5 Best Planers for Surfboard Shaping

Looking for the best planers for surfboard shaping? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, choosing the right planer can make all the difference.

With so many options on the market, it can be tough to know where to start.

That’s why we’ve done the research for you.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 5 best planers for surfboard shaping.

From power to precision, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

So, let’s dive in and find the perfect planer for your needs.

Key Takeaways

Planers are essential tools for shaping surfboards.
The right planer can make a huge difference in the finished product.
Power and precision are key factors to consider when choosing a planer.

Electric planers are generally easier to use, but hand planers offer more control.
Blade quality is another important consideration.
By choosing one of our top 5 picks, you can be sure you’re getting a high-quality planer that will help you create the perfect surfboard.

Hitachi P20ST

The Hitachi P20ST 5.5-Amp 3-1/4-Inch Portable Handheld Planer is a sought-after option among surfboard shapers due to its high performance and easy modification capabilities. With a maximum cutting depth of 1.5mm and a rabbeting depth of 9mm, this electric hand planer is a powerful tool with a power input of 580W and a no-load speed of 17,000/min. Its compact and lightweight design, weighing only 2.5kg, makes it easy to use and maneuver. The cutting depth can be conveniently adjusted using a knob, and the optional dust bag or elbow can be attached for efficient dust collection.

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

By using the Hitachi P20ST 5.5-Amp 3-1/4-Inch Portable Handheld Planer, surfboard shapers can achieve precise cuts and shape their boards to perfection. Its easy modification capabilities also make it a versatile tool that can be tailored to fit specific needs and preferences.

Bosch 1594K

The Bosch 1594K is another highly sought-after electric hand planer in the world of surfboard shaping. This planer is specially designed to handle foam planing with ease and precision. It comes equipped with a 3-1/4-inch planer kit that features a 2-blade system, chip ejection switch, and ratcheting depth knob. The powerful 6-1/2 amp motor delivers a whopping 16,500 rpm, making it a breeze to use.

One of the standout features of the Bosch 1594K is its easy-to-adjust bevel fence, which allows for precise bevel cuts. The spring-loaded park rest stand is another handy feature that keeps the planer elevated and protected when not in use. The planer also comes with durable micrograin carbide blades that can handle even the toughest 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. Here are some key features of the Bosch 1594K at a glance:

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 micrograin carbide blades
Includes planer, bevel guide fence, blade wrench, chip bag, and case

11-1/8-inch shoe length; 6 pounds; 1-year warranty

If you’re looking for a reliable and high-performing electric hand planer for your surfboard shaping needs, the Bosch 1594K is definitely worth considering. With its powerful motor, precision features, and durable construction, it’s sure to make your surfboard shaping projects a breeze.

Makita KP0800K

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

The planer also comes with a spring-loaded stand that elevates the base to protect the blades and workpiece, and an easy blade setting system for fast blade installation. Its precision machined aluminum base ensures planing accuracy, while its double edge carbide blades provide added performance.

The planer is housed in a rigid die-cast aluminum housing with all-ball bearing construction for longer tool life. It has a high power-to-weight ratio, weighing only 5.7 lbs., and a machined aluminum and balanced planer drum for reduced vibration and added durability. The lock-on button allows for continuous operation, and the click depth adjustment knob with easy-to-read scale with settings from 0″ to 3/32″ (0.1mm increments) enables precise depth adjustment.

The planer is ergonomically centered balanced with rubberized front and rear handles for added comfort, and comes with a high quality poly-v belt that provides added durability. It can be equipped with large, high speed steel blades (optional accessory), and is double insulated.

Features:

6.5 AMP motor delivers more output power for increased stock removal and superior finishes
Planes up to 3-1/4″ wide and 3/32″ deep in a single pass

Two-blade cutter head with 17,000 RPM delivers smooth finish and fast stock removal
Spring-loaded stand elevates the base to protect the blades and workpiece
Easy blade setting system for fast blade installation

Precision machined aluminum base for planing accuracy
Equipped with double edge carbide blades for added performance
Rigid die-cast aluminum housing with all-ball bearing construction for longer tool life

High power-to-weight ratio; weighs only 5.7 lbs.
Machined aluminum and balanced planer drum for reduced vibration and added durability
Lock-on button for continuous operation

Click depth adjustment knob with easy-to-read scale with settings from 0″ to 3/32″ (0.1mm increments) for precise depth adjustment
Ergonomically centered balance with rubberized front and rear handles for added comfort
High quality poly-v belt provides added durability

Can be equipped with large, high speed steel blades (optional accessory)
Double insulated

By using the Makita KP0800K electric hand planer, you can save time and achieve precise and smooth finishes on your surfboard shaping and woodworking projects. Its powerful motor and easy-to-use features make it a great addition to any workshop.

Surfboard Shaping Power Planer

This Surfboard Shaping Power Planer boasts a powerful 6 Amp motor that can cut through foam like butter, up to 1/8″ deep per pass. Not only is it great for removing the tough skin of polyurethane blanks, but it’s also perfect for foiling your board and shaping rail bands.

One of the best things about this power planer is that there is no perceivable difference in the quality of cut between planer types. So why spend more money on a higher-end model when you can get the same results with this affordable option? Plus, by saving money with this planer, you can put those savings towards another blank to shape.

Here are some of the key features of the Surfboard Shaping Power Planer:

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.

By choosing the Surfboard Shaping Power Planer, you’ll be able to shape your boards faster and more accurately, without breaking the bank.

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.

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 allow for greater control and precision when shaping surfboards.

Firstly, the depth control has been redesigned to allow for zero to 1/8″ maximum depth in just one quarter turn of the knob. This is achieved using a Delrin plastic cam, which is a hard and self-lubricating bearing material, and an aluminum knob that is similar to the Skil 100 planer.

Secondly, the rear handle has been replaced with a Skilsaw HD handle that is angled the same as the Skil 100 planer. The sheet metal brackets have been laser cut and machine formed to ensure a perfect fit.

With these modifications, the Makita planer is transformed into a precise and efficient tool for shaping surfboards. It allows 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

If you’re serious about shaping surfboards, the Makita Planer Modification Kit is a must-have. It provides the precision and control necessary to create the perfect board. Always remember to follow proper safety procedures when working with power tools.

Factors To Consider Before Buying A Surfboard Shaping Planer

Before buying a surfboard shaping planer, there are several factors to consider. It is important to evaluate your needs, skill level, and budget before making a purchase.

So, to help you find the best surfboard shaping planer, we have compiled this buying guide. Below, you will find some essential factors that you need to consider before buying a surfboard shaping planer.

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.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can make an informed decision when purchasing a surfboard shaping planer. Remember, the right planer will make shaping your surfboard easier and more efficient, leading to a better end result.

What Other Tools Are Needed for Surfboard Shaping Besides a Planer

While a planer is an essential tool in surfboard shaping, there are other tools that are equally important in achieving the perfect shape and design. Here are some other tools that are needed 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.

Hotwire foam cutter – A hotwire 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.

These tools are essential for surfboard shaping, and they are used in conjunction with a planer to achieve the desired shape and design. It is important to have a variety of tools at your disposal when shaping a surfboard, as each tool serves a specific purpose in the shaping process.

Again, while a planer is an essential tool in surfboard shaping, it is not the only tool that is needed. By having a variety of tools at your disposal, you can create a surfboard that is not only functional but also visually appealing.

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.