Learning About Dw 735 Planer: Grades, Material Standards, and Industrial Applications

Types of DW735 Planer Models

The Dewalt DW735 planer stands as a benchmark in portable thickness planers, renowned for its powerful 15-amp motor, dual-speed settings (6,000 and 10,000 RPM), and a 13-inch cutting width. Capable of handling both hardwoods and softwoods with precision, this planer is a favorite among professional woodworkers and dedicated hobbyists. Its robust construction, efficient chip ejection system, and consistent performance make it ideal for demanding workshop environments. Below is a detailed breakdown of the various DW735 model variants, their features, and ideal use cases.

DW735 (Standard Model)

The flagship Dewalt DW735 is a two-speed, 13-inch portable thickness planer designed for heavy-duty use. Weighing approximately 92 pounds, it features a powerful 15-amp motor that delivers 6,000 or 10,000 cuts per minute depending on the selected speed. Its integrated turbo charge fan system efficiently clears wood chips from the cutting chamber, reducing clogging and improving surface finish. This model is built for durability and precision, making it perfect for professionals who require consistent performance on large or dense wood projects.

Advantages

• High-powered 15-amp motor for tough materials
• Dual-speed settings for versatility
• Turbo charge fan for superior chip ejection
• Precision-ground cast-iron tables for flatness
• Robust construction for long-term durability

Limitations

• Heavier than many competitors (92 lbs)
• No included dust collection accessories
• Limited portability without a stand

Best for: Professional woodworkers, cabinet makers, and serious DIYers needing maximum power and reliability

DW735B (Bare Tool Version)

The DW735B is the tool-only version of the standard DW735, weighing slightly less at 90.2 pounds due to minor internal optimizations. This model does not include a stand, making it more affordable and allowing users to integrate it into existing workstations or pair it with third-party stands. Despite the lower price point, it retains all core performance features—dual-speed operation, 13-inch width capacity, and the same powerful motor—making it a cost-effective option for those who already have a suitable setup.

Advantages

• Same performance as standard DW735
• Lower purchase price (no stand included)
• Lighter weight improves transportability
• Greater flexibility in workshop integration

Limitations

• Requires separate purchase of stand
• No dust hood or roller extensions included
• Potential setup time if mounting custom support

Best for: Users with existing workbenches, budget-conscious buyers, and mobile contractors

DW735AW (Accessory Kit Model)

The DW735AW is a premium bundle that includes essential accessories to enhance productivity and cleanliness. It features the DW7350 dust hood, which connects directly to a shop vacuum for effective dust collection, minimizing airborne particles and keeping the workspace clean. Additionally, it comes with the DW7351 extension rollers, which provide critical support for long or heavy boards, preventing snipe and ensuring smooth feeding through the planer. This kit is ideal for users who want a complete, ready-to-use system out of the box.

Advantages

• Included dust hood improves air quality
• Extension rollers reduce material snipe
• Enhanced support for long workpieces
• Time-saving setup with integrated accessories
• Improved overall workflow efficiency

Limitations

• Higher initial cost than other variants
• Accessories may not be needed by all users
• Slightly more complex storage requirements

Best for: Workshops prioritizing dust control, users processing long lumber, and those seeking a complete out-of-box solution

Expert Tip: For optimal performance and reduced tear-out, always feed wood with the grain direction when using any DW735 model. Additionally, pairing the DW735AW’s dust hood with a high-CFM shop vacuum significantly improves dust extraction efficiency.

Durability and Material of DeWalt DW735 Planer

The DeWalt DW735 planer is engineered for long-term performance and professional-grade reliability. Built to withstand the demands of daily use in workshops and job sites, its construction combines robust materials and precision engineering to deliver consistent results over years of service. Whether handling softwoods or dense hardwoods, the DW735 maintains structural integrity and cutting accuracy, making it a trusted choice among woodworkers and contractors alike.

Core Components and Material Excellence

Solid Frame Construction

The DW735 features a heavy-duty cast-iron and steel body that provides exceptional rigidity and vibration dampening during operation. This rugged frame ensures stability when processing large or uneven stock, minimizing chatter and enhancing cut quality. The solid construction not only supports precision but also protects internal components from impact and stress, significantly extending the tool’s service life.

