Woodworking enthusiasts and professionals alike rely on tools like the DeWalt DW735 to achieve a smooth and precise finish on their lumber. However, one of the common challenges users face with this powerful planer is the issue of “snipe.” Understanding how to deal with snipe not only improves your woodworking projects but also enhances the longevity of your tool. In this article, we will delve deep into what snipe is, why it occurs, and how to effectively manage it when using the DeWalt DW735.
What is Snipe?
Snipe refers to the undesired dips or grooves that can appear at the ends of a board after planing. This phenomenon primarily occurs when the board is fed into the planer. The inconsistency in thickness can lead to imperfections, affecting the overall quality of your woodworking project. Let’s break down the components contributing to snipe and how they can manifest during operation.
Understanding the Cause of Snipe
Snipe is typically a result of several factors, which include:
1. Inadequate Support
When a board enters or exits a planer, it needs proper support. If the ends of the board are not adequately supported, they can dip, causing an uneven surface.
2. Feed Rollers Imbalance
The feed rollers play a crucial role in transporting the wood through the planer. If there is an imbalance in how the rollers engage the wood, it can lead to variations in thickness along the length of the board.
3. Blade Condition
Dull or damaged blades can exacerbate the snipe issue. Uneven cutting from the blades can create imperfections that translate into visible dips at the ends of your workpiece.
Identifying Snipe on the DW735
To effectively deal with snipe on your DeWalt DW735, it’s important first to know if you are experiencing it. Here’s how you can identify snipe:
Visual Indicators
Look for slight grooves or depressions on the ends of the board after passing it through the planer. These marks are often easily spotted.
Thickness Measurement
Use a caliper or measuring tape to determine the thickness of the board. If you find that the ends are thinner than the center, then you’re experiencing snipe.
Preventing Snipe on the DeWalt DW735
Now that you understand what snipe is and how to identify it, let’s explore various methods for preventing it.
1. Utilize Infeed and Outfeed Supports
Ensure that you have adequate infeed and outfeed supports for the board. This can be achieved through:
- Using roller stands or additional saw horses to support the wood when it enters and exits the planer.
- Aligning the piece so that it’s level from the infeed to the outfeed side.
2. Adjust the Planer’s Settings
The DeWalt DW735 is equipped with features that can help mitigate snipe:
• Snipe Reducer Mechanism
Ensure you are using the snipe-reducing features of the DW735. This is often accomplished through the use of the planer’s automatic feed system, which allows for smoother transitions.
• Adjustment of the Table Height
Ensure your infeed and outfeed tables are at the correct height to prevent dips during the feeding process.
3. Take Multiple Passes
Instead of trying to remove a significant amount of material in one pass, take multiple shallow passes. This not only reduces the likelihood of snipe but also minimizes strain on the blades and the machine itself.
Correcting Active Snipe on Wood
If you’ve already encountered snipe on your boards, don’t worry. Here are some effective ways to correct it:
1. Plane it Again
Simply running the piece through the planer again can help correct minor snipe marks. However, ensure you have proper support during this process.
2. Use a Jointer to Square the Ends
If the snipe is significant, consider using a jointer to square the ends of your workpiece. This method effectively removes the dips, leaving you with a smooth edge ready for further processing.
Improving Cutting Blade Condition
As previously mentioned, blade condition is key in preventing snipe. Here’s how to maintain and improve the cutting quality of your DW735:
1. Regular Blade Maintenance
Check your blades regularly for wear and make sure they are sharp. Dull blades don’t cut cleanly, which can amplify the effects of snipe.
2. Replace Blades When Necessary
If your blades are chipped or heavily worn, consider replacing them. Fresh, sharp blades will make a huge difference in the quality of your cuts.
3. Use the Right Type of Blade
Choosing the right type of blade suitable for your wood type can help achieve better results. Specialized blades that are designed for hardwoods or softwoods can minimize snipe occurrence.
Post-Planing Techniques
Once you have tackled snipe and are satisfied with the thickness of your lumber, it’s important to implement some post-planing techniques to ensure a flawless finish.
1. Sanding
After planing, consider sanding the boards. This will help smooth out any minor discrepancies left by the planer. Using a fine grit sandpaper allows you to achieve a polished finish that looks professional.
2. Final Measurements
Always measure the thickness of the board again after sanding to confirm that it meets your project’s specifications. This extra step ensures quality control and helps identify any remaining imperfections.
Best Practices for Using the DeWalt DW735 Planer
Adhering to these best practices can make a significant difference in your planing experience and help further prevent snipe.
- Keep the planer clean: Regularly clean debris and sawdust from the machine to maintain optimal functionality.
- Stay organized: Have your workspace set up in a way that allows easy access and support for the wood being planed.
Conclusion
Dealing with snipe on the DeWalt DW735 is a challenge that every woodworker may face, but with some knowledge and attention to detail, it’s a resolvable issue. By implementing proper board support, adjusting your planer settings, and maintaining your blades, you can drastically reduce the chances of experiencing snipe.
