Introduction—What the “111-356 Jointer” Means
The code 111-356 Jointer often appears in tool listings, catalogs, or parts references. It may represent a specific jointer model number, a spare part identifier, or even an inventory SKU used by retailers and manufacturers. Understanding what this code stands for is essential if you are buying, repairing, or maintaining woodworking equipment.
Jointers are critical machines in any woodworking shop. They prepare flat and square surfaces that form the foundation for accurate joinery. If you’ve come across a jointer with the designation “111-356,” this guide will help you understand its possible significance, its features, and how to get the best results from such a machine.
II. What a Jointer Is and How It Works
A jointer is a woodworking machine designed to flatten faces and straighten edges of boards. It consists of two tables (infeed and outfeed) with a rotating cutterhead between them. The infeed table is set slightly lower than the outfeed table, determining the depth of cut. As a board passes over the cutterhead, it removes material and leaves a flat reference surface.
Jointers are used to:
Flatten rough stock before planing
Straighten edges for gluing panels
Square an edge to a face for joinery
Cut rabbets or bevels with fence adjustments
Common types include compact benchtop jointers (4–6″ width), mid-size jointers (8–12″), and industrial jointers (16″ and larger). Cutterheads may use straight knives or modern spiral/helical inserts.
III. The Significance of the Model Number 111-356
The number 111-356 could refer to:
A machine model—identifying a specific jointer sold by a brand.
A replacement part code—pointing to cutterheads, belts, or guards.
An inventory or catalog number—used by distributors to track stock.
A worn or partial serial number—sometimes misread from older plates.
If you encounter this code, examine where it appears: on a machine nameplate, in a parts invoice, or on a reseller listing. Pairing the code with physical characteristics such as cutter width, fence design, and motor plate details often reveals whether it is a full machine model or a part designation.
IV. Key Features to Research in a 111-356 Jointer
When evaluating or identifying a jointer tied to the 111-356 code, focus on these specifications:
Cutter width (commonly 6″, 8″, or 12″)
Cutterhead type—straight knives vs. helical inserts
Motor horsepower and drive type—direct or belt drive
Table construction—cast iron for durability, dovetail or parallelogram design
Fence style—adjustable, tilting, or heavy-duty square fence
Safety features—guard design, emergency switches
Dust collection—efficiency of chip removal
These features directly affect usability, precision, and long-term maintenance.
V. Operating Principles & Use Cases
Operating a jointer requires correct setup. The infeed table is lowered relative to the outfeed table, and knives are aligned to the outfeed height. Boards are passed smoothly across the cutterhead, producing a flat or square surface.
Common applications include:
Flattening one face before thickness planing
Straightening and squaring an edge for cabinet panels
Creating bevels or rabbets with fence adjustments
Preparing boards for precision joinery
By combining a jointer with a planer and table saw, woodworkers achieve square, stable stock for fine projects.
VI. Maintenance & Safety Considerations
Proper maintenance ensures safety and accuracy:
Knife or insert care: Sharpen or rotate knives regularly. Dull blades cause tear-out and strain the motor.
Table alignment: Verify the infeed and outfeed tables remain parallel.
Fence squareness: Check often for true 90-degree alignment.
Lubrication: Keep moving parts clean and oiled.
Dust collection: Use a vacuum or dust extractor to prevent buildup.
Safety practices include always using guards, feeding stock with push blocks, and never jointing pieces shorter than the manufacturer’s recommendation.
VII. Steps for Owners or Buyers of a 111-356 Jointer
If you encounter a jointer marked 111-356:
Document details—take photos of the nameplate, motor, and fence.
Measure dimensions—cutter width, table length, and motor power.
Compare features—match to known spec sheets or other models.
Check parts availability—confirm knives, belts, and guards can be sourced.
Test operation—listen for bearing noise, check finish quality, and verify alignment.
Following these steps helps you confirm whether 111-356 is a full jointer model or a component number.
VIII. Conclusion
The 111-356 jointer likely represents a jointer model or part identifier used in woodworking equipment catalogs. To make the most of it, evaluate the jointer as you would any other: check capacity, cutterhead style, motor, safety features, and parts availability. For owners, proper maintenance ensures accuracy and safety; for buyers, careful inspection prevents costly mistakes.
Whether you’re identifying, purchasing, or maintaining this machine, the principles outlined here will help you use the 111-356 jointer confidently and effectively.
