Thread: Combo Machine or Jointer?

Hi All

I am getting a nice little pressie from the tax man and I have been hanging out for a jointer! I have a el cheapo thicknesser from Carba Tec which to be honest for my box making has been ok...not great but I get buy...hey it was cheap like a budgie!!! lol!

Anyway...now that I am getting into making better boxes and my skills are improving I am finding it more and more fustrating milling my own lumber.

So I am keen on the Jet Combo Thicknesser but have heard varied reports about the entry level JPT-260, it looks like a cracking little unit but the outfeed table is not adjustable? (apparentley!) and I read one report that a chap purchased one but had to return it because the tables were not in co-plane or something to that effect.

The JPT-360 is a better machine with more adjustability but its $3500 and I cant afford that.

So the question in my mind is:

Do I go the JPT260? On paper it suits my needs, I am not at the level where I am making furniture, but I love making nice boxes and picture frames. with the strong aussie dollar I will probably pick one up for about $1900.

Or do I go a solid 8' jointer Carba Tec $1200 or Jet $1800 approx and save up for a half decent thicknesser? get by with my little Carba Tec el cheapo!? The thing I like about Jointers is the heavy weight, solid build.

Mmmm then again having the jointer...thicknesser in one machine is so awesome for a small shop.

If it was your $2k what would you do...?

Your input and comments would be appreciated!

Cheers

Milo