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Shop Fox

Shop Fox W1742 15-Inch Planer

  • 15-inch capacity
  • Cast iron in/out feed tables
  • Mobile base
  • Belt drive
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On this page

Is the Shop Fox W1742 15-Inch Planer worth it?

Yes, for the right buyer. The Shop Fox W1742 15-Inch Planer ranks #7 in our Best Wood Planer 2026 list (best shop fox). Its biggest strength: belt drive transmission is quieter and smoother than gear-driven planers. The main caveat: less common than DeWalt or Ridgid -- fewer user reviews.

Overview

What the Shop Fox W1742 15-Inch Planer does well

Best belt-drive planer. It stands out for belt drive transmission is quieter and smoother than gear-driven planers and cast iron in/out feed tables hold their flatness better than stamped steel. One caveat, less common than DeWalt or Ridgid -- fewer user reviews.

Specs that matter

Key features

  • 15-inch capacity
  • Cast iron in/out feed tables
  • Mobile base
  • Belt drive
The trade-offs

Pros & cons

Pros

  • Belt drive transmission is quieter and smoother than gear-driven planers
  • Cast iron in/out feed tables hold their flatness better than stamped steel
  • Mobile base for shop positioning flexibility
  • Shop Fox (Woodstock) offers strong value for the price

Cons

  • Less common than DeWalt or Ridgid -- fewer user reviews
  • 15-inch capacity and weight require a dedicated floor space
Fit check

Should you buy the Shop Fox W1742 15-Inch Planer?

Think twice if this matters to you

  • Less common than DeWalt or Ridgid -- fewer user reviews
  • 15-inch capacity and weight require a dedicated floor space
Where it ranks

Featured in 1 best-of list

ListRank
Best Wood Planer 2026· Best Shop Fox#7 / 8
Cross-shop

Alternatives to the Shop Fox W1742 15-Inch Planer

Products ranked near it in our research, each better for a slightly different buyer.

Buying advice: woodworking

  1. Clamps, a combination square, a good saw and a drill cover most beginner projects.
  2. You can never have too many. Bar clamps handle wide glue-ups; quick-grip clamps are fast for smaller work.
  3. Standard wood glue suits indoor projects. Water-resistant glue suits outdoor work and cutting boards.
  4. Oils are easy to apply and repair. Polyurethane and varnish protect tabletops and floors better.
  5. Eye and hearing protection and dust collection matter from the first project. Lay oily rags flat to dry to prevent fires.

Read the full guides

Answers

Shop Fox W1742 15-Inch Planer: common questions

Is the Shop Fox W1742 15-Inch Planer worth buying?

Yes, for the right buyer. The Shop Fox W1742 15-Inch Planer ranks #7 in our Best Wood Planer 2026 list (best shop fox). Its biggest strength: belt drive transmission is quieter and smoother than gear-driven planers. The main caveat: less common than DeWalt or Ridgid -- fewer user reviews.

What are the downsides of the Shop Fox W1742 15-Inch Planer?

The main trade-offs owners and reviewers point to: less common than DeWalt or Ridgid -- fewer user reviews; 15-inch capacity and weight require a dedicated floor space.

What are the key features of the Shop Fox W1742 15-Inch Planer?

15-inch capacity, Cast iron in/out feed tables, Mobile base and Belt drive.

What are the best alternatives to the Shop Fox W1742 15-Inch Planer?

Worth comparing: WEN 6552T 15-Amp 13-Inch Benchtop Planer, Makita 2012NB 12-Inch Planer and Rikon 25-130H 13-Inch Planer with Helical Head. Each ranks near it in our research for a slightly different buyer.

Where can I buy the Shop Fox W1742 15-Inch Planer?

It's sold on Amazon. Prices and stock change often, so check the current listing before you buy, our link takes you straight to it.

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