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There is something exciting and exhilarating about woodworking that is tough to describe. Part of it is seeing the object take shape as you go through the steps of creating something out of wood.
Another part of it is the enjoyment of getting your hands dirty. Of using your tools to make something useful for yourself or someone you care about. It’s the thought that you’re putting a part of yourself into the project no matter how monumental or insignificant the object may seem.
This is true for both novice and experienced woodworkers. So, whether you’re just getting started into the world of woodworking or you’re already familiar with the craft, you may need to consider adding a jointer to your lineup of tools.
Fortunately, there are plenty of jointers on the markets and reviews for each of them. But we’re guessing you may not have time to read all of them. However, we’ve done the work for you in the shape of this review.
Our review focuses on the Cutech Jointer. We’ll talk about a few ways to determine which jointer is right for you, along with some of the benefits and drawbacks of this jointer.
Is the Cutech jointer the right one for you? Let’s find out.
Types of Jointers
There are a variety of jointers, which will help you know which type of jointer you need for your workshop. This could depend on how much space you have for storage, along with how much you plan on using it.
Let’s run through a quick overview of the different types of jointers.
First up are the closed stand jointers. These come in 6, 8, 12, or 16-inch options. With an enclosed base, closed stand jointers are a little heavier than their counterparts, but they provide additional protection for the motor from dust and other debris.
Next up are open stand jointers. While these are easier to move around because they’re lighter, they also leave the motor exposed. These types of jointers are usually louder than other options as well.
Last up are the benchtop jointers, which are smaller than the other types of jointers we’ve talked about already. That’s because they are designed so that they sit on top or your workbench. Benchtop jointers are also enclosed, which helps to keep the motor clean and running well.
Since they are smaller and more easily transferable than the other types of jointers, benchtops are typically preferred by those who have smaller woodworking areas. The Cutech jointer is this type of jointer.
What to Look For
When choosing the jointer that works best for you, you may want to take a moment and consider a few factors that can play into your decision. These could include ease of use, size, power, and accessibility to spare parts.
Cutech jointers do well in some of these categories, but also have areas for improvement. However, bear in mind that this jointer may not meet all your needs. For everyday users, the Cutech jointer may not get the job done.
With that in mind, here are some factors to consider when you decide which jointer works best for you.
Ease of Setup
If you know exactly where you’re going to keep your jointer, then this may not apply as much. However, if you plan on setting it up each time you use it, you’ll want a unit that’s easy to set up and tear down.
Do a little research and determine what complaints there are about setting up the jointer you’re considering.
Cutech – Ease of Setup
The Cutech jointer includes instructions that help with set up. Plus, the unit has an adjustable bed, which is easy to use, along with other features that like a 90 to 135-degree tilt. These features make the Cutech jointer one of the easiest bench jointers on the market to set up.
Blade Quality
The next thing you may want to consider as you look for a jointer is the quality of the blades. This is an essential aspect of any jointer, and it’s unfortunate how many bench jointers fall short of the mark in regard to blade quality.
Cutech Blade Quality
When it comes to blade quality, Cutech jointers are no slouch. They can handle cutting through any wood, although harder woods like maple can give Cutech units some trouble. With a Cutech jointer, users get a 6-inch spiral blade along with cutting inserts.
The purpose of this type of design is to allow users the ability to rotate out blades as needed. If one is damaged or worn down, you can easily remove it and insert a fresh one. This is definitely one of the most appealing features available on the Cutech jointer.
Weight
With power tools, you want to have a unit that will last a long time. However, the problem with portable jointers is that these are typically built lightweight, which means they are sacrificing strength and durability.
Cutech Weight
Even though the Cutech jointer is a benchtop tool, it still checks in at a little more than 40 pounds. However, the Cutech receives good grades for both its strength and its weight. It’s evident that the company specifically targeted this type of issue with the design of its jointers.
Size
Benchtop jointers are best when they come in a small or medium size. The vast majority of manufacturers provide 6-inch benchtop jointers, however, there are some that make 8-inch jointers for those who want something a little bigger.
Cutech Size
Cutech jointers come in both 6 and 8-inch options. Plus, the extendable tables available make it easier if you’re involved with a project that requires longer boards.
Maintenance
How much of a challenge is it to take the unit apart when you want to clean it? Is there a dust bag included for collecting sawdust? Can you easily clean it out with a vacuum cleaner? Are additional parts and accessories easily obtainable?
