I was impressed with Bosch’s 18v cordless planer (model PLH181B) when testing this tool category for a Fine Homebuilding article last year (see FHB #321). At first glance, the new 3-1⁄4-in. model (GHO18V-26N) doesn’t look much different than its predecessor. But a closer examination reveals some notable differences.

I really appreciate the addition of onboard storage for a pair of replacement planer blades, which are easy to misplace when stored elsewhere. I’m still a fan of Bosch’s single-blade cutterhead—a feature that shaves time off blade changes while also eliminating the irregular cuts you get if there’s a misaligned blade in a two-blade planer.

The new planer has a repositioned lock-on/off button that makes the tool easier to turn on, and a slightly beefier aluminum base that adds some stability when taking deep cuts or shaving dense wood. Three differently sized V-grooves in the infeed base serve as guides when planning small, medium, and large chamfers. This is a handy feature for trim carpentry and cabinet­making jobs, where hard edges and sharp corners need softening.

Maximum cutting depth is increased slightly—to 3⁄32 in.—and the tool’s brushless motor easily handled every test I tried. A quick lever-flip changes chip ejection from one side to the other; the tool-only price ($230) includes a large dust bag and a sturdy adjustable fence that can be attached on either side of the planer. All in all, these design tweaks have managed to make a really good tool even better.

— Tim Snyder; carpenter, writer, and woodworker in Newtown, Conn. Photos courtesy of the manufacturer.

From Fine Homebuilding 328

RELATED STORIES

• Tool Test: Cordless Planers
• How to Change Standard Thickness-Planer Blades
• Controlling Planer Shavings on Site

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