First Impressions: Sturdy Build and Professional Quality
When it comes to custom woodworking projects, having the right tools is essential. The DeWalt DW735 13 Inch 2 Speed Planer fills the gap between smaller, underpowered planers and larger, industrial ones. This upgrade became necessary as we took on more custom work involving hardwoods like mahogany for desks, credenzas, dining tables, and even custom doors.
Upon receiving the DeWalt DW735 planer, we were immediately struck by its size and weight. Weighing at 92 pounds, it’s heavier than most bench planers we’ve used before. However, the large and heavy build is a testament to its durability and power. To accommodate its weight, we quickly built a rolling base for easy maneuverability.
The build quality of the DeWalt DW735 was evident as soon as we opened the box. The cast aluminum base and solid molded plastic casing indicated that this planer had crossed over from small-scale to professional-grade machinery.
Dual Speed for Precision and Efficiency
One standout feature of the DeWalt DW735 is its two feed speeds. Speed 1 is perfect for quick thickness planing, making 179 cuts per inch for a smooth finish. Speed 2, on the other hand, increases the feed rate to 96 cuts per inch, allowing for faster lumber size determination. Initially, we questioned the need for the finishing speed, but we found ourselves using it more than expected. The smooth surface produced on the final pass of each board significantly reduced sanding time.
Effective Dust Collection
DeWalt made sure to address the issue of wood chips with the DW735. They added a built-in blower that efficiently removes wood chips from the blade. However, it’s important to use a dust collector to prevent wood chips from flying all over the place during operation. We connected our shop dust collection unit to the planer and experienced great results. The removal of dust and shavings from the blade also prolongs its lifespan.
Convenient Planing Depth Setting
When working with rough cut lumber from lumber yards, achieving consistent thickness can be a challenge. The depth setting dial on the DeWalt DW735 proved to be incredibly handy in such cases. With several incremental depth stops from 1/8″ to 1-1/4″, we were able to plane multiple planks of reclaimed oak into a precise 1-1/4″ thick table top.
Easy Blade Replacement
Blade replacement is a breeze with the DeWalt DW735. The planer comes with a convenient Allen key for loosening the screws on the plastic cover and the blade itself. Once the cover is removed, there is plenty of room inside the cutter head to access and replace the blade. The Allen key even features magnets on the handle for effortless blade removal.
Impressive Power and Precision in Performance
The true test of any planer lies in its power and precision. The DeWalt DW735 proved itself to be a workhorse. With a powerful 15-amp, 20,000 RPM motor, it easily handles larger cuts on wider materials. We put it to the test with various hardwood species like ash, reclaimed oak, and mahogany. Even after planing nearly 70 feet of 2″ mahogany to 1-1/2″, the planer showed no signs of overloading or slowing down.
Precision is crucial when it comes to thickness planing, and the DW735 delivers. The extra-large handwheel allows for small depth changes, with each full turn adjusting the depth of cut by 1/16″. This precision makes it easy to achieve a depth of 1/64″ with just a quarter turn. Additionally, the four threaded posts that support the bit minimize sniping, while the three-blade head spins at 10,000 RPM for smooth cutting.
Pricing and Final Thoughts
As with any upgrade, the DeWalt DW735 comes with a price tag. At $629, it’s not a budget option. However, for those serious about their woodworking projects, it is a worthwhile investment. The DW735 delivers on power, precision, and durability, making it an ideal upgrade from low-powered bench planers. After running multiple lumber projects through this planer, we can confidently say it does an exceptional job.
DeWalt DW735 13-Inch Planer Key Features
- Powerful 15 amp, 20,000 RPM motor for handling larger cuts
- Three-knife head with 10,000 RPM speed for extended tool life and easy changes
- Two-speed gearbox for optimal feed rates at 96 or 179 cuts per inch
- Fan-assisted chip removal to keep the blade clean
- 19-3/4″ cast aluminum base for stability and rigidity
- Automatic carriage lock for reduced sniping
- Material removal gauge and oversized thickness scale for accurate cuts
- Oversized turret depth stop for quick return to commonly used thicknesses
DeWalt DW735 Planer Specifications
- Model: DeWalt DW735
- Amps: 15.0 Amps
- No-load speed: 20,000 RPM (motor) / 10,000 RPM (cutter)
- Cutting times per minute: 30,000
- Drive motor system: belt drive
- Maximum cutting depth: 1/8″
- Depth Capacity: 6″
- Width Capacity: 13″
- Number of Blades: 3
- Blade Type: Planer
- Weight: 92 lbs
- Planer Type: Fixed Table
- Blade Type: Straight Blade
- CSA Certified: Yes
- Cord Length: 13.0′
- Included: Dust Hose Adapter
- Warranty: 3-year limited
- Price: $629
With the DeWalt DW735, you can elevate your woodworking projects to the next level. Its power, precision, and durability make it a reliable tool for professionals and hobbyists alike. While the price might be steep, the performance it delivers justifies the investment. Once you’ve experienced the benefits of the DW735, you won’t want to go back to smaller models.