I know some people like to write novels on the creek, and there is nothing wrong with that, but I will try and keep it brief.
I am looking to purchase a jointer to add to my arsenal of woodworking tools. I have a DW734 12.5" planer if that makes any difference other than limiting me to a 12" jointer.
Because someone will say Grizzly and if I did buy one, it would be the G0654.
G0654 6" x 46" Jointer for $534 with shipping
http://www.grizzly.com/products/6-x-46-Jointer/G0654
It is their cheapest jointer not counting their benchtop model. It is delivered to my door. It has a warranty.
On the used market I can get a Jet open stand 6" jointer for $175. If I disassemble the stand, I think I could fit it in my sedan. If not the Jet, I've seen other open stand jointers in the $200-$300 range. The Jet or comparable open stand jointer is cheaper than the Grizzly.
With either of those jointers, I would eventually upgrade to a better jointer.
On the used market there is also a General 8" jointer for $1,200. It is made in Canada and would probably be the last jointer I would ever buy. Then again I'm only 23, so don't know if I'll ever want to replace it with a larger Euro machine. I would have to rent a truck to move it adding an extra $110, making the total $1,310 plus a tip for friends to help move it.
The used Jointers are within a 15 miles from my house, so distance is not a factor.
So in short:
Are the open stand jointers any good? Is the G0654 good for it's price? I think the General is fairly priced at $1,200, is it a fair price?
Thanks in advance for your advice.