Its reinforced chassis is designed to endure frequent transport and harsh workshop environments, making it ideal for both stationary and mobile applications.

High-Quality Cutter Blades

Equipped with two reversible high-speed steel (HSS) blades, the DeWalt DW735 delivers clean, precise cuts across a wide range of wood types. HSS is renowned for its heat resistance and edge retention, allowing the blades to stay sharp even after extended use on abrasive materials like oak, maple, or reclaimed lumber.

Each blade offers four cutting edges (two per side), maximizing usability before resharpening is required. This design reduces long-term maintenance costs and downtime, enhancing productivity in high-volume settings.

Durable Steel Feed Rollers

The planer utilizes hardened steel infeed and outfeed rollers to grip and smoothly feed workpieces through the machine. Unlike plastic or rubber-coated rollers found on lower-end models, these steel rollers resist wear, slippage, and deformation under pressure, ensuring consistent feed rates and reducing the risk of snipe—a common issue where the leading or trailing edge of a board is slightly over-planed.

The aggressive knurling on the rollers enhances traction, especially on slippery or resinous woods, while minimizing surface marking on delicate materials.

Industrial-Grade Metal Gearing

Power transmission from the motor to the cutter head is handled by a full set of precision-cut metal gears. These gears are far more resilient than plastic alternatives used in budget tools, capable of withstanding high torque loads without stripping or cracking.

The metal gear system enables the DW735 to maintain consistent blade speed under load, crucial when tackling tough hardwoods or thick stock. This contributes directly to smoother finishes and reduced strain on the motor, promoting longer component life.

Reinforced Motor Housing

At the heart of the DW735 lies a powerful 15-amp motor, enclosed in a durable metal housing that shields internal components from dust, debris, and accidental impacts. While the motor itself is built to last, the protective casing plays a critical role in maintaining performance in dusty shop environments.

The housing also aids in heat dissipation, preventing overheating during prolonged use. Combined with a thermal overload protector, this design ensures safe and uninterrupted operation, even during marathon planing sessions.

Material Quality & Longevity Overview

Every major component of the DW735 is selected for durability and functional performance. From the cast-iron base to the hardened steel rollers and HSS blades, material choices reflect DeWalt’s commitment to professional-grade tools.

These materials not only resist wear and deformation but also contribute to the machine’s overall weight, which enhances stability. While heavier than some competitors, this weight translates into better control and reduced vibration—key factors in achieving fine surface finishes.

Maintenance Tips for Maximum Longevity

Important: Always disconnect the planer from power before performing any maintenance. Using improper tools or replacement parts can compromise safety and performance. Following DeWalt’s recommended care guidelines ensures optimal function and extends the life of your DW735 far beyond typical consumer-grade planers.

Scenarios of DeWalt DW735 Planer

The DeWalt DW735 13-Amp, 13-Inch Thickness Planer is a powerful, reliable, and versatile tool trusted by professionals and serious DIYers alike. With a dual-speed system (6,600 and 9,000 RPM), 2-knife cutter head, and robust 13-amp motor, it delivers precision performance across a wide range of woodworking applications. Its portability, ease of use, and consistent results make it a go-to tool in both shop and field environments.

Workshop Planing

Ideal for both small and large woodworking shops, the DW735 excels at dimensioning lumber to exact thicknesses. Whether you're working with dense hardwoods like oak and maple or softer woods like pine and poplar, the planer ensures smooth, uniform surfaces with minimal effort.

• Processes up to 6" wide and 6-1/4" thick stock for maximum versatility
• Produces consistent, flat surfaces essential for joinery and cabinetry
• Efficient feed rate of 20 feet per minute saves time on bulk material preparation
• Perfect for preparing blanks, glue-ups, and project stock with professional results

Pro Insight: Pair with a jointer for perfectly square and flat stock before final planing.

Job Site Operations

Portable and durable, the DW735 is increasingly used directly on construction sites where precision wood fitting is required. Carpenters and remodelers benefit from the ability to fine-tune boards on location, eliminating return trips to the shop.

• Enables real-time adjustments for custom trim, cabinetry, and framing
• Reduces waste by allowing field correction of warped or uneven lumber
• Durable construction withstands job site conditions and vibrations
• Quick setup and teardown make it ideal for mobile work crews

Time-Saver: On-site planing avoids delays caused by off-site processing and transportation.

