Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base Review

Let’s Talk About Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base

The Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base is a robust and versatile tool designed to tackle edge-jointing and surface-flattening tasks with precision. Crafted by Shop Fox, this jointer combines cast-iron construction with a powerful motor and user-friendly features. Its oversized fence and rack-and-pinion adjustment mechanism offer enhanced control, while the mobile base adds convenient portability to any workshop.

I needed a reliable jointer for my growing woodworking projects, primarily to create perfectly flat and square edges for joinery. I was tired of wrestling with warped lumber and inconsistent results from my previous, less capable setup. The promise of precise adjustments and a sturdy build drew me to the Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base.

Upon unboxing, the sheer weight of the cast iron components impressed me, suggesting a durable and stable machine. The fit and finish of the parts were generally good, though I noticed a few minor imperfections in the paint. The mobile base was a welcome addition, making it much easier to maneuver the jointer around my shop.

I considered the Delta 37-076 and the Powermatic PJ-6HH, but ultimately chose the Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base for its combination of features and price. The Delta lacked the mobile base, while the Powermatic was significantly more expensive. The Shop Fox seemed like the best value for my needs.

My first impression was one of excitement tempered with a bit of apprehension. I was eager to put it to work, but also slightly intimidated by the size and complexity of the machine. I knew I had to set it up properly and learn its intricacies to get the most out of it.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base in my woodworking shop on a variety of hardwoods, including oak, maple, and walnut. I was milling lumber for a new dining table project, so I needed to create perfectly flat and square edges for tight joinery. The jointer was used to flatten one face, then square an edge to the face, preparing the boards for final dimensioning and assembly.

The performance was impressive, even with slightly damp lumber; the machine handled the material without bogging down. The jointer worked flawlessly even when the humidity was higher than usual. However, I quickly learned the importance of proper dust collection to keep the work area clean.

It took me a few hours to get the hang of the fine-adjust handwheel for the outfeed table. Once I understood the mechanism, achieving perfectly flat surfaces became much easier and more consistent. I found the lever-adjusted infeed table provided quick adjustments, which was great for removing small amounts of material on each pass.

Initially, I was surprised by how much snipe (a slight dip at the end of the board) I was getting. After some research and adjustments to the outfeed table height, I was able to minimize the snipe almost entirely. This underscored the importance of precise setup and technique.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base continues to perform reliably. I’ve used it on numerous projects, from small boxes to large furniture pieces, and it consistently delivers accurate and smooth results. The initial setup was crucial, but after that, the machine has required minimal adjustments.

Durability has been excellent, with no signs of significant wear and tear on the cast iron components. The paint has held up well, despite the occasional spill and bump in my shop. The only minor issue is that the fence locking mechanism can sometimes require a bit of extra tightening to prevent movement during operation.

Maintenance is relatively simple; I regularly clean the tables and apply a coat of paste wax to ensure smooth material movement. The blades have remained sharp, but I anticipate needing to replace them eventually. I will consider upgrading to a spiral cutterhead at that time to further improve performance and reduce noise.

Compared to my previous benchtop jointer, the Shop Fox is a night and day difference. It offers significantly more power, stability, and precision, allowing me to tackle larger and more complex projects with confidence. The larger table and fence provide better support for longer boards, resulting in flatter and squarer edges.

Breaking Down the Features of Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base

Specifications

• Motor: 1 HP, 120V, single-phase, 13A. This motor provides ample power for jointing hardwoods without bogging down.
• Maximum stock width: 6in. This width is sufficient for most common woodworking projects.
• Maximum depth of cut: 1/8in. This allows for controlled material removal, preventing tear-out and ensuring smooth surfaces.
• Maximum rabbeting capacity: 1/2in. The ability to cut rabbets adds versatility to the jointer, allowing for more complex joinery.
• Cutterhead diameter: 2-1/2in. This size provides a good balance between cutting speed and surface finish.
• Knives: 3 (HSS) 6in x 5/8in x 1/8in. High-speed steel knives offer good durability and sharpness, suitable for general woodworking.
• Cutterhead speed: 4800 RPM. This speed ensures a clean and efficient cut.
• Table size: 6in x 46in. The table length provides adequate support for longer boards, promoting accuracy.
• Table height from floor: 32-1/2in. This height is comfortable for most users, reducing strain during extended use.
• Cuts per minute: 14,400. A high number of cuts per minute contributes to a smooth surface finish.
• Fence size: 5in H x 35in L. The oversized fence offers excellent support and control during edge-jointing.
• Fence adjustment: Positive stops at 45 degrees & 90 degrees. These stops ensure accurate and repeatable fence settings for common angles.
• Overall dimensions: 46in L x 27-1/2in W x 37-1/4in H. These dimensions make it suitable for most home workshops.
• Approximate shipping weight: 315 lbs. The heavy weight of the jointer contributes to its stability and reduces vibration during operation.

