Thread: hand planes

Matt,

I am more into using planes rather than restoring them however the most common bench plane is a No 4.

You should be able to pick one up fairly cheaply.

Check for pitted soles (undesirable) and damage/modifications around the mouth. Don't worry too much about the blade as they reasonably easy to replace or upgrade.

IMO a #6 is a good all round plane
Check that the sole is flat, both end to end, and side to side, and that the mouth hasn't been chipped away.A few rust pits can be sanded out, but deep pitting should be avoided.
All the components of a Stanley plane are available, so don't fuss too much about busted or rough handle and tote,so long as the metal bits appear sound and intact.
You will see reference to Japanning...that's just paint, and has NO effect on performance.You can choose your favourite colour if you like, though the purists will lynch me for saying so.
Have a look at Garret Hack,s "The Handplane Book" for more detailed info on which plane for what, and also how to fettle (or restore) your new purchase.
BEWARE!!! Plane collecting and restoration can become a serious addiction!!!

Originally Posted by mattym83

i am looking at buying some old stanley hand planes can anyone tell me what would be a good every use plane. and what things to look out for when buying a used one
and also what number plane are recommended for what jobs?
thanks matt

Block Plane : preferably a low angle type, with an adjustable mouth opening.

Ideal for end grain work.


Smoothing Plane : Suggest a size 4 1/2 .

Good weighted hand plane, suited for final dressing of timber.


Jointing Plane : Suggest a size 6.

Good length plane. Used for larger work, where straightening the edge of timber is required. Can also be used to flatten the main surface.


Things to look for :

Good clean sole (bottom) with no visible cracks, chipping, or pitting.

Wooden handle & front knob are in good condition.

Blade has plenty of usable length remaining.

Little, or no visible rusting.

Choose reliable brands, such as Stanley, or Record.

Try and get an older manufactured hand plane. Generally are of better quality than the modern ones.

If buying from Ebay, make sure the seller has near perfect feedback on previous sales.

Do your homework. Wait for the right hand plane to come up for sale. Don't rush into it.


Remember: A hand plane will do a quality job if kept sharp. Spend the time required to keep it that way.

Also learn to read the timbers grain direction prior to using the hand plane. Always work with the grain direction, and not against it. Wipe your hand across the timbers surface. You will soon pick up which way the grain is going.


planemaker.

Originally Posted by mattym83

i am looking at buying some old stanley hand planes can anyone tell me what would be a good every use plane. and what things to look out for when buying a used one
and also what number plane are recommended for what jobs?

Hi Matt

I think too many answers are going to confuse you, particularly now, since you are getting conflicting information.

You basically need just a few planes. I would start with ...

(1) a low angle block plane (used - Stanley #60 1/2; new - Veritas DX60). This is used for trimming edges, bevelling and smoothing endgrain.

(2) a jack plane for rough levelling (used - Stanley #5 1/2). You could even use this plane as a short jointer.

(3) a jointer plane for levelling long boards and for jointing edges. (used - Stanley #7; new - Veritas BU Jointer)

(4) smoother plane for finishing (used - Stanley #4; new - Veritas LA Smoother).

Get the block plane first. Get the jack next. Thirdly the smoother. Lastly the jointer.

As a complete beginner, avoid buying a plane that you need to restore. If you find something used, ask the forum for advice whether it is a decent purchase or not.

Regards from Perth

Derek

Hi Matt,

Really work out what sort of woodwork you want to do first.

Then get the plane best suited for that type of work, Fine Furniture uses different planes to say construction or Bush work. Boxes may use others.

But for all rounders I agree with the 1/2 060 Block Plane, Then my pick would be a #3 & #7.

Go the second hand way because if you choose not to continue then you won't loose so much on your original investment and could even make a few dollars to boot by reselling them.

Very confusing huh

Cheers

Steve

Hi Matt,
There is probably more advice than you can handle already so just look at some planesHome of fine old tools

As you are starting out get one that is in a usable condition. You will have to learn to sharpen however.
Regards
John

thanks for all the comments i am a little bit overwhelmed with all the information but at least now i can try to make an informed decision


Matt