By team 
Introduction
If you’re looking for a compact yet powerful jointer for your woodworking projects, the 111-356 Jointer might just be the tool you need. This benchtop jointer is perfect for hobbyists and small-shop woodworkers, offering a balance of portability and performance. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the 111-356 Jointer specs, exploring its features, performance capabilities, common applications, and how to maintain it for long-term use. By the end of this article, you’ll have a solid understanding of why this jointer is a popular choice for many.
What is a Jointer?
Before diving into the 111-356 Jointer specs, it’s essential to understand what a jointer is and why it’s important in woodworking. A jointer is a tool used to flatten the faces of rough lumber and straighten the edges. It consists of a flat table with a spinning cutterhead that removes material to create smooth, even surfaces. Woodworkers use jointers to prepare wood for further machining, such as planing or sanding.
Jointers come in various sizes and styles, including benchtop, floor-standing, and combination models. The 111-356 Jointer is a benchtop model, ideal for smaller shops or limited workspace.
Key Features of the 111-356 Jointer
The 111-356 Jointer stands out for its compact size and impressive features, making it a perfect choice for small to medium woodworking projects. Some of its key features include:
- Compact Design: Its small footprint makes it easy to store and move, which is a significant advantage for hobbyists with limited space.
- Portability: Weighing between 60 to 70 pounds, it’s relatively easy to carry and set up, ideal for workshops that require mobility.
- Affordable: Compared to larger, more professional-grade jointers, the 111-356 Jointer offers an affordable solution without sacrificing quality.
Detailed Specifications of the 111-356 Jointer
Let’s break down the 111-356 Jointer specs in more detail. Understanding these specifications will give you a clearer picture of what this tool can do and how it can benefit your woodworking projects.
1. Cutting Width: 6 Inches
The cutting width of the 111-356 Jointer is 6 inches. This is the maximum width of wood that the jointer can handle in a single pass. A 6-inch cutting width is ideal for smaller to medium-sized projects. For larger pieces of wood, you may need to make multiple passes or consider a wider jointer.
2. Motor Power: 1 HP, 120V
The motor of the 111-356 Jointer provides 1 horsepower (HP) of power at 120 volts, delivering reliable performance for most woodworking tasks. This motor power allows the jointer to cut through softwoods and hardwoods effectively. While it may not be as powerful as larger models, it is well-suited for small to medium projects in a home workshop.
3. Cutterhead Speed: 10,000 RPM
The cutterhead speed of the 111-356 Jointer is 10,000 revolutions per minute (RPM), which is a standard speed for benchtop jointers. This speed ensures efficient material removal and clean, smooth cuts, allowing you to achieve a flat and square edge on your boards.
4. Fence Size: 4.5 x 24 Inches
The fence of the 111-356 Jointer measures 4.5 inches high and 24 inches long, providing excellent support for your workpieces. A larger fence helps maintain control over the wood, ensuring that your cuts remain precise and square. The adjustable fence also allows for beveled cuts, making the 111-356 Jointer more versatile for various applications.
5. Table Size: 6 x 30 Inches
The table size of the 111-356 Jointer is 6 inches by 30 inches. This provides ample space for supporting wood pieces while you make passes through the cutterhead. A larger table helps keep the wood stable, minimizing any potential for warping or twisting during the jointing process.
6. Knife Type: Straight Knives
The 111-356 Jointer features straight knives, which are simple yet effective for smoothing wood surfaces. Straight knives are relatively easy to sharpen and replace, making maintenance straightforward. They provide a smooth finish and are generally good for most types of wood.
7. Dimensions: 34.5 x 17 x 14 Inches
The compact dimensions of the 111-356 Jointer make it a perfect fit for smaller workshops. It measures 34.5 inches in length, 17 inches in width, and 14 inches in height, which allows it to sit comfortably on a workbench or table without taking up too much space.
