18v Planers

About 18v Planers

Cordless 18v planers deliver the power and precision needed for professional woodworking without the constraints of mains cables. These battery-powered tools efficiently shave, smooth and reshape timber, making them essential for carpenters, joiners and serious DIY enthusiasts tackling everything from door fitting to chamfering edges. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks models from leading manufacturers including Makita, DeWalt, Milwaukee and Einhell, ranging from compact units for light trimming to heavy-duty brushless planers capable of removing up to 3mm per pass.

The 18v platform has become the industry standard for cordless power tools, offering an optimal balance between power output, battery runtime and tool weight. Modern brushless motor technology ensures these planers can tackle demanding hardwood tasks whilst maximising battery efficiency. Most feature double-edged tungsten carbide blades, adjustable depth settings and integrated dust extraction ports for cleaner, more precise working.

Applications

Cordless 18v planers are versatile tools suited to numerous trades and applications:

• Carpenters and Joiners: Fitting doors, trimming architraves, preparing timber for joinery work, creating bevels and chamfers
• Kitchen and Bathroom Installers: Scribing worktops, adjusting door frames, trimming timber fillers around uneven walls
• Decking Specialists: Smoothing rough-sawn timbers, chamfering deck board edges, preparing posts and rails
• Renovation Contractors: Removing old paint and varnish, levelling uneven floorboards, restoring historic timber features
• Window Fitters: Adjusting timber frames and sills, creating weatherproofing bevels
• Shopfitters: Adjusting timber components during commercial fit-outs where mains access is restricted
• DIY Enthusiasts: Furniture restoration, garden construction, home improvements requiring cordless convenience

Choosing The Right 18v Planers

Planing Width and Depth: Compact 82mm models suit door edges and narrow stock, whilst professional 110mm planers handle wider boards efficiently. Maximum planing depth (typically 1-3mm) determines material removal speed—prioritise 2mm+ capacity for hardwoods and heavy stock removal.

Motor Technology: Brushless motors deliver 25-50% longer runtime, superior power and extended lifespan compared to brushed alternatives. MyToolShed.co.uk recommends brushless models for professional daily use, whilst brushed motors offer adequate performance for lighter, intermittent DIY applications.

Battery Compatibility: Choose planers compatible with your existing 18v battery platform (Makita LXT, DeWalt XR, Milwaukee M18, Einhell Power X-Change) to eliminate duplicate battery investment. Consider whether bare units or complete kits with batteries and charger better suit your requirements.

Additional Features: Removable side fences enable rebating work for hinge recesses and joinery. Integrated chamfer grooves facilitate 45-degree bevelling. Quality dust extraction improves visibility and working conditions. Aluminium shoes ensure durability and maintain flatness for accurate results.

Safety Information

Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection when operating planers. Wood dust presents respiratory hazards—connect to suitable dust extraction and wear appropriate respiratory protection in accordance with HSE guidance. Secure workpieces firmly using clamps or vices; never hold small pieces by hand. Remove batteries when changing blades or making adjustments. Inspect timber for nails or screws before planing to prevent blade damage or kickback. Allow planers to reach full speed before contacting workpieces and maintain firm two-handed grip throughout operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can 18v cordless planers handle hardwoods like oak?

Yes, modern 18v brushless planers from brands stocked at MyToolShed.co.uk deliver sufficient power for hardwoods. Take shallower passes (0.5-1mm) and use fully charged, higher capacity batteries (5.0Ah+) for best results and consistent power delivery.

How long will an 18v planer run on a single battery?

A 4.0Ah battery typically provides 15-25 minutes continuous planing in softwood, or approximately 15-30 door edges. A 5.0Ah battery extends runtime by around 25%. Keep spare charged batteries available for uninterrupted site work.

What's the difference between brushed and brushless 18v planers?

Brushless motors use electronic controllers instead of carbon brushes, delivering 25-50% longer runtime per charge, more consistent power under load and significantly extended tool life with no brush replacement required. Whilst initially more expensive, they offer superior value for professional users.