Furniture Making

For custom furniture builders, the DW735 delivers the precision and surface quality needed for high-end craftsmanship. The dual-speed control allows woodworkers to switch between aggressive material removal and fine finishing passes.

• Low speed (6,600 RPM) ideal for rough planing and removing warps
• High speed (9,000 RPM) produces ultra-smooth finishes with minimal tear-out
• Produces consistent thickness critical for drawer fronts, table tops, and legs
• Compatible with sharp, high-quality blades for clean cuts on figured woods

Expert Tip: Use a sacrificial board at the start of each pass to prevent snipe and improve edge quality.

Decking Projects

Homeowners and contractors building wooden decks can use the DW735 to standardize the thickness of decking boards, especially when mixing lumber or using reclaimed wood. Uniform thickness ensures even spacing, secure fastening, and a professional appearance.

• Ensures consistent board height across the deck surface for a flush finish
• Helps salvage slightly warped or oversized boards instead of discarding them
• Improves drainage and reduces tripping hazards with level surfaces
• Can be used to slightly chamfer edges for a softer, finished look

Design Advantage: Custom-planed decking allows for seamless integration with built-in seating or railings.

Wood Resurfacing & Reclamation

The DW735 is a powerful ally in restoring old or salvaged wood. Whether removing paint, smoothing weathered surfaces, or eliminating cupping and warping, the planer breathes new life into reclaimed lumber with far less effort than hand sanding or scraping.

• Safely removes old finishes, stains, and surface damage in controlled passes
• Restores flatness to warped or twisted boards from barn wood or pallets
• Enables sustainable woodworking by repurposing materials
• Ideal for creating rustic-chic furniture, wall paneling, or accent pieces

Caution: Always inspect reclaimed wood for nails, stones, or debris before planing to protect blades.

Blade Maintenance & Upgrades

The performance of the DW735 heavily depends on the condition of its blades. While the stock DeWalt DW735 planer blades are durable, upgrading or maintaining them is key to long-term success.

• Blades should be inspected regularly and sharpened every 5–10 hours of use
• Aftermarket carbide-tipped or high-speed steel blades extend service life
• Proper alignment prevents snipe and ensures even cutting depth
• Keep spare blades on hand to minimize downtime during projects

Maintenance Tip: Clean the cutter head and housing periodically to prevent pitch buildup and ensure smooth operation.

Professional Recommendation: For optimal results, always feed wood with the grain direction when possible, and make multiple light passes instead of one aggressive cut. This reduces strain on the motor, improves surface finish, and extends blade life. Additionally, use a moisture meter before planing to avoid issues with wood movement post-machining.

Additional Considerations

• Dust Collection: Connect a 2.5" dust port to a shop vacuum or dust collector to maintain visibility and improve air quality.
• Snipe Reduction: Support workpieces fully and use outfeed support to minimize snipe at board ends.
• Noise Level: The DW735 operates at approximately 100 dB—always use hearing protection during extended use.
• Power Requirements: Requires a dedicated 15-amp circuit for optimal performance, especially with long or dense stock.
• Storage: Store with the infeed table closed to protect the blades and save space.

How to Choose the Right DEWALT DW735 Planer: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide

Selecting the right DEWALT DW735 planer is essential for achieving professional-quality results in your woodworking projects. Known for its durability, power, and precision, the DW735 series is a top choice among hobbyists and professionals alike. This guide will help you evaluate key factors—such as budget, accessories, stand options, usage requirements, and model variations—to make an informed decision that aligns with your workshop needs and long-term goals.

Important Note: The DEWALT DW735 is a stationary planer designed for consistent thicknessing of rough lumber. Always follow safety protocols when operating power tools, including wearing eye and hearing protection, securing workpieces properly, and keeping hands clear of moving blades.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a DW735 Planer

• Budget and Long-Term Value

  The DEWALT DW735 series is positioned as a premium tool, with prices reflecting its robust motor, precision components, and durable construction. While it may cost more than entry-level planers, its performance, reliability, and resale value make it a worthwhile investment for serious woodworkers.