8. Weight: 60-70 lbs
Weighing between 60 and 70 pounds, the 111-356 Jointer is light enough to be portable, yet heavy enough to provide stability during use. Its manageable weight makes it a practical choice for those who need a portable tool but still require solid performance.
Performance and Efficiency
The 111-356 Jointer is designed to handle small to medium woodworking tasks with ease. Thanks to its 1 HP motor and 10,000 RPM cutterhead speed, it offers a solid performance for flattening, edge jointing, and squaring boards. The 6-inch cutting width and 30-inch table length provide adequate space to work with most pieces of lumber, while the 4.5-inch high fence ensures accurate cuts.
Its motor can power through softwoods like pine and hardwoods like oak, making it versatile for various woodworking applications. However, it may struggle with extremely dense hardwoods or larger stock, so understanding its limits is essential for achieving optimal results.
Advantages of Using the 111-356 Jointer
The 111-356 Jointer offers several benefits that make it a popular choice for woodworking enthusiasts:
- Space-Saving Design: Its compact design allows it to fit into small workshops, making it ideal for hobbyists or professionals working with limited space.
- Affordability: Compared to larger jointers, the 111-356 Jointer offers great value for money, providing essential features at a more affordable price point.
- Ease of Use: With its simple setup and user-friendly controls, even beginners can use the 111-356 Jointer effectively.
- Versatility: The adjustable fence and straight knives provide flexibility for various projects, from edge jointing to flattening rough lumber.
Common Applications
The 111-356 Jointer is perfect for small to medium woodworking projects, such as:
- Furniture making: Flattening boards for tabletops, legs, and other furniture parts.
- Cabinetmaking: Jointing edges for cabinet components and doors.
- General woodcraft: Smoothing and squaring wood for a variety of other woodworking projects.
It is ideal for hobbyists, DIYers, and even professional woodworkers who need a reliable, compact tool for smaller-scale projects.
Comparison with Other Jointers
When comparing the 111-356 Jointer to larger jointers, the primary differences are in cutting width and motor power. Larger jointers typically have wider tables and more powerful motors, allowing them to handle bigger pieces of lumber. However, for most small to medium projects, the 111-356 Jointer offers more than enough performance. Its compact size also makes it easier to store and transport, which is a major advantage in a small workshop.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Maintaining your 111-356 Jointer is crucial for ensuring its longevity and performance. Here are some key tips for keeping it in top condition:
- Clean the Table and Cutterhead: Regularly clean the table and cutterhead after use to remove wood dust and resin buildup.
- Sharpen the Blades: Over time, the straight knives may dull. Sharpen them periodically to maintain smooth cuts.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Ensure that the table and fence move smoothly by applying appropriate lubricant to the moving parts.
- Check Alignment: Periodically check the alignment of the table and fence to ensure accurate jointing.
User Reviews and Feedback
The 111-356 Jointer has received positive reviews for its performance and ease of use. Many users appreciate its compact design and affordable price, making it a great option for hobbyists. Some have noted that while it may not be suitable for heavy-duty commercial use, it excels at handling smaller woodworking tasks with precision.
Conclusion
In summary, the 111-356 Jointer is a versatile, compact, and affordable tool that delivers reliable performance for small to medium woodworking projects. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker, this benchtop jointer offers a solid solution for flattening, edge jointing, and preparing your lumber. With its user-friendly design, efficient motor, and easy maintenance, the 111-356 Jointer is an excellent investment for any workshop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What types of wood can I use with the 111-356 Jointer?
A1: The 111-356 Jointer works well with softwoods like pine, as well as hardwoods like oak and maple. However, it may struggle with dense hardwoods or very large pieces.
Q2: How often do I need to replace the blades?
A2: The blades on the 111-356 Jointer should be replaced when they become dull or chipped. Regular sharpening can extend their life.
Q3: Is the 111-356 Jointer suitable for professional use?
A3: While the 111-356 Jointer is perfect for hobbyists and small workshops, it may not be powerful enough for heavy commercial use. It’s best for small to medium-sized projects.
