5 Top Rated Planers for Surfboard Shaping in 2024

Choosing the right planer can make or break your shaping experience!

With so many options available, finding the right tool can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the 5 top-rated planers for surfboard shaping. Understanding the features and benefits of these planers will help you make an informed decision. Stick with us till the end find out which surfboard planes stand out in 2024.

5 Top Rated SurfBoard Planers

1. Hitachi P20ST

The Hitachi P20ST 5.5-Amp 3-1/4-Inch Portable Handheld Planer is popular among surfboard shapers. Its high performance and easy modification capabilities make it a top choice. This electric hand planer has a maximum cutting depth of 1.5mm and a rabbeting depth of 9mm. With a power input of 580W, it delivers a no-load speed of 17,000/min.

The planer is compact and lightweight, weighing only 2.5kg, which makes it easy to use and function. You can conveniently adjust the cutting depth using a knob. For efficient dust collection, attach an optional dust bag or elbow.

By using the Hitachi P20ST 5.5-Amp 3-1/4-Inch Portable Handheld Planer, surfboard shapers can achieve precise cuts. This tool helps shape boards to perfection with ease. Its modification capabilities make it versatile for various needs. You can tailor it to fit specific preferences effortlessly.

Features

Max Cutting Depth: 1.5mm (1/16″)

Rabbeting depth: 9mm (11/32″)
Power input 580W
No load speed 17,000/min

Compact and lightweight 2.5kg
Easy to adjust cutting depth by knob
Optional dust bag or elbow can be connected

2. Bosch 1594K

The Bosch 1594K is a highly sought-after electric hand planer in surfboard shaping. It’s designed for easy and precise foam planing. This planer includes a 3-1/4-inch kit featuring a 2-blade system, chip ejection switch, and ratcheting depth knob. With a powerful 6-1/2 amp motor, it delivers 16,500 rpm, making it easy to use.

One standout feature is its easy-to-adjust bevel fence, allowing for precise bevel cuts. The spring-loaded park rest stand keeps the planer elevated and protected when not in use. Additionally, it comes with durable micro-grain carbide blades, perfect for handling tough foam materials.

Other features of the Bosch 1594K include a 10-foot cord length, 11-1/8-inch shoe length, and a weight of just 6 pounds. The planer also comes with a 1-year warranty, providing peace of mind for users. Overall, the Bosch 1594K is an excellent option for surfboard shapers who demand precision and performance from their tools.

Features

3-1/4-inch planer kit with 2-blade system, chip ejection switch, and ratcheting depth knob
6-1/2 amp motor delivers 16,500 rpm
Easy-to-adjust bevel fence

Spring-loaded park rest stand
Cord Length: 10′
Durable micro-grain carbide blades

Includes planer, bevel guide fence, blade wrench, chip bag, and case
11-1/8-inch shoe length; 6 pounds; 1-year warranty

3. Makita KP0800K

The Makita KP0800K electric hand planer is a versatile tool for surfboard shaping and woodworking. It features a powerful 6.5 AMP motor that increases stock removal and delivers superior finishes. You can plane up to 3-1/4″ wide and 3/32″ deep in a single pass. This is thanks to its two-blade cutter head with 17,000 RPM, which ensures a smooth finish and fast stock removal.

The planer includes a spring-loaded stand that elevates the base to protect the blades and workpiece. It also has an easy blade setting system for quick blade installation. The precision-machined aluminum base ensures planing accuracy. Additionally, its double edge carbide blades provide enhanced performance.

The Makita KP0800K is built with a rigid die-cast aluminum housing. It features all-ball bearing construction for longer tool life. Despite its power, it weighs only 5.7 lbs., offering a high power-to-weight ratio. The machined aluminum and balanced planer drum help reduce vibration and increase durability.

A lock-on button allows for continuous operation without holding the trigger. The click depth adjustment knob has an easy-to-read scale. You can set depths from 0″ to 3/32″ in 0.1mm increments, enabling precise depth adjustments.

Features

6.5 AMP motor boosts power for stock removal and finishes.
Planes up to 3-1/4″ wide and 3/32″ deep in one pass.
Two-blade cutter head at 17,000 RPM ensures smooth finishes and fast removal.

Spring-loaded stand protects blades and workpiece.
Easy blade setting allows quick installation.
Precision aluminum base ensures accuracy.

Double edge carbide blades enhance performance.
Die-cast aluminum housing with all-ball bearing construction extends life.
High power-to-weight ratio at only 5.7 lbs.

Balanced planer drum reduces vibration and increases durability.
Lock-on button allows continuous operation.
Click depth adjustment knob for settings from 0″ to 3/32″ in 0.1mm increments.

Rubberized handles provide comfort.
Durable high-quality poly-v belt.
Optional large high-speed steel blades available.

Double insulated

4. Surfboard Shaping Power Planer

The Surfboard Shaping Power Planer features a powerful 6 Amp motor. It cuts through foam with ease, up to 1/8″ deep per pass. This tool excels at removing the tough skin of polyurethane blanks. It’s also perfect for foiling your board and shaping rail bands.

