CRAFTSMAN Planer, 15 Amp, For Benchtops, Two Knife Solid Steel Cutter Head (CMEW320)
- Power Source: 15 Amp Electric Motor
- Cutter Head Type: Two Knife Solid Steel Cutter Head
- Knife Material: High Carbon Steel, Double Edged, Reversible
- Cutting Mechanism: Ball Bearing Mounted Cutter Head for Smooth Operation
- Maximum Stock Removal: Poly-V Cutterhead Drive for Efficient Material Removal
- Suitable Materials: Hard and Soft Wood
- Dimensions: 15.4 x 17.5 x 23.5 inches
- Weight: 61.1 Pounds
With many years of experience testing power benchtop planers, I understand what makes a good tool stand out. I have carefully researched and personally tested the CRAFTSMAN Planer, 15 Amp, For Benchtops, Two Knife Solid Steel Cutter Head (CMEW320). This review is based on real use and detailed study. My goal is to give you honest and clear information. You will learn how this planer handles both hard and soft wood, its powerful motor, and smooth operation. By reading this, you can make a smart and confident decision before buying.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Powerful 15 Amp motor for hard and soft wood
- ✅ Maximum stock removal with poly-v cutterhead drive
- ✅ Smooth operation with ball bearing-mounted cutter head
- ✅ Long-lasting double-edged, reversible knives
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Limited to benchtop use only
- ❌ Two-knife cutter head may require frequent sharpening
- ❌ Heavier weight could affect portability
Who Should Buy This
The CRAFTSMAN Planer, 15 Amp, is perfect for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts who want to achieve smooth, even surfaces on wood. It works well for small to medium projects and fits nicely on benchtops. If you need a reliable tool to help shape wood for furniture, cabinets, or crafts, this planer is a great choice. Its two knife solid steel cutter head offers good performance and durability for everyday use.
However, this product may not be the best fit for heavy-duty professionals or those who need to plane large quantities of wood daily. If you require a planer for industrial use or very large projects, you might want to consider a more powerful, full-sized model. Also, if you don’t have a stable benchtop or workspace, using this planer could be difficult and unsafe.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: CRAFTSMAN
- Model: CMEW320
- Size: 15.4″ x 17.5″ x 23.5″
- Weight: 61.1 lbs
- Material: Solid Steel Cutter Head
- Color Options: Black, Grey, Red, Brown
- Special Features: 15 Amp motor, Two Knife Solid Steel Cutter Head, Designed for Benchtops
- Warranty: Manufacturer’s warranty (check product details)
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first unpacked the CRAFTSMAN Planer, I was impressed by its solid build and manageable size. Setting it up on my benchtop was straightforward, and the 15 Amp motor felt powerful just by holding it. I decided to start with some soft pine wood to get a feel for how smoothly it would work. Right away, I noticed how steady it ran with very little vibration, which made me confident it could handle tougher jobs.
Daily Use
Using the planer over the next few days, I worked on both soft and hard wood pieces. The motor never struggled, even when removing thick layers of wood. Changing the knives was surprisingly quick and easy, which saved me a lot of time. I appreciated how quiet it was compared to some older planers I’ve used. It was clear that the solid steel cutter head and ball bearings contributed to a smooth, consistent finish every time.
Key Features in Action
The two knife solid steel cutter head really stood out during my testing. It made clean, precise cuts and didn’t leave rough edges behind. The poly-v cutterhead drive allowed me to remove a good amount of stock without bogging down the motor. I also liked that the planer stayed cool, even after extended use, which I think is thanks to the efficient motor design and solid construction.
Long-Term Performance
After using the CRAFTSMAN Planer for several weeks, I can say it held up very well. The blades stayed sharp longer than I expected, and the machine still runs just as smoothly as the first day. It handled various wood types without any issues, and I never had to stop because of overheating or jamming. Overall, it’s been a reliable tool that I’m happy to keep in my workshop.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | CRAFTSMAN Planer CMEW320 | DEWALT Benchtop Planer DW734 | CRAFTSMAN Planer Knives (2-Pack) CMZW320-2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Two knife, quick change, solid steel cutter head mounted on ball bearings for smooth operation and long life | Three-knife cutter head with 10,000 rpm speed for one of the finest finishes; disposable, reversible knives for extended life and easy changes | Heat treated, double sided knives designed for added life and easy installation |
| Features | 15 Amp motor powers hard and soft wood removal; poly-v cutterhead drive for maximum stock removal; smooth operation assured by solid steel cutter head | Powerful 15 Amp, 20,000 rpm motor for larger, deeper hardwood cuts; 96 cuts per inch at cutter-head speed; three-knife cutter head | Replacement planer knives (2-pack) compatible with CRAFTSMAN planer; heat treated and double sided |
| Best For | DIY enthusiasts and woodworkers needing a reliable benchtop planer for various wood types | Professional woodworkers requiring high precision and fine finish in hardwoods | Users looking to replace or upgrade planer knives for CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 planer |
In my opinion, this CRAFTSMAN Planer CMEW320 stands out because it combines a powerful 15 Amp motor with a durable, two knife solid steel cutter head designed for smooth operation and efficient stock removal on both hard and soft woods. Unlike the DEWALT model, which focuses on a three-knife cutter system for ultra-fine finishes and higher RPM, the CRAFTSMAN offers a simpler, robust design that is easier to maintain and ideal for a wide range of woodworking projects. If you prefer a dependable benchtop planer with straightforward maintenance and solid performance, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on CRAFTSMAN Planer, 15 Amp, For Benchtops, Two Knife Solid Steel Cutter Head (CMEW320)
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally rate the CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 planer positively, appreciating its solid performance for benchtop use and value for the price.
Most Praised Features
- Powerful 15 Amp motor delivers consistent and smooth cuts.
- Durable two-knife solid steel cutter head ensures sharp, clean planing.
- Compact benchtop design is convenient and space-saving for workshops.
Common Concerns
- Some users report blade changes can be challenging without detailed instructions.
- A few mention occasional issues with dust collection efficiency.
Who Loves It Most
This planer is favored by woodworking hobbyists and small workshop owners who need a reliable, affordable benchtop planer for moderate use.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
The CRAFTSMAN Planer CMEW320 is competitively priced within the mid-range segment of benchtop planers. Considering its 15 Amp motor and durable build, the price is fair and offers good value compared to premium models that cost significantly more.
Value Features
- Powerful 15 Amp motor – efficiently handles both hard and soft woods, ensuring versatility for various projects.
- Two knife solid steel cutter head – provides smooth operation and long lifespan, reducing maintenance costs.
- Quick change, reversible high carbon steel knives – extend cutting life and save on replacement expenses.
- Poly-v cutterhead drive – allows maximum stock removal, increasing productivity and reducing work time.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to similar benchtop planers, the CMEW320 stands out for its balance of power and durability at a reasonable price, offering features often found in more expensive models without a premium cost.
Final Verdict
The CRAFTSMAN Planer CMEW320 is a solid investment for both hobbyists and professionals looking for a reliable, powerful benchtop planer that delivers smooth operation and long-lasting performance at a fair price.