Jointer Lock Screw: Harbor Freight's Secret Weapon For Woodworkers

The Harbor Freight 6 Jointer is a popular tool for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals. It is a simple device used to create straight and square edges on wood projects. While it is not a top-of-the-line jointer, it can be found for around $100 on Craigslist and is considered a gem by some users. The jointer has received mixed reviews, with some praising its power and sturdy construction, while others complain about the challenging assembly and adjustment process. One common issue is the plastic blade guard and inadequate dust collection. Overall, the Harbor Freight 6 Jointer can be a good option for those seeking an affordable and basic jointer for small projects and cleaning up reclaimed boards.

Harbor Freight 6 Jointer reviews

The Harbor Freight 6" Jointer is a simple and affordable tool for flattening the face and squaring the edges of wood. While it may not be the best option for joining long pieces of wood, it is perfect for smaller projects and cleaning up reclaimed boards and rough wood.

Reviews for the Harbor Freight 6" Jointer are mixed. Some users have reported issues with the tool being top-heavy and difficult to adjust, while others have praised its performance and value for money. One user noted that the jointer has plenty of power and is stable and sturdy, but they had difficulty getting the fence square with the bed. Another user mentioned that the dust collection is not very effective and the blade guard is made of plastic.

However, many users have shared positive experiences with the Harbor Freight 6" Jointer. One person shared that they have had the jointer for a couple of years and are pleased with the results, especially for edge jointing. Another user mentioned that the jointer has lots of power and is well-made, but they had to grind down part of the base to slide it under their table saw wing.

Overall, the Harbor Freight 6" Jointer seems to be a good option for those looking for an affordable and simple tool for their woodworking projects. It may require some fine-tuning and adjustments, but it can be a great addition to your workshop, especially for the price.

Harbor Freight 6 Jointer fence adjustment

The Harbor Freight 6" Jointer is a simple tool that can be a great bargain for those looking to clean up reclaimed boards and rough wood for smaller projects. It has a 1 HP motor and draws 8 amps at 110VAC. The 3-inch cutter head contains three knives, and both the infeed and outfeed tables are hand-wheel adjustable. The overall length of the table is 42.5", and it comes with an integral stand and a dust chute.

• Use a good try square or engineer's square to set the fence to 90 degrees with the bed.
• The gauge that shows the tilt is not very accurate, so it's best to use a square to get an exact measurement.
• Tightening the bolt to set the fence may cause the fence to move, so be sure to check and adjust as needed.
• The magnetic welding angle tool can be useful for squaring the fence.
• If you need to fine-tune the tables, there are bolts on the sides of the tables that can be adjusted.
• To replace the blades, machine shops can make a new set based on your old ones.

Overall, the Harbor Freight 6" Jointer is a good value for the money, and with some tuning and adjustments, it can be a useful tool for your woodworking projects.

Harbor Freight 6 Jointer blade guard

The Harbor Freight 6" Jointer is a simple tool that can be purchased for a low price, often found on Craigslist in the $100 range. While it is a good entry-level jointer for cleaning up reclaimed boards and rough wood for smaller projects, it has some drawbacks. The blade guard is made of plastic, and the dust collection is not efficient. Additionally, the fence can be challenging to adjust, and the gauge for measuring the tilt is not very accurate. It is also worth noting that Harbor Freight discontinued this product, which may impact the availability of replacement blades.

When considering the Harbor Freight 6" Jointer, it is essential to assess your needs and expectations. If you require a jointer for small projects and are willing to make some adjustments, this tool can be a good option, especially at a low price. However, if you need a longer bed for glue-ups or more powerful motors for face planing, you may need to invest in a higher-end jointer.

Overall, the Harbor Freight 6" Jointer has received mixed reviews. Some users have been satisfied with its performance, while others have encountered challenges with adjustments and experienced issues with the fence and blade guard. It is recommended to check online reviews and compare different options before making a purchase decision.

Harbor Freight 6 Jointer vs Craftsman 6 Jointer

The Harbor Freight 6" jointer is a simple tool that can be found listed on Craigslist in the $100 range. It has received mixed reviews, with some users reporting issues with the fence being difficult to set up and the guard breaking easily. However, others have found it to be a great little jointer for the price, especially if you're just using it for edge jointing and cleaning up reclaimed boards and rough wood for smaller projects.

On the other hand, the Craftsman 6" jointer is an older model that can also be found on Craigslist in the $100-150 range. It has a cast iron body and is considered to be a well-made machine. However, it may not be suitable for squaring blanks larger than 4 feet.

Overall, both jointers are simple devices with limited features and are considered to be entry-level options for those looking for a cheap and functional jointer. The Craftsman may have a slight edge in terms of build quality, but the Harbor Freight option is still a good choice for those on a tight budget.

Harbor Freight 6 Jointer assembly

Harbor Freight 6" Jointer Assembly

Overview

The Harbor Freight 6" Jointer is a simple and sturdy machine that can be a great addition to your woodworking shop. It features a 1 HP motor, 3-inch cutter head with three knives, and hand-wheel adjustable infeed and outfeed tables. With a length of 42.5 inches and an integral stand with a dust chute, this jointer is a good option for those looking for an inexpensive tool.

Assembly Process:

• Unpack the Jointer: Remove the jointer from its packaging and lay out all the parts and hardware.
• Inspect the Parts: Ensure that all parts are present and in good condition. Identify each part by referring to the assembly instructions or manual.
• Assemble the Stand: The jointer comes with an integral stand. Follow the instructions to assemble the stand, ensuring all bolts and connectors are securely tightened.
• Mount the Jointer: Carefully lift the jointer and mount it onto the stand. Make sure it is securely attached and levelled.
• Adjust the Tables: The infeed and outfeed tables need to be adjusted to the correct height and parallelism. Use the hand wheels to adjust the tables, ensuring they are level with each other and parallel to the cutter head.
• Set the Fence: The fence is an important component that guides the wood through the jointer. Adjust the fence to 90 degrees with the bed of the jointer, using a try square for accuracy. Tighten the bolts securely.
• Install the Knives: The jointer comes with three knives in the cutter head. Install the knives following the instructions provided. Ensure they are securely fastened and properly aligned.
• Final Checks: Before powering on the jointer, perform final checks to ensure all parts are securely tightened and adjusted correctly. Refer to the manual for any specific maintenance or lubrication requirements.
• Test the Jointer: Once assembled and adjusted, test the jointer by running some scrap wood through it. Ensure the machine runs smoothly and the knives are cutting properly.
• Dust Collection: The jointer has a dust chute, but no dust collection port. Consider building or attaching a dust collection system to minimise mess and maintain a clean working environment.

Tips and Considerations:

• When adjusting the fence, be aware that tightening the bolts can cause the fence to move. Use a try square to ensure the fence remains at 90 degrees during tightening.
• Magnetic jigs can be helpful when setting the knives to ensure proper alignment.
• Regularly check and sharpen the knives to maintain optimal performance.
• Always prioritise safety when working with power tools. Ensure you understand how to operate the jointer safely before use.

Frequently asked questions