One of the best aspects of this planer is the consistent quality of cuts across different types. There’s no need to spend more on a higher-end model when this affordable option delivers the same results. By saving money with this planer, you can invest in another blank to shape.

Features

6 Amp motor provides up to 34,000 cuts per minute
16 positive stops adjust the cutting depth anywhere from 0 to 1/8 inches
Lightweight design weighs in at a mere 6 pounds

Includes power planer, dust bag, a parallel fence bracket

If you’re in the market for a power planer for surfboard shaping, don’t overlook this affordable option. With its powerful motor and precision cutting abilities, it’s a great choice for beginners and experienced shapers alike.

Fun fact: Did you know that the first surfboard planers were actually modified wood planers? Today’s power planers are much more efficient and effective, making surfboard shaping more accessible than ever before.

5. Makita Planer Modification Kit

The Makita Planer Modification Kit is a fantastic addition for anyone looking to modify a Makita planer for surfboard shaping. This kit includes several modifications that offer greater control and precision.

First, the depth control is redesigned for zero to 1/8″ maximum depth in one quarter turn of the knob. This is achieved using a Delrin plastic cam, a hard and self-lubricating bearing material. An aluminum knob, similar to the Skil 100 planer, is also used.

Second, the rear handle is replaced with a Skilsaw HD handle, angled like the Skil 100 planer. Laser-cut and machine-formed sheet metal brackets ensure a perfect fit.

These modifications transform the Makita planer into a precise and efficient tool for shaping surfboards. They allow for greater control and accuracy when creating the perfect shape for your board.

Modification	Description
Depth control	Redesigned cam made of Delrin plastic
Allows for zero to 1/8″ max depth in 1/4 turn of knob (90°)
Aluminum knob similar to Skil 100 planer
Related parts CNC machined billet aluminum
Rear handle	Skilsaw HD handle
Same angle as Skil 100 planer
Sheet metal brackets laser cut and machine formed

Key Factors When Buying A Surfboard Shaping Planer

Before buying a surfboard shaping planer, there are several factors to think about. First, assess your needs and skill level. It’s also important to consider your budget.

Below are key factors to consider before making a purchase.

Blade Size: The blade size of the planer is crucial as it determines the amount of material that can be removed in one pass. A larger blade will take off more material and will be more efficient, but may be difficult to control for beginners.
Motor Power: A powerful motor is essential for shaping a surfboard efficiently. However, a high-powered motor can also be more expensive and may not be necessary for all users.

Weight: The weight of the planer is important to consider, especially if you plan on using it for extended periods. A lightweight planer will be easier to control and maneuver, but may not be as durable as a heavier model.
Durability: A surfboard shaping planer is an investment, and you want to make sure it will last for years to come. Look for a planer made from high-quality materials that can withstand heavy use.
Brand Reputation: Research the reputation of the brand you are considering to ensure that they produce high-quality products. Look for reviews from other surfboard shapers to get an idea of the most reputable brands.

Accessories: Consider any accessories that come with the planer, such as replacement blades or dust bags. These can add value to your purchase and save you money in the long run.

Essential Tools for Surfboard Shaping

A planer is essential for shaping surfboards. However, other tools are just as important for achieving the perfect design. Here are some additional tools you’ll need for surfboard shaping.

Shaping Rasp – A shaping rasp is a tool that is used to shape and refine the foam on the surfboard.
Sandpaper – Sandpaper is used to smooth out any rough edges on the surfboard.
Surform tool – A surform tool is a cutting tool that is used to shape and remove foam from the surfboard.

Power sander – A power sander is a tool that is used to sand and shape the surfboard.
Hot-wire foam cutter – A hot-wire foam cutter is used to cut and shape foam on the surfboard.
Finishing resin – Finishing resin is used to seal and protect the surfboard.

Fiberglass cloth – Fiberglass cloth is used to reinforce the surfboard and make it more durable.

Pros and Cons of Modifying a Planer for Surfboard Shaping

Modifying a planer for surfboard shaping has its own set of pros and cons. On one hand, it can enhance the precision and efficiency of the shaping process. On the other hand, it can be time-consuming and expensive. Here are some points to consider:

Pros

Improved precision: Modifying a planer can allow for more precise cuts and shaping, resulting in a more accurate final product.
Greater efficiency: With a modified planer, the shaping process can be faster and more streamlined, saving time and effort.
Customizability: Modifying a planer allows surfboard shapers to create a tool that is tailored to their specific needs and preferences.

Cons

Cost: Modifying a planer can be expensive, especially if high-quality materials and professional installation are required.
Time-consuming: Modifying a planer can be a time-consuming process, which may not be practical for those with limited time or resources.
Risk of damage: If the modification is not done correctly, there is a risk of damaging the planer or creating a tool that is unsafe to use.

Despite the potential drawbacks, many surfboard shapers find that modifying a planer is worth the investment. By creating a tool that is tailored to their needs, they can achieve greater precision and efficiency in their shaping process. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision.

Fun fact: The first surfboard planer was invented in the 1950s by a man named Dale Velzy.

Read here to explore and choose from the 5 best hand planers for beginners.