Thread: Stanley #6 plane

Although the schools of thought seem to differ,there is a common line through all the threads as to the bevel angle.In some of the threads, "tuning" the plane is used.Could someone enlighten me please? On a different subject,I have a couple of old oil stones.While i was sharpening plane blades with my jig i noticed that both sides of the blade were sharpened rather well,but the middle of the blade required more.This has led me to believe that the stone is worn in the centre.Is this a concern?do i chuck 'em,square them (how)? or continue on regardless.Regards................AL

Originally Posted by 46150

This has led me to believe that the stone is worn in the centre.Is this a concern?do i chuck 'em,square them (how)? or continue on regardless.Regards................AL

You should be able to use a straight edge to check if the stone is unevenly worn. You can either flatten it or purchase a new stone unless you want your plane blade to have the shape of your worn stone.

Flattening stones is possible but time consuming with oil stones. If they are cheapies - buy a new one.

There is tons of information on this Forum about flattening and types of sharpening stones.

Tuning of a plane is a vast topic but it involves properly grinding the blade, flattening the back of the blade, making the sole flat, making the sides 90 degrees to the sole, ensuring the frog is properly and securely connected to the body of the plane to avoid vibration and to properly support the blade, making sure the chipbreaker connects properly to the blade, is smooth and adjusted, making sure the mouth opening is adequate but not too large, making sure the depth adjuster is smooth and doesn't have too much backlash, the tote and knob are secure and not loose .....

You can then make some cosmetic improvements which may not improve the performance but makes it look like new such as paint etc.

There are books on the topic of tuning planes as well as information on this Board. Depending on your skills, expectations and the condition of the plane will determine the amount of tuning required.

If you are a beginner, and the plane is in good condition then shapening the blade, adjusting the chip breaker and making sure the mouth opening is OK will get you well and truly down the path of satisfying planing.

There is another important term you need to become familiar with - Dark Side.

That is a term used for people who appreciate, favour and use hand tools. It sounds like you are beginning down the slippery slope of becoming a Dark Sider. That is good for people like me, but some of the power tool people might take a friendly swipe at you - all good fun.

Thanks for that post Mr borer......very informative,and yes,it doesn't get much better than the smell of shavings from a sharp blade.BTY its getting murky here!!

For a no-nonsense practical and informative guide, check out and then order this. You may not need any other reference...

http://www.leevalley.com/wood/page.a...096,46109&ap=2

Thanks Dennis,Looks the goods........AL