For years, I wrestled with uneven surfaces on my woodworking projects, relying on tedious hand planing or inconsistent results from less powerful tools. This frustrating lack of precision consistently hampered my progress and the quality of my finished pieces. I knew a good benchtop planer, like the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320, would have made a world of difference, saving me countless hours and improving the overall quality of my work.
The need for a smooth, even surface on wood is crucial for any woodworking project, from furniture making to intricate trim work. A benchtop planer addresses this need by efficiently flattening and smoothing rough lumber. However, not all planers are created equal. The ideal customer is a homeowner or hobbyist woodworker looking for a reliable, reasonably priced machine for occasional use. Individuals needing professional-grade performance or facing large-scale projects should consider more robust, heavier-duty models. Before purchasing, prioritize factors like amperage (higher is better for hardwoods), cutting depth capabilities, dust collection efficiency, and the size of the wood you’ll be planing, along with your budget and available workspace.
- Hard and soft wood material removal: 15 Amp motor provides power for both hard and soft wood material removal
- Maximum stock removal: poly-v cutterhead drive for maximum stock removal
- Smooth operation: two knife, quick change, solid steel cutter head mounted on ball bearings, assures smooth operation and long life
Introducing the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 Benchtop Planer
The CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 15 Amp Benchtop Planer promises smooth, efficient wood planing for both hardwoods and softwoods. It boasts a powerful 15-amp motor, a two-knife solid steel cutter head for long life and smooth operation, and a vacuum port for dust collection. Compared to market leaders, it offers a compelling value proposition, especially for users who don’t need the heavy-duty features of more expensive models. This planer is ideal for hobbyists and home woodworkers who need a reliable tool for smaller projects. It’s not intended for professional or high-volume use.
- Pros: Powerful 15-amp motor, easy to use, relatively affordable, good for various wood types, decent dust collection.
- Cons: Can experience snipe (though easily mitigated with proper technique), stamped metal in/out-feed tables could be improved, dust collection isn’t perfect.
- The 3-speed selector of DEWALT 20V tools allows users to choose their speed setting based on application.
- The 3-speed selector of DEWALT 20V tools allows users to choose their speed setting based on application.
- Powerful Motor - The 2. 2-Amp motor delivers up to 20, 000 OPM for easy cutting, sawing, trimming, grinding and sanding
A Deep Dive into the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320’s Features and Benefits
The Powerful 15 Amp Motor:
The heart of the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 is its 15-amp motor. This provides the power needed to smoothly plane both hard and soft woods. I’ve used it on everything from pine to oak, and it consistently delivers a smooth finish without bogging down. This power translates directly into efficiency: tasks that once took hours now take mere minutes, significantly speeding up my woodworking workflow. The increased speed allows me to accomplish more in less time, enhancing my overall productivity and enjoyment of the craft.
The Two-Knife Solid Steel Cutter Head:
The two-knife solid steel cutter head is a key feature that contributes to the planer’s smooth operation and long cutting life. The knives are double-edged and reversible, extending their lifespan considerably. I’ve found them to stay sharp for a surprisingly long time, minimizing the need for frequent adjustments or replacements. The high-quality steel used in the cutter head ensures durability and consistent performance, making the investment worthwhile in the long run. The smooth cutting action reduces tear-out, producing a cleaner, more professional finish on my projects. The ease of changing the blades is also appreciated, reducing downtime during maintenance.
The Depth Adjustment Mechanism:
Precise depth adjustment is critical for a planer, allowing for multiple passes to achieve the desired smoothness. The CRAFTSMAN CMEW320‘s depth adjustment mechanism is straightforward and reliable. I’ve found it easy to dial in the precise amount of material removal needed for each project, even on thicker boards. This control greatly minimizes the risk of removing too much wood in a single pass, preventing damage to the workpiece. The ability to finely adjust the depth of cut is vital for achieving a smooth, consistent finish, and this planer delivers in that aspect.
Effective (Though Not Perfect) Dust Collection:
The integrated vacuum port is a significant plus. While not a perfect dust-free solution, it does a respectable job of capturing a large portion of the shavings. While I still use a shop vac alongside it for more complete dust removal, the built-in port makes a noticeable difference in keeping my workspace cleaner than previous planing methods. For most woodworking tasks, this level of dust control is quite sufficient. A cleaner workspace enhances safety, making the experience more enjoyable and productive.
In-Feed and Out-Feed Tables:
While functional, the stamped metal in-feed and out-feed tables are a point where the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 could be improved. They are adequate for the price point, but some users, including myself, have found them to need minor adjustments for perfect levelness. While a minor inconvenience, I consider it more of a suggestion for improvement than a major flaw. The overall value and performance of the planer still outweigh this relatively small shortcoming.
Real-World Experiences with the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320
Online reviews consistently highlight the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320‘s ease of use and powerful performance. Many users praise its ability to quickly and efficiently plane various types of wood, resulting in smooth, even surfaces. While some mention initial setup adjustments and the occasional occurrence of snipe (easily avoided with proper technique), the overall consensus points to a highly satisfactory tool for home woodworkers.
Final Verdict: Why the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 is a Worthy Investment
The persistent problem of uneven wood surfaces negatively impacts woodworking projects, leading to frustrating results and wasted time. The CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 Benchtop Planer effectively addresses this by providing a powerful, easy-to-use tool for achieving smooth, consistent surfaces. Its powerful motor, durable cutter head, and relatively effective dust collection combine to make it a cost-effective solution for home woodworkers. While minor adjustments might be needed and snipe can occur with improper technique, the overall value and positive user experience make this planer a great investment for enhancing your woodworking capabilities. To learn more and purchase your own CRAFTSMAN CMEW320, click here.
Last update on 2025-10-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API