Cutech Maintenance
The answers to these questions are mixed when it comes to Cutech jointers. While they don’t come with collection bags for sawdust, they are easy to clean with a vacuum cleaner. Additionally, you can find spare parts at a reasonable price with a quick online search.
Power
Cutting wood requires power and if you plan on cutting anything other than a softwood like pine, then you’re going to need plenty of power to do so.
Cutech Power
This is an area where Cutech delivers. Whether you choose to go with the 6-inch or 8-inch option, you’ll get a 120-volt motor that packs plenty of power.
Pros and Cons
No tool is perfect, so let’s take a look at the pros and cons of the Cutech jointer.
Pros
- Easy to maintain and clean with a shop vac
- High-quality blades
- Powerful
- Easy to find replacement parts online
- Multiple size options
- Well-built and not too heavy
- Setup is easy and simple
Cons
- Does not come with a bag for collecting dust
- Noisier than other jointers
- May have some trouble cutting harder woods like maple
Alternatives
If for some reason you find that the Cutech jointer won’t work for your needs, here are a few units that might work.
Jet JJP-8BT
This jointer is great if you like to work with wider lumber, as it offers an 8-inch capacity. It’s one of the more cost-efficient jointers on the market, and its footprint won’t take up a lot of room in your woodworking area.
Combination benchtop jointer and planer provides a 2-in-1 machine to maximize work space. Large aluminum-extruded fence makes joining stable and precise.
Rikon 20-600H
The Rikon is a great jointer option as it provides 12 double-sided inserts, which allows for using smoother materials. You can easily adjust the height of this unit, which makes things simpler when you’re ready to remove material after each pass.
Rikon Benchtop Jointer - This 6” becnhtop jointer has a 6 row helical-style cutter head with 12 HSS, 2-insert cutters for super cutting action.
Porter-Cable PC160JT
Users get both a powerful motor and variable speed control with the Porter-Cable PC160JT jointer. It works well with various hardwoods and lumber of all different types. The PC160JT is lightweight, which makes it easy to keep and store if your shop is on the smaller side.
Variable 6, 000 to 11, 000 RPM speed range allows the user to select the right speed for the size and hardness of material being cut. Two knife cutter head with jack screw knife leveling arrangement for easy replacement and adjustment of knives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cutech is a company located in Memphis, Tennessee. It is a combination of the words “cutterhead” and “technology” which comes from the idea that the company provides jointers with the best cutterheads in the jointer and planer market.
This is a question you might be asking if you’re new to woodworking and definitely one worth exploring. A planer is a tool used by woodworkers to create various wood pieces with a given thickness.
A planer is ideal for getting all boards you use for your project to the same size. So, for example, if you’re building a cabinet or a table, the face of each will be nice and even.
By comparison, a jointer is used to make a flat surface on the face or edge of a plank. Despite its name, a jointer does not actually create joints. What it does is ensure that no gaps are created between planks after they have been put together.
If you’re a fairly seasoned woodworker, it is possible to use a planer as a jointer. Keep in mind, however, that it can be on the tricky side. There are plenty of tutorials and videos available online that will show you how to use your planer as a jointer.
This can be done if you’re in a pinch and need a substitute for your jointer, however, if you plan on doing projects that require a jointer, it just makes more sense to get the tool you need to get the job done right.
You should probably have both if you’re planning on doing many woodworking projects. Planers aren’t typically used for creating a square, flat edges, which is a must-have if you want to build anything that requires accuracy and precision.
With a jointer, you’ll get a single, flat side, along with a single, square edge. Additionally, keep in mind that you’ll want to joint the face prior to edging. This is done to ensure that the face is flat and the edge is square.
Now, you’re ready to start planing. You can plane the opposite face of your board, which will result in a flat and even board with two faces parallel to one another. Once you have you wood planed to the appropriate thickness, you can use your jointer again to finish up the opposite side.
Final Thoughts – Is a Cutech Jointer the Right One for You?
Whether you’re a novice woodworker or a professional, Cutech Jointer is a solid option if you want a solid tool that’s not going to cost you an arm and a leg. You’ll get plenty of power and durability from this unit, allowing you to get your work done.
You won’t have to worry about whether or not your jointer will work in your workshop, as Cutech’s are known for their portability. It’s a great addition to woodworking areas both large and small.
Powerful 10 Amp 120V motor. Spiral Cutterhead with 12 HSS Inserts. Fence with 90 to 135 Degree Tilt.
