Sharpening planer and jointer blades

[Haynie]

Not hand planes and jointers, the electronic really loud kinds.

For those who have done this is it a simple process or are we talking not simple.

 

[Dick Mahany]

I use a Tormek wet grinder with the plane blade sharpening jig. It's a little on the pricey side, but I haven't had to have them professionally sharpened in years. The process is quite simple, but without a jig of some kind, it would be a much more difficult task. I sharpen my 12" J/P combo blades as well as 6" jointer blades easily.

I think one could also get reasonable results using the scary-sharp sandpaper on granite or glass method with a jig. In my area, commercial sharpening runs $1/inch which is also reasonable.

 

[GaryMGg]

Some planers use throw away blades. If yours does, buy new ones.
Most jointers can be honed in place; if they require sharpening, it can be done at home.
IIRC, someone on Lumberjocks posted a jig they built to sharpen their jointer and planer blades without flaw.

One jig:
Sharpening

 

[Boz]

The big problem is getting the blades back correctly so you get an even level cut. My joiner came with a special jig to do it. I found a sharpening stone that came in a wood handle that is set at the correct angle. A couple of swipes on each blade every day keeps them is good shape.

 

[John Pratt]

When ever possible try to touch them up on the jointer/planer. Putting them back in after taking them out is a real PITA. My 8" jointer blades arent quite as difficult with the guides, but the planer was extremely difficult. You know it is tough to get them just right when there is a whole side business that sells jigs to get them in just right. I finally broke down and just got a spiral cutter head planer. Changing the blades in it is as easy as changing the carbide cutters on your Easy Wood Turning tools

 

[Wood Butcher]

I have 2 sets and send the dull one out to be professionally sharpened, doesn't cost that much and it's right.
WB

 

[Jim Burr]

I've been using the Grizzly copy of the Tormek. It uses Tormek jigs and hasn't let me down in 3 years! Does great on my Delta 12.5" planer blades and my lathe tools too!