Machine overview
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The Powermatic PJ882 is the most affordable jointer with a parallelogram base made by Powermatic. It is nearly identical to the PJ-882HH, which has helical head cutters instead of the standard blades found on the PJ882.
Powermatic sells two types of 8-inch jointers: One with a parallelogram base (the PJ882 and PJ-882HH), and one with a dovetailed wedge-bed base (the 60C/60HH). Parallelogram jointers are considered to be slightly better. Parallelogram beds are less susceptible to wear and will maintain their position better. Dovetailed wedge-bed jointers can sag over time making the two tables unable to be set parallel.
The PJ882 also has longer tables and a longer, more stable base than the 60C and 60HH. This also makes it heavier. All this combined means the PJ882 is a more stable and sturdy machine.
The PJ882 uses standard straight blades, which is a downside because these are much more cumbersome to replace and last less long, and are also louder than helical head cutters. It also (for some reason) lacks quick-set blades found on some cheaper Powermatic jointers.
One advantage the PJ882 has over its Helical Head brother is that it can be used for rabbeting. This is not possible with the helical head model.
Cons
- Limited width
- Lacks helical head cutters
- No quick-set knives as found on cheaper Powermatic jointers
Pros
- Parallelogram bed makes changing table height easier
- Less chance of wear when changing table height (compared to wedge-bed jointers)
- Rabbeting possible
- Heavy and sturdy machine
- Long tables