The DeWalt DW734 thickness planer stands out as a durable and powerful choice for both novice DIYers and seasoned woodworkers looking for precision and user-friendliness in their woodworking projects. It features a robust 15-amp motor that powers a three-knife cutter head, which not only enhances the efficiency of the planer but also ensures up to 96 cuts per inch. This high cut rate results in exceptionally smooth finishes on wood surfaces, significantly diminishing the need for subsequent sanding.

This planer’s cutter head design is particularly noteworthy. The use of three knives instead of the typical two means that each blade undergoes less wear and tear per use, which extends the lifespan of the knives and maintains their sharpness longer. Additionally, this design allows for quicker removal of wood, speeding up the planing process without sacrificing the quality of the finish.

Key Features and Performance

Width and Depth Capabilities

• Max Width: 12.5 inches
• Max Depth: 6 inches

The DeWalt DW734 exhibits considerable versatility with its ability to manage materials up to 12.5 inches wide and 6 inches thick. This broad range makes it suitable for a variety of woodworking projects, from crafting large furniture pieces to handling smaller custom jobs. The substantial capacity ensures that users can process large pieces of raw lumber, reducing the need for multiple tools in the workshop.

Knife System

• Type: Disposable, reversible knives
• Number of Knives: Three
• Maintenance: Reduced

Equipped with a three-knife cutter head, the DW734 offers a significant advantage in terms of durability and maintenance. These knives are not only easy to replace but also reversible, effectively doubling their lifespan before a replacement is needed. The three-knife system enhances the planer’s performance, delivering a finer finish with fewer passes compared to traditional two-knife models. This design reduces downtime and enhances productivity, particularly when dealing with high volumes of wood processing.

Material Support

• Table Length: 33.5 inches

One of the standout features of the DW734 is its extended infeed and outfeed tables, measuring 33.5 inches each. This added length provides superior material support, which is crucial for reducing snipe—the tendency of a planer to gouge the end of a board as it passes through. By supporting the material more effectively throughout the planing process, the DW734 ensures smoother, more consistent results, especially with long or flexible pieces of wood.

Dust Collection System

• Compatibility: Shop vacuum
• Feature: Integrated dust hood

A robust dust collection system is integrated into the DW734, designed to capture the majority of sawdust and debris generated during operation. The system includes a dust hood that connects seamlessly with a standard shop vacuum, facilitating a cleaner and more efficient workspace. This feature not only maintains the cleanliness of the work area but also enhances the safety of the user by reducing airborne particles that can pose health risks.

Summary Table

Design and Usability

The DeWalt DW734 is notably robust, weighing in at 80 pounds. This substantial weight plays a crucial role in its operational stability, allowing it to handle vigorous planing tasks without excessive vibration or movement. However, this heft does impact the unit’s portability, making it less ideal for those who require a planer that needs frequent relocation.

In terms of design, the planer includes several user-friendly features that enhance its usability. One such feature is the material removal gauge, which is equipped with an easy-to-read scale. This gauge is instrumental in helping users achieve uniform thickness across woodworking passes, which is vital for tasks requiring high precision. The clear and accessible positioning of this gauge ensures that adjustments can be made quickly and accurately, streamlining the workflow and reducing the chance of errors.

Ease of Use

The user experience with the DW734 is designed to be intuitive and straightforward. Setting up the machine is a simple process, and making adjustments is uncomplicated, thanks to well-thought-out controls and mechanisms. The planer’s operation is efficient, allowing woodworkers to achieve consistent results even when making minimal adjustments between passes. This feature is mostly beneficial for projects that require repetitive tasks, as it saves time and minimizes the physical effort required by the operator.

Moreover, the planer’s design includes features like a turret depth stop and a locking mechanism for the cutter-head, which further simplifies the setup and ensures that once configured, the settings remain consistent throughout the job. These aspects of the DW734’s design make it an appealing choice for both novices and professional woodworkers looking for a reliable, high-performing tool.

Where to Buy and Price

The DeWalt DW734 thickness planer is currently available for purchase at several major retailers. You can find it on Amazon, where it’s listed with its features like a three-knife cutter head and a powerful 15 Amp motor capable of handling large, deep cuts in hardwoods. Lowe’s also offers the DW734, emphasizing its robust design and the included three-year limited warranty which ensures its durability and reliability. The cost of the product may vary based on the retailer and any current promotions or discounts they may be offering.

To find current prices and availability, please visit the product listings on the respective websites: Amazon and Lowe’s.

Advantages of the DeWalt DW734 Thickness Planer

• Material Support: The DeWalt DW734 is praised for its exceptional material support, thanks to its lengthy infeed and outfeed tables that ensure stability and precision in handling large wood pieces.
• Dust Collection Efficiency: The integrated dust collection system is highly efficient, keeping the workspace clean and free from sawdust, which is a significant advantage for maintaining a healthy work environment.
• Ease of Knife Maintenance: The planer’s knives are both disposable and reversible, which simplifies maintenance and extends the life of the knives, making it cost-effective and convenient for users.
• Robust Construction: Built to last, the sturdy construction of the DW734 ensures it can withstand rigorous use in a busy workshop, making it a dependable choice for serious woodworking projects.

Limitations of the DeWalt DW734 Thickness Planer

• Weight and Portability: At 80 pounds, the DW734 is relatively heavy, which might limit its portability. This makes it less ideal for those who need a more mobile solution.
• Noise Level: Some users may find the DW734 louder than other models, which could be a consideration in environments where noise is a concern.
• Cost Considerations: The initial purchase price is higher than some entry-level models, which could be a barrier for hobbyists or those just starting out. Additionally, the warranty not covering third-party blades can increase the long-term operational costs due to the need for more expensive, official blades.

Overall Verdict

The DeWalt DW734 stands out as a robust and reliable thickness planer that balances performance, ease of use, and durability effectively. It is capable of handling various types of wood with precision, making it an invaluable tool in any workshop. Although not suited for industrial-scale projects, it offers excellent performance for woodworking enthusiasts and small professional shops. The investment in the DW734 can significantly enhance project quality and workflow efficiency, making it a worthwhile acquisition despite a few drawbacks.

Key Takeaways

1. Robust Construction: The DW734 is designed for durability and sustained performance, making it suitable for intensive woodworking tasks.
2. Advanced Material Handling: Extended infeed and outfeed tables offer superior support for large pieces, reducing snipe and enhancing precision.
3. Efficient Dust Management: A built-in dust collection system with a vacuum-compatible hood keeps the workspace clean and minimizes cleanup time.
4. User-Friendly Maintenance: Reversible and disposable knives simplify maintenance and reduce operational costs over time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How much does the DeWalt DW734 weigh?

A: The DW734 weighs approximately 80 pounds, emphasizing stability and robustness but affecting its portability.

Q: Can I use third-party knives with the DW734?

A: Using third-party knives is possible but not recommended as it voids the warranty and could potentially affect the quality of work and safety.

Q: Is the DeWalt DW734 suitable for professional use?

A: Yes, the DW734 is suitable for professional use in small to medium-scale woodworking projects, although it might not be the best choice for industrial-scale operations.