Finally bit the bullet and bought a new Grizzly 490 8" jointer. I tried my best over the last 6 months to find a used machine, but at the prices people wanted for used it just made more sense to buy new. The additional $100 to $200 for a warranty and peace of mind is worth it to me.
Would greatly appreciate any tips offerred as to set up, as I'm new to working with jointers. One specific question I would like fellow Creekers to chime in on is the selection of a straight edge. I would like to set the machine up as accurately as possible and know I will need a good straight edge. I'm thinking of getting a Veritas 38" aluminum straight edge from Lee Valley. At $36.50 it seems like a good buy. Its accuracy is rated at +- .003, which seems pretty accurate to me. (But what do I know?) Is 38" long enough or do I need the 50" model which costs another $30?
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