What machines are you guys using for squaring up your exotic wood riser blanks. I was thinking about getting a drum sander to assist me with this process.

I would like to get your guys techniques and machine preferences.

I use my edge sander and my drum sander.
Edge sander estabilishes a flat surface first then I can use the drum sander to do the 'other' face and dimension it.

Same as Mike. Justin , you will love a drum sander.

Jointer to square up two sides and then planer to make the other side parallel and to cut it down to the right thickness.

Jointer then planner then drum sander to finish

QuoteOriginally posted by jsweka:
Jointer to square up two sides and then planer to make the other side parallel and to cut it down to the right thickness.

X2! If you buy a jointer and, or a planer, get one with a spiral cutter head. It's quieter than straight knives, cuts clean in swirly grain, super easy to set up and the carbide inserts last forever.
Dave.

And don't forget! The guy with the most ( and biggest ) tools at the end wins!!!      
Dave.

Jaison, you WILL love a thickness sander!  :D

hahaha who the heck is Jaison????

Thanks guys for some of the advice here. I need to make some purchases soon so I can really get back into building but making sure that the material is absolutely square is more crucial then ever now.

I am thinking about the Grizzly 12 inch drum sander. I think that is more than what I would need.

Nope it will be perfect, jaison.  LOL

Jaison (lol), I have the Grizzly and you will not be disappointed.  Its a great machine and very easy to use.  Make sure you have a good dust collection system.  It will cloud up your shop quick!