Final decision yo be made…

My biggest concern is having to set the tables on the hammer eventually. Seems like it difficult vs the average dove tail or parallelogram jointer.

Not to mention i think the hammer would stay in planer set up 80-90% of the time

My shop is 22×40. I know space is always a concern. But, after having a combo machine for the last few years I definitely plan on getting two separate machines. The combo machines will always be a compromise of some sort. The higher end ones will certainly be better and have fewer compromises, but if you have the space and funds I would recommend separate machines.

I would go with the Grizzly machines, I've always thought of multipurpose machines to be more of a crutch than an advantage. Yes, it takes up more floor space, but there's value in keeping adjustments on a specific machine while using a different machine for a different process. I believe the two separate machines would also retain a greater value vs. their initial purchase price.

Starting a new thread, to discuss the exact same topic, just with narrowed down criteria is as waste of bytes. You will get same answers, from same people, with same combo .vs. separate debates. Best to use original thread, so everyone can follow the progression, and learn the final decision. Think of it as a story for the journey in setting your shop. Everyone want to know the ending to story, and not have to find your new thread.

Before I leave this thread:
There is huge difference in the corporate philosophy of Felder group selling the Hammer and Grizzly. It's like comparing an apple to a banana. Suggest you read up reviews on challenges of individuals buying from Felder group, as purchasing from a machine tool company does not have same terms and conditions as buying from a online tool seller.

Cheers!

Starting a new thread, to discuss the exact same topic, just with narrowed down criteria is as waste of bytes. You will get same answers, from same people, with same combo .vs. separate debates. Best to use original thread, so everyone can follow the progression, and learn the final decision. Think of it as a story for the journey in setting your shop. Everyone want to know the ending to story, and not have to find your new thread.

Cheers!

- CaptainKlutz

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I just saw this is more or less a repeat of the same question already asked. I know if you do this over on OWWM the threads will be merged (likely more work for admins) and the OP is likely asked to not do that again. I haven't yet make that mistake but it certainly does make sense to keep everything together so as to avoid multiple threads covering the same thing.

I have read up on the challenges of people with hammer ans grizzly. Grizzly you are on your own with guidance over the phone or internet. Hammer is the same thing unless you pay the 75$ an hour drive time and $150 an hour technician time. If Im laboring over a decision about a machine, i know i cant afford an $800 set up bill for a hammer. Granted i could be in the same boat setting it up myself but it looks to be a might more complicated than a planer or jointer seperate.

In example of tool companies, I've recently read where a popular yellow company has fell in quality and customer service compared to a green and white company. So through multiple threads and complaints, i guess the corporate philosophy eludes me

Sorry to use up more bytes. Figured a new thread would get noticed as the others have died. Im an indecisive person and i pay the penitence for that. I appreciate your comments and expertise klutz.

I would roll the dice with a Hammer machine.
Mostly because I don't like grizzly machines.
After owned several jointers I've come to the conclusion I would never buy a new jointer without inspecting it before I buy it. I stand by my statement because I have the necessary inspection equipment. Without the right equipment and knowledge how to use a jointer most will be striking out blind.
You might buy a machine that you don't like for different reasons then me. Nothing stops you from selling it to buy something different. The small loss you incur is just paying dues.
Good Luck

Well, i had my decision made tonight for me. Just picked up a hardly used powermatic 8" jointer and an older blue but in excellent condition jet planer for an excellent price. I appreciated the discussion and apologize for the multiple threads. I don't frequent forums much so etiquette slips by me.

I don't see the multiple threads as being offensive, just harder for some to follow along as one cohesive timeline.
Congrats on getting what sounds like good tools for a good price, hopefully they'll do exactly what you need.

Hopefully it'll be what i need. Again thanks to all for the information.

Well, i had my decision made tonight for me. Just picked up a hardly used powermatic 8" jointer and an older blue but in excellent condition jet planer for an excellent price. I appreciated the discussion and apologize for the multiple threads. I don t frequent forums much so etiquette slips by me.

- Watercolor

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Congratulations.
How big is the planer?
I am still using and old 6" jointer, and a 13" lunchbox planer at home.
But I am lucky to have access to a 12" Jointer and 24" planer when needed.
Sooner than later though, I am going to loose that as my friend retires and closes up shop.
Then it will be back to a router sled for me.
And no room in my small garage shop for a meaningful upgrade.