Planer and keytops

[JIMRPT@AOL.COM]

Et Al;
 just so everyone is playing from the same sheet of music...the original 
question was:

<< Has anyone used an *electric planer* for dealing with removing the top 
layer 
of 
keytops when replacing ivories with plastic?  Every reference I've found 
suggests using a router instead.  Just curious. >>

 An "electric planer" is a machine tool and, except for specialty 
applications, works in a top to bottom circular direction. A "rotary planer" 
is a specialty "router" bit that is used in a drill press and cuts in a side 
to side circular motion. Without regard to what trade name used on this type 
of "planer" it is a 'bit' and not a machine tool in and of itself.
 That having been said I have seen some fine work done with a "Wagner Power 
Planer" type bit/tool. Although for safety and accuracy reasons I myself 
prefer to use a Router/Jig setup for my keytop work.
 Tear out is not nearly the issue with a side to side cutting motion as it is 
on a front to back cutting motion as used in keytop work.
Jim Bryant (FL)