re: Benchtop jointer

With any jointer the best result comes when the workpiece is well supported. Optimal are beds of unending length, to support anything, however fantasy related that may be. Of course the beds attached to the jointer need to have a set length, or cost would be prohibitive. That doesn't rule out using rollers, or supports in front of, and behind the tool to support your workpiece. Just make sure they are height adjustable, and set so the work if dead flat, or as close as you can keep it. IOW, don't fret bed length, just have some form of support handy to use. Now width is another subject, so like Ryan said, buy as big as you can afford.  I bought my space occupying grizz 8" with the long beds just one week before I ever heard of a Wahuda, or a Cutech. I thought damn, when I saw an 8" for a fraction of the cost, and also with a helix like head. If I had known, I believe I would have gone with a benchie.