The DeWALT DW680K is a top-tier electric hand planer that has garnered praise for its robust power and exceptional precision, making it a preferred choice for both seasoned woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts. Equipped with a potent 7.0 Amp motor, this planer operates at a speed of 15,000 rotations per minute, ensuring efficient and smooth finishes on a variety of wood types. Whether dealing with soft pine or dense hardwood, the DW680K handles the task with ease, showcasing its versatility across a wide range of carpentry projects.

Key Features

Motor and Performance

The planer is equipped with a robust 7.0 Amp motor, delivering a high-speed performance of up to 15,000 RPM. This powerful motor guarantees a smooth and consistent finish across a variety of materials, making it suitable for both fine woodworking and heavy-duty tasks. The tool’s impressive motor capacity allows it to handle a maximum cutting depth of 3/32 inches, minimizing the need for multiple passes over the workpiece and thereby enhancing efficiency.

Blades and Cutting

This planer is designed to accommodate reversible carbide blades, making it exceptionally versatile for detailed woodworking tasks such as straight edging, beveling, and framing. These carbide blades are known for their durability and sharpness, allowing for precise cuts and long-term performance. Additionally, the blades are re-sharpenable, which significantly extends the lifespan of the tool and maintains its cutting efficiency. The ability to switch and sharpen blades ensures that the planer remains effective and cost-efficient over time.

Ease of Use

Designed with user comfort in mind, the planer features a convenient depth adjustment knob, allowing for precise and consistent settings with minimal effort. The inclusion of a two-finger trigger reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use, enhancing user comfort and control. The tool’s lightweight and ergonomic design further contribute to its ease of handling, making it ideal for both professional job sites and DIY home projects. Its compact size guarantees that it can be easily maneuvered in tight spaces, providing versatility in various work environments.

Portability

Weighing in at just 6.2 pounds, the DW680K is exceptionally lightweight, facilitating easy transport and reducing strain during use. The planer comes with a rugged carrying case, designed to protect the tool during transportation and storage. This carrying case adds an extra layer of convenience, ensuring that the planer is always ready for use, whether on the job site or in the workshop.

Specifications Overview

Pros and Cons of the DW680K Planer

Pros

• High Durability The DW680K Planer is celebrated for its durable build, allowing it to endure heavy use while maintaining high performance. Users frequently highlight the tool’s longevity, even when subjected to demanding conditions. This durability translates into long-term savings, as the tool requires fewer repairs or replacements, making it a cost-effective choice for both amateur and professional woodworkers.
• Ease of Setup and Operation Designed with user-friendliness in mind, the DW680K Planer is straightforward to set up and operate. This makes it suitable for beginners who are new to woodworking, while still fulfilling the requirements of more experienced users. The simplicity in setup and operation ensures less downtime and a more efficient workflow, allowing users to focus more on their projects rather than struggling with the tool.
• Depth Control One of the standout features of the DW680K Planer is its front knob, which allows precise control over the cutting depth. This adjustability is crucial for various woodworking tasks, ranging from light trimming to deeper cuts. The feature to easily adjust the cutting depth enhances the tool’s versatility and precision, enabling users to achieve the desired finish on a variety of materials.

Cons

• Lack of Dust Collection The most notable drawback of the DW680K Planer is its lack of a built-in dust collection system. During operation, this can lead to a messy work area as wood shavings and debris are not contained. This absence requires users to spend additional time on cleanup and may necessitate investing in a separate dust collection system to maintain a tidy workspace. This can be an inconvenience, particularly for those who prioritize cleanliness and efficiency in their working environment.

Prices and Where to Buy the DW680K Planer

The DW680K Planer is a popular choice among woodworkers for its reliability and performance. Here’s a guide on its current prices and where you can purchase it:

Prices

The price of the DW680K Planer can vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions or discounts. As of now, the average price range is between $150 and $200. It is advisable to check multiple retailers to find the best deal.

Where to Buy

• Amazon
  • Price: Approximately $159.99
  • Link: Amazon – DW680K Planer
  • Benefits: Amazon offers competitive pricing, customer reviews, and fast shipping options.
• Home Depot
  • Price: Approximately $169.00
  • Link: Home Depot – DW680K Planer
  • Benefits: Home Depot often has in-store pickup options and frequent sales or discounts for registered members.
• Lowe’s
  • Price: Approximately $179.00
  • Link: Lowe’s – DW680K Planer
  • Benefits: Lowe’s offers price matching and loyalty programs that can provide additional savings.
• Walmart
  • Price: Approximately $155.00
  • Link: Walmart – DW680K Planer
  • Benefits: Walmart has competitive pricing and various shipping options, including free shipping on many items.
• Acme Tools
  • Price: Approximately $169.99
  • Link: Acme Tools – DW680K Planer
  • Benefits: Acme Tools often has promotional offers and free shipping on orders over a certain amount.

Conclusion

The DeWALT DW680K Planer stands out as a highly recommended tool, praised for its robust performance and reliable features. Its powerful 7.0 Amp motor, capable of reaching 15,000 RPM, ensures smooth and uniform finishes, making it suitable for a number of woodworking tasks. The precision offered by its depth control knob and the ease of use facilitated by its user-friendly design contribute to its appeal among both novice and experienced woodworkers.

Despite the absence of a built-in dust collector, which can lead to a messier workspace, the DW680K compensates with its overall functionality and convenience. The tool’s lightweight construction, at just 6.2 pounds, combined with its compact design, makes it easy to handle and transport. Additionally, the inclusion of reversible carbide blades that can be re-sharpened enhances the tool’s longevity and efficiency.

This planer is particularly appreciated for its ability to deliver professional-grade results, making it a worthy investment for anyone serious about woodworking. Whether for job sites or home projects, the DW680K offers a reliable and efficient solution that meets high standards of quality and performance.

Key Takeaways

1. Powerful Motor: The DeWALT DW680K Planer features a 7.0 Amp motor that delivers up to 15,000 RPM, ensuring efficient and smooth cutting across various materials.
2. Precision Cutting: The depth adjustment knob allows for precise control over the cutting depth, making it versatile for different woodworking tasks.
3. Durability: Built to withstand extensive use, the DW680K is known for its long-lasting performance and robust construction.
4. User-Friendly Design: The planer is easy to set up and operate, suitable for both beginners and experienced woodworkers. Its lightweight and compact design enhance its portability.
5. Blade Efficiency: Compatible with reversible carbide blades that can be re-sharpened, the tool maintains its sharpness and effectiveness over time.
6. Lack of Dust Collection: One notable downside is the absence of a built-in dust collector, which can lead to a messier workspace and require additional cleanup.
7. Portability: Weighing only 6.2 pounds, the DW680K is easy to transport, and it comes with a rugged carrying case for added convenience and protection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What type of motor does the DW680K Planer have?

A: The DW680K Planer features a 7.0 Amp motor capable of reaching 15,000 RPM, providing a powerful and efficient cutting performance.

Q: Can the cutting depth be adjusted on the DW680K Planer?

A: Yes, the planer has a depth adjustment knob that allows precise control over the cutting depth, making it suitable for various woodworking tasks.

Q: Are the blades on the DW680K Planer replaceable or re-sharpenable?

A: The planer is compatible with reversible carbide blades, which can be re-sharpened to maintain their effectiveness over time.