June 10, 2025Jun 10 Popular Post On my old Delta/Rockwell 8" jointer. Going to check if I have another set of blades ready to go first, if not I think it's going to be time for a Byrd. I've been told they aren't much needed on a jointer, and generally I agree with that, a light pass does wonders. Biggest problem I've had is long, fine shavings clogging up the chute. So I've long been on the fence about this..... still am on the fence I guess.
June 10, 2025Jun 10 Don't be, it's a great addition even on a jointer. The big thing for me was it eliminated the daunting task (again, for me) of getting the knives properly aligned. But the noise level is somewhat lower, and squirrely grain problem disappear. They do take a little more power, so depending on your motor size and cutting depth you may be face jointing at a slower feed rate. Mine is 2 HP, and it hasn't made much of a difference in feed rates. So if the cost doesn't put you off, go for it. That said, I will admit they cost enough that trying to justify them is pretty tough. One othe thing, installation on a jointer is super easy; especially compared to doing it on a planer.
June 10, 2025Jun 10 Author Well, turns out I do have a set of sharp knives on the shelf. I may just wear those out first. Noise is one of the big things that makes the upgrade appealing, face jointing 8" of maple with straight knives is LOUD! I have a Byrd head in my PM100, and it was a distinct improvement, I've never regretted doing that even though it cost more than the planer did (used).
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