  When assessing budget, consider not just the initial purchase price but also long-term savings from reduced maintenance, consistent performance, and compatibility with a wide range of accessories. Avoid cutting corners on critical tools—your planer will directly impact the quality and efficiency of your woodworking output.

• Choosing the Right Stand for Stability and Mobility

  The stand you select plays a crucial role in the planer’s usability, safety, and portability. DEWALT offers two primary stand options designed specifically for the DW735:

  • DW7351 Stand: A portable, foldable stand that allows for easy transport and quick setup. Ideal for contractors, mobile woodworkers, or those with limited storage space. Its lightweight frame doesn’t compromise stability during operation.
  • DW7350 Stand: A fixed, heavy-duty stand built for permanent placement in a workshop. Offers maximum stability and vibration reduction, making it perfect for high-volume or precision work.

  Your choice should reflect your primary usage environment. If you frequently move your tools or work on job sites, the DW7351 is the better option. For a dedicated home or professional shop, the DW7350 provides superior rigidity and long-term comfort.

• Essential Accessories to Enhance Performance

  Several factory-approved accessories can significantly improve the functionality and convenience of your DW735 planer:

  • DW7350 Dust Hood: Connects directly to a shop vacuum or dust collection system, minimizing airborne sawdust and keeping your workspace clean and safe. Essential for maintaining air quality and protecting your respiratory health.
  • DW7351 Extension Rollers: Attach to the infeed and outfeed sides to support long or heavy boards, preventing sagging and ensuring smooth, even feeding. Particularly useful when working with large panels or dimensional lumber.
  • Blade Sharpness Indicator & Replacement Kit: Helps monitor blade wear and ensures consistently smooth cuts. Replacement knives are available separately and are easy to install.

  Investing in these accessories upfront can save time, reduce fatigue, and extend the life of your planer.

• Matching the Tool to Your Usage Requirements

  The DW735 is engineered for heavy-duty, frequent use. With a powerful 15-amp motor and a three-knife cutter head, it delivers up to 96 cuts per inch, producing a smooth, finished surface with minimal sanding required.

  This planer excels in scenarios such as:

  • Preparing rough-sawn lumber for furniture or cabinetry
  • Thicknessing large batches of wood for flooring or shelving
  • Restoring warped or uneven boards to consistent dimensions

  If your projects involve processing thick or dense hardwoods (like oak, maple, or walnut), the DW735’s 12.5" width capacity and 6" maximum cutting depth make it an ideal choice. However, if you only occasionally plane small pieces, a lighter-duty model might suffice.

• Understanding Model Variants: DW735 vs. DW735B vs. DW735AW

  While all models share the same core planer mechanism, there are important differences in packaging and included accessories:

  Model	Key Features	Ideal For	What’s Included
  DW735	Base model with standard features	Professional woodworkers who already own accessories	Planer only, no stand or dust hood
  DW735B	Bare tool version (no batteries or charger)	Users building a DEWALT ecosystem; cost-conscious buyers	Planer only, minimal packaging
  DW735AW	All-in-one kit with premium accessories	Hobbyists and DIYers wanting a complete setup	Includes stand, dust hood, extension rollers, and carry case

  The DW735AW is often the best value for new users, as it eliminates the need to purchase accessories separately. The DW735 and DW735B are better suited for those who already have compatible stands or dust collection systems.

Expert Tip: Before purchasing, check local availability of replacement blades and service centers. The DW735 uses standard 3-knife sets, but having a spare set on hand ensures uninterrupted workflow. Regular maintenance—such as cleaning the rollers and checking belt tension—will keep your planer running smoothly for years.

Final Recommendations

• Assess your typical project size and frequency to determine if the DW735’s capacity matches your needs.
• Choose the stand based on your workspace: portable (DW7351) for mobility, fixed (DW7350) for stability.
• Consider purchasing the DW735AW kit if you’re new to planing—it offers the best out-of-box experience.
• Always pair your planer with a reliable dust extraction system to maintain a clean, safe shop environment.
• Read user reviews and watch demonstration videos to see the planer in action before buying.

