Stanley Block Plane Identification?

**STAR** · 19th May 2010, 09:22 PM

A friend has asked me if I could recondition an old rusty block plane that she was given from a family member.

Now, I am not that experienced with the history and evolution of the tool industry but at least like to improve my knowledge without being to anal about it.

The block plane was nothing like I had seen before, I cannot post a photo of it now, but will do so next week if need be.

It was due to go for an electrolysis bath and when I took the blade out and gave it a quick soaking with vinegar ( Somebody had borrowed my battery charger, so I had to make do with something until I got it back )

The block plane was a Stanley, and the blade had these slots in it that moved like a ratchet. It also had the words " Ward Material " on it. The plane has an adjustable mouth and is very heavy.

It also had several features regarding the mouth adjustment clip which was unusal as well as the adjustmet for the slotted blade.

Anybody able to offer any suggestions, when I have cleaned it all up I will post some pictures as it is impossible for me to do so now.

Peter

**Scribbly Gum** · 19th May 2010, 09:41 PM

It will certainly be interesting to see a picture.
Are you sure that it didn't say Wards Master?
These were made by Stanley
SG

**STAR** · 19th May 2010, 10:24 PM

Originally Posted by Scribbly Gum

It will certainly be interesting to see a picture.
Are you sure that it didn't say Wards Master?
These were made by Stanley
SG

--------------------------

Thanks for the reply Scribbly. I will check in the morning. The plane and blade needs a good clean up, but is in reasonably good condition, at least as a user.

I will clean the writing on the blade a bit better, my eyes might need retesting.

Peter

**Scribbly Gum** · 19th May 2010, 11:55 PM

If it is a Wards Master then these are usually Stanleys made for