Bosch PL2632K 3-1/4 Inch Woodworking Hand Planer Review

Few brands out there are capable of making a precise, powerful, and reliable planer that has a motor which will last you as much as this one right here. The Bosch PL2632K 3-1/4 Inch Woodworking Hand Planer is part of Bosch’s new line of products which have seen improvements in almost all areas. In this review, I will go over some of the features of this planer, show you where it is best at, and what are his main disadvantages.

My Verdict: Even though the Bosch PL2632K doesn’t bring the best price to the table, it still brings a familiar Bosch performance. This planer is potent, durable, and not too heavy, making it easy to work with. It isn’t cordless which can be a downside for some people, but the 6.5Amp motor is more than capable of handling anything you throw at it. If you are willing to pay the big price tag, there are few planers out there that can match this level of performance.

If you want to learn more about these tools, head over to my Buyer’s Guide on some of the best hand planers for this year. There, I’ve also compiled a list of other top models. Now, let’s get started with the features of this Bosch model…

Overview & Features

Bosch tools are defined by their rigidity and longevity and this one is no exception to that. From the moment you pick it up, the first few things you notice is that it is surprisingly lightweight but also extremely well put together in terms of its construction.

Most people will be interested in a little further information about the motor. Let’s start with that…

Motor

The motor on the PL2632K is a 6.5 Amp one that produces a no-load RPM of 16,500. This easily translates into 33,000 cuts per minute and the tool can surprisingly maintain that speed even under heavy load. That is actually one of the main advantages of corded planers, as opposed to battery-operated ones. They are much more consistent with their power which is often crucial for a universally good result across your work.

While this could’ve been an 8 Amp motor, I still appreciate Bosch downgrading it a little bit just so it can long. And lasting long is one of the core features of most this planer, which is why a lot of people consider getting it instead of saving a few bucks and getting a cheaper model that will hardly last a year or two.

Shoes

The front and back shoes of this planer are aluminum just like almost all of its competitors. There is one specific feature regarding the shoes that I like a lot. They are precision-machined together after the whole assembly process of the tool. This ensures higher accuracy and also prevents a well-known issue in this industry which is planers coming misaligned.

Adjustments

The ratcheting depth knob has a comfortable rubberized feeling to it and is easy to use and adjust your cutting depths. It goes from 0 to 3/32 inches (2.6mm). It also does so with a single revolution which eliminates the need to constantly re-zero your depth. The planning width goes from 0 to 3 1/4 inches as well.

In terms of rabbeting, the depth is 5/16 inches and the width is 3 1/4 inches.

Design & Build Quality

In terms of build quality and design, there isn’t really a question as to how well-built this planer is. With premium brands, that is often the case. The handles are nicely rubberized and the whole tool weighs a little over 6 pounds making it quite light for what it is.

There is an ejection switch at the top of the main handle which controls the flow of wood shavings. You can have a dust chute or a shop vac at either one of the sides. That, combined with the ambidextrous grip and usability makes this a really easy tool to work with both of your hands at any position. The durable ball-joint swivel at the back also helps with the power cord not getting in your way. Just like the Dewalt DCP580B, this planer has an enhanced poly micro-V drive belt which helps with power delivery and durability of the motor.

As I mentioned, this planer is corded and that takes away some of its practicality but it also has a very steady power delivery combined with an efficient and durable motor. If you are looking for a cordless model I suggest checking my Makita XPK01Z review.

Additional Features

One of the additional features that I particularly enjoy on this planer is the spring-loaded kickstand used to keep the tool elevated, ultimately protecting your resting spot from accidental scratches. It also keeps the blade safe from hitting any hard objects.

There are also additional high-speed steel blades that are sold separately for this model. They are excellent for a heavy-duty task and have a much longer life, but will also cost you a little extra.

The tool comes, as standard, with reversible Bosch Woodrazor micrograin blades that are made out of carbide. If you ask me, these are easily good enough for most jobs and will last quite a while before needing replacement.

Lastly, there is the dual-mount guide fence which you can mount to either one of the sides of the Bosch PL2632K planer. It has a plastic overshoe which will prevent marring on the wooden surface you’re working on.

Advantages & Disadvantages

Pros

Cons

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Conclusion and Rating

My Rating: (4.5/5)

The Bosch PL2632K 3-1/4 Inch Woodworking Hand Planer is a great all-around tool that is set back only by its price and lack of cordless capabilities. It has a very durable and powerful motor that, combined with the twin-carbide blades can handle almost any task you throw at it. The ambidextrous working capabilities make the planer exceptionally easy to work with and the lightweight construction will help your hands feel less tired at the end of a long day.