Type of machine
JointerManufacturer
PowermaticDesigned in
United States
Production status
New
Prices from
 Jointing width: 298 mm |
 Power: 2237 W |
 Max jointing depth: 19 mm |
Tables length: 2133 mm |
| Type of Cutters: 42 helical head cutters | Fence Tilt: -45 to 45 ° |
| Fence length: 1200 mm |
The Powermatic 1285 Helical Head is a 12-inch jointer and the second most expensive machine among Powermatic’s jointers. It is nearly identical to the Powermatic 1285 jointer, except for having helical head cutters instead of standard straight blades.
It is available in two versions: One with a single phase, 230V motor, and one version with a three phase motor that can be wired for 230V or 460V. So make sure your shop has the right electrics set up to handle the specific model you’re interested in.
The Helical Head model is about 20% more expensive than the 1285 with normal blades. Helical head cutters are quieter, last longer, easier to replace, and are better at handling difficult grain. This makes the upgrade quite attractive, especially considering that the standard 1285 has classic blades and not even quick-set standard blades.
In contrast to the smaller Powermatic jointers with helical head cutters, on the 1285 it is actually possible to use the rabbeting ledge. On the smaller models this is usually only possible on straight blade models.
Replacement Carbide Inserts: You can find replacement carbide cutter inserts for the Powermatic 1285HH on Amazon, or eBay. Ebay sells them a little cheaper, even though they seem to be exactly the same product.
Good build quality and helical head cutters. One of the best jointers of this size and price.
Know a useful link or video for the Powermatic 1285 Helical Head Jointer? Send me a message, and I'll update the page with your info.
Machine Atlas Guides
Finding the right Powermatic Jointer — all models compared
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Powermatic makes 10 different jointers. Which one is right for you? Find out their differences in this article.
Reviews and Videos
How to use the Powermatic 1285 Jointer
youtube.com
Instructional video by Glen Martin showing some basic features of the Powermatic 1285 Jointer.
Promotional video showing the 1285 Jointer in use
youtube.com
Video by the Russian subsidiary of Powermatic showing the 1285 and all its functions. In Russian, but the images speak for themselves.
General
Official page on Powermatic's website
powermatic.com
The official page of the 1285 with helical head on Powermatic's website. You'll find images, specs, and more.
Manuals
Official manual of the 1285 Helical Head [PDF]
powermatic.com
Official manual of the Powermatic 1285 with Helical Head. Contains an assembly guide and detailed instructions.
Find the lowest prices for the Powermatic 1285 Helical Head Jointer, updated daily
| Store | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | $8799.99 |
United StatesPrices last updated: 2 year(s) ago
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All the specs and options for the Powermatic 1285 Helical Head Jointer
| General | |
|---|---|
| Weight (standard configuration) | 345 kg |
| Total height | 1117 mm |
| Total width | 965 mm |
| Motor | |
| Motor Voltage | 3x 230V 1x 230V 3x 460V |
| Extra Features and Options | |
|---|---|
| Rabbeting ledge | Included |
| Jointer | |
|---|---|
| Jointing width | 298 mm |
| Max depth of cut | 19 mm |
| Tables length | 2133 mm |
| Type of cutters | 42 helical head cutters |
| Fence length | 1200 mm |
| Fence tilt | -45 to 45° |
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