Incorporate these strategies into your woodworking routine, and you will not only enhance the quality of your projects but also enjoy using your planer to its full potential. So, next time you’re faced with the dreaded snipe, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle it head-on—and achieve those perfectly smooth boards that make your craftsmanship shine.
What is snipe, and why does it occur when using the DeWalt DW735 planer?
Snipe refers to the uneven trimming that can occur at the beginning or end of a workpiece when it’s passed through a planer. This usually presents as deeper cuts that can ruin the aesthetic and structural integrity of a project. Essentially, when the workpiece is supported by the infeed and outfeed rollers, any slight movement can lead to a drop in the wood, resulting in this unwanted defect.
In the case of the DeWalt DW735, snipe may occur due to several factors, such as improper setup, alignment issues, or insufficient support for the timber being planed. Understanding these issues can help you take the necessary precautions to mitigate snipe effectively.
How can I minimize snipe while using the DeWalt DW735?
To minimize snipe when operating your DW735, ensuring that your workpiece is adequately supported is crucial. Both the infeed and outfeed sides should have sufficient support, level with the planer. You might consider using roller stands or a planer sled if necessary, especially for longer workpieces, to maintain even pressure throughout the planing process.
Another method to prevent snipe is to set your planer for a deeper cut at the beginning and end of the board, while keeping the middle section at a shallower cut. This cuts down on the potential for snipe by allowing the workpiece to pass through more steadily, creating a smoother and more consistent finish across the entire length of the wood.
Can I calibrate my DeWalt DW735 to reduce snipe?
Yes, you can calibrate your DeWalt DW735 to help reduce snipe. One of the first steps is to check the alignment of the infeed and outfeed tables to ensure they are perfectly level with the cutter head. Any discrepancies in this alignment can exacerbate snipe, so using a level to check and adjust as necessary is advisable.
Additionally, you can regularly check the height settings of your planer to ensure they’re correctly tensioned and maintained. Proper calibration not only helps decrease snipe but also boosts the overall performance and longevity of your planer, ensuring that each cut is precise and clean.
What types of materials are most prone to snipe?
Certain types of materials are more susceptible to snipe than others, especially softer woods like pine, which can easily flex during the planing process. These softer woods can compress unevenly under the pressure of the blades, making them more likely to exhibit snipe at the infeed or outfeed ends.
Hardwoods, while generally more stable, can also be prone to snipe if they have internal stresses or irregularities. It’s crucial to consider the specific properties of the wood being worked on and implement preventive strategies accordingly to ensure smooth, snipe-free results.
Does the thickness of the material affect the likelihood of snipe?
Yes, the thickness of the material can significantly influence the likelihood of experiencing snipe. Thicker boards are generally heavier and more rigid, which can reduce the chances of dropping during the planing process. However, if they are too thick for the standard settings of the DW735, you may encounter challenges in achieving a consistent finish.
On the other hand, thinner materials are more flexible and maneuverable, which can lead to easier snipe occurrence. When planing thinner boards, it’s especially important to provide adequate support and to be mindful of the operation’s adjustments to keep snipe at bay.
Is it possible to fix snipe after it occurs?
While prevention is the best strategy, fixing snipe after it occurs is possible but can be challenging. For minor cases, sanding the affected areas may suffice, allowing you to blend the surface and make it less noticeable. Selecting the right sandpaper grit can ensure a smooth transition between the affected and unaffected areas.
In more severe cases, the snipe might require additional repairs, such as filling in the low spots or even replaning the entirety of the piece to achieve a consistent thickness throughout. However, this approach can sometimes compromise the overall dimensions of your piece, so careful assessment is necessary prior to undertaking that route.
What accessories can help reduce snipe when using the DW735?
Accessories such as infeed and outfeed rollers can significantly help in reducing snipe. These provide additional support to the workpiece during planing, ensuring it remains stable and does not experience excessive movement. Roller stands can be particularly beneficial for longer boards, giving them the support needed to avoid flexing and bending.
Another useful accessory is a planer sled. This can support the entire length of your workpiece and helps distribute weight more evenly, further reducing the potential for snipe. By utilizing these accessories, you can create a more stable and controlled planing environment, leading to better results.
What maintenance practices can help in reducing snipe?
Regular maintenance of the DeWalt DW735 is essential in minimizing the occurrence of snipe. Start by keeping the cutting blades sharp and free from debris, as dull blades can result in poor cutting quality and increased splintering. Regularly check for and replace worn-out parts, as they can impact the tool’s overall performance and capability.
Additionally, frequently inspecting and recalibrating your planer’s settings ensures continued accuracy in planing operations. A well-maintained machine operates more smoothly, providing a better cutting environment which can directly correlate to reducing snipe during the planing process.