On 11/27/2013 9:46 AM, John Grossbohlin wrote:
....

I find a jointer to be a critical tool in my shop (whether electron or
meat powered).
....

Agreed...it's the first in any stock preparation. Then again, I'm of
the age before there were the high-powered routers and all so my habits
are ingrained from 50+ yr of prior use.

As others have said, other ways are possible but to me it's indispensible.

Iff'en were starting a new shop I'd seriously consider the newer
multi-machines to get an equivalent-width surfacer to the capacity of
the planer. Probably best use of limited floor space for moderate to
large work. If limited to smaller work, the alternatives w/o would be
more attractive.

IF size weren't a restriction I'd go to old iron and an old 16" Crescent
or the like...

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