<HTML>One of the reasons my neighbor's new DeWalt causes less snipe is because it has a positive lock on the height adjusting posts, where the old Ryobi he sold me just relies on the lead screw threads.  However all the better quality planers now have this feature. Another method of reducing, or essentially eliminating snipe is to make a sturdy sled to support the wood being planed.  It should be straight, flat and considerably longer than the wood to be planed.  A length of melamine covered MDF shelving fits the bill precisely.  The wood to be planed can be stuck down with carpet tape so it doesn't slip. I'd do some experimenting with the planer you have.  The lifting at the beginning and end of cut only reduces the problem somewhat for me, but remember, my planer is an old Ryobi that's had thousands of board feet of wear and tear.  But by either using a sled or by feeding scrap ahead and behind the good wood piece gives me acceptable planing.</HTML>