sharpness for an extended period

Cons:

• May require more frequent sharpening than carbide blades
• Slightly more expensive than other high-speed steel blades

2. DEWALT DW7352-2 Carbide Planer Blades

The DEWALT DW7352-2 Carbide Planer Blades are engineered for high performance and durability. These carbide blades are specifically designed for the DEWALT DW735 planer, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal cutting performance.

Features:

• Made from carbide for increased durability and sharpness
• Designed for DEWALT DW735 planers
• Reversible for increased lifespan

Pros:

• Provides a smooth and precise cut on hardwoods and softwoods
• Extremely durable and long-lasting
• Easy to install and replace

Cons:

• Only compatible with DEWALT DW735 planers
• More expensive than high-speed steel blades

3. POWERTEC HSS Planer Blades

POWERTEC HSS Planer Blades offer a cost-effective solution for those looking for high-quality planer blades without the high price tag. Made from high-speed steel, these blades provide a smooth cut and are compatible with various planer models.

Features:

• Made from high-speed steel for durability and sharpness
• Compatible with multiple planer models
• Available in various sizes to fit your planer

Pros:

• Provides a smooth and precise cut on both hardwoods and softwoods
• Affordable pricing
• Easy to install and replace

Cons:

• May require more frequent sharpening than carbide blades
• Not as durable as carbide blades

4. Byrd Tool Shelix Carbide Planer Blades

The Byrd Tool Shelix Carbide Planer Blades are a premium option for those looking for top-of-the-line performance and durability. These helical spiral cutterheads are designed to provide a smooth and precise cut, reducing tear-out and improving the overall finish of your workpiece.

Features:

• Made from carbide for increased durability and sharpness
• Helical spiral cutterhead design for reduced tear-out and improved finish
• Compatible with various planer models

Pros:

• Provides an exceptionally smooth and precise cut
• Extremely durable and long-lasting
• Reduces tear-out for improved workpiece finish

Cons:

• Significantly more expensive than other planer blades
• May require professional installation

5. Makita D-46230 High-Speed Steel Planer Blades

Makita is another well-known brand in the woodworking industry. Their D-46230 High-Speed Steel Planer Blades are a solid choice for those looking for a balance between performance and affordability. These blades are compatible with various Makita planer models and provide a smooth cut on both hardwoods and softwoods.

Features:

• Made from high-speed steel for durability and sharpness
• Compatible with multiple Makita planer models
• Available in various sizes to fit your planer

Pros:

• Provides a smooth and precise cut
• Affordable pricing
• Easy to install and replace

Cons:

• May require more frequent sharpening than carbide blades
• Not as durable as carbide blades

Conclusion

Selecting the best planer blades for your workshop depends on your specific needs, budget, and planer model. High-speed steel blades, such as the Freud C400 or Makita D-46230, are affordable options that provide a smooth cut, but may require more frequent sharpening than carbide blades. Carbide blades, like the DEWALT DW7352-2 or Byrd Tool Shelix, are more expensive but offer increased durability, sharpness, and a smoother finish.

When choosing planer blades, make sure they are compatible with your planer model and consider the types of materials you typically work with. If you work primarily with hardwoods or require a smoother finish, investing in carbide blades may be worth the added expense. For general use or if you're on a tight budget, high-speed steel blades can still provide excellent results.

Remember, no matter which blades you choose, proper care and maintenance will significantly extend their lifespan and performance. Regularly sharpening and cleaning your blades will ensure that they continue to provide clean, precise cuts for all your woodworking projects.