Hi folks, I am hoping to buy my first planner/thicknesser and am somewhat new to this so would appreciate any help. I am also in UK so model numbers etc may not always translate to US. There is a tool show in Exeter this weekend and I hope to be able to compare the models available. I am looking at something like the Electra Beckum 260M. My spec is a machine that is movable around the shop and house, weighs less than 100Kg (say
200lbs) and will plane boards up to 10" wide. Price is obviously of some consideration and I was thinking around £700. None of these are set in stone, I want to get a machine that will suit my requirements the best. I hope that I understand the terminology. The sort of machine I am thinking of will power feed the stock under the cutter for reducing the thickness and over the cutter along a fence planning the edge square and flat. Questions: What are good and bad point of design. eg rubber feed rollers or steel? Are there any models or manufacturers that are best avoided and why? Thanks in advance for your help. I really appreciate it.John