The DEWALT DW735 planer is more than just a tool—it’s a long-term investment in your craftsmanship. By carefully evaluating your budget, workspace, and project demands, you can select the right configuration to maximize efficiency, accuracy, and satisfaction in every cut. Whether you're building fine furniture or renovating your home, the DW735 delivers professional results with the durability DEWALT is known for.

Frequently Asked Questions About the DeWalt DW735 Planer

The DeWalt DW735 planer is a high-performance power tool designed for precision woodworking. It is primarily used to smooth rough lumber and achieve consistent, uniform thickness across wooden boards. Whether you're preparing stock for furniture, cabinetry, or flooring, the DW735 allows woodworkers to remove material evenly and efficiently, ensuring a professional-grade finish.

• Ideal for dimensioning lumber to exact thicknesses
• Perfect for flattening warped or uneven boards
• Commonly used in both hobbyist workshops and professional job sites
• Capable of handling hardwoods like oak, maple, and walnut, as well as softwoods

Its dual-speed settings (16,500 and 22,000 RPM) provide flexibility depending on wood type and desired surface quality, making it a versatile addition to any woodshop.

In woodworking, the DeWalt DW735 planer serves as a critical tool for material preparation. It enables users to transform rough-sawn or inconsistent lumber into smooth, dimensionally accurate boards ready for joinery, sanding, or final assembly.

• Stock Preparation: Reduces thickness of oversized lumber to match project specifications.
• Surface Smoothing: Removes saw marks, mill glaze, and minor warps from wood surfaces.
• Batch Processing: Efficiently processes multiple boards to the same thickness for uniformity in large projects.
• Waste Reduction: Allows precise control over material removal, minimizing unnecessary waste compared to hand planing or sanding.

With its 13-amp motor and helical cutter head featuring three reversible carbide-tipped knives, the DW735 delivers clean cuts with minimal tear-out, even on challenging grain patterns.

Yes, the DeWalt DW735 is widely regarded as one of the best benchtop planers in its class. It combines professional-grade performance with user-friendly features, making it suitable for both serious hobbyists and full-time woodworkers.

• Powerful Motor: A 13-amp motor ensures consistent performance even under heavy load.
• Precision Depth Control: Offers fine adjustments down to 1/32 inch for accurate material removal.
• Durable Construction: Built with a cast-iron bed and reinforced housing for long-term stability and reduced vibration.
• Convenient Features: Includes a dust collection port (compatible with most shop vacs), front and rear rollers for smooth feeding, and intuitive depth adjustment knob.

Its ability to handle a wide range of wood types and thicknesses—up to 12 inches wide and 6 inches thick—makes it a reliable workhorse in demanding environments. While it requires proper setup and maintenance, its performance-to-price ratio is exceptional in the mid-range planer market.

The DeWalt DW735 weighs approximately 92 pounds (about 41.7 kg). This substantial weight contributes significantly to its operational stability and durability.

• Vibration Damping: The mass helps absorb operational vibrations, resulting in smoother cuts and improved accuracy.
• Workpiece Control: Reduces chatter during planing, especially when working with dense hardwoods.
• Portability Consideration: While heavy, it's still considered portable for a benchtop planer—many users mount it on a rolling stand for easier movement.
• Bench Requirement: Due to its weight, it should be placed on a sturdy workbench or stand to prevent wobbling or damage to lighter surfaces.

The weight also reflects the use of high-quality internal components and materials, reinforcing its reputation as a durable, long-lasting tool built for serious woodworking applications.

The DeWalt DW735 is designed for two-handed operation to ensure maximum control, safety, and efficiency during use.

• Ergonomic Handles: Front and rear handles allow users to guide the board smoothly into and through the planer, maintaining consistent pressure and feed rate.
• Stability Enhancement: Using both hands minimizes the risk of kickback and helps prevent snipe (excessive material removal at board ends).
• Fatigue Reduction: The balanced design and dual-grip setup distribute effort evenly, allowing for longer sessions without strain.
• Feed Rate Control: Proper hand placement enables users to maintain an optimal feed speed, which is crucial for achieving a clean, smooth finish.

While the machine is stationary, user interaction involves feeding the wood through the planer manually. The dual-grip technique not only improves precision but also enhances safety by keeping hands at a safe distance from the cutter head. For best results, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for setup, blade maintenance, and dust extraction to maximize performance and tool lifespan.