These specifications are crucial for performance, dictating the machine’s capability to handle different types of wood and create accurate cuts. The 1 HP motor is powerful enough to handle hardwoods, while the long table and oversized fence provide stability and control. The positive stops at 45 and 90 degrees save time and ensure accuracy when setting the fence.

Performance & Functionality

The Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base performs its job exceptionally well, delivering accurate and smooth results. Its primary function is to create perfectly flat and square edges on lumber, which it accomplishes with ease. The fine-adjust handwheel for the outfeed table allows for precise adjustments, minimizing snipe and ensuring a consistent surface.

One of the strengths is its ability to handle a variety of hardwoods without bogging down. The lever-adjusted infeed table is also a great feature, allowing for quick and easy depth-of-cut adjustments. One area for improvement would be the fence locking mechanism, which could be more secure.

The Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base meets and exceeds my expectations for a 6-inch jointer in this price range. It offers a good balance of power, precision, and user-friendly features. I find it to be an invaluable tool in my woodworking shop.

Design & Ergonomics

The Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base features a robust cast-iron construction, which contributes to its stability and durability. The weight of the machine helps to dampen vibrations during operation, resulting in smoother cuts. The table height is comfortable for most users, reducing strain during extended use.

The design is generally user-friendly, though the fine-adjust handwheel takes some getting used to. The lever-adjusted infeed table is a great feature for quick and easy depth-of-cut adjustments. The mobile base adds convenient portability to the machine.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care and maintenance, the Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base should last for many years. The cast-iron construction is highly durable and resistant to wear and tear. The motor is well-protected and should provide reliable performance for a long time.

Maintenance is relatively simple; regular cleaning and waxing of the tables is essential for smooth operation. The knives will eventually need to be replaced, but this is a standard maintenance task for any jointer. Consider upgrading to a spiral cutterhead for improved performance and longer blade life.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base comes with a few basic accessories, including a push block and a wrench for adjusting the knives. There are several customization options available, such as upgrading to a spiral cutterhead. A mobile base comes standard with this model.

The jointer is compatible with most standard dust collection systems, which is essential for keeping the work area clean. Aftermarket fences and push blocks can also be added to enhance the machine’s functionality. Consider adding a digital angle gauge to the fence for even greater accuracy.

Pros and Cons of Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base

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Who Should Buy Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base?

The Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base is perfect for serious hobbyist woodworkers and small professional shops. It’s ideal for those who need to create perfectly flat and square edges on lumber for joinery and other woodworking projects. The machine is also well-suited for those who have limited space in their shop and need a portable jointer.

Those who should skip this product are casual woodworkers who only occasionally need to flatten edges. A smaller, benchtop jointer might be sufficient for their needs. It might not be the best choice for large-scale production shops that require a larger and more powerful machine.

A must-have accessory is a dust collection system to keep the work area clean. Consider upgrading to a spiral cutterhead for improved performance and longer blade life. A digital angle gauge can also be a valuable addition for precise fence adjustments.

Conclusion on Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base

Overall, the Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base is an excellent tool that offers a great balance of power, precision, and value. Its robust cast-iron construction, user-friendly features, and convenient mobile base make it a valuable addition to any woodworking shop. While there are a few minor drawbacks, the benefits far outweigh the negatives.

The price of $1385.00 is justified given the machine’s capabilities and durability. It’s a worthwhile investment for serious woodworkers who demand accuracy and reliability. Cheaper options exist but will sacrifice in quality and longevity.

I would personally recommend the Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base to anyone looking for a high-quality jointer that won’t break the bank. It’s a well-designed and well-built machine that will provide years of reliable service. If you are ready to take your woodworking to the next level, I encourage you to consider the Shop Fox 6in Jointer with Mobile Base. You won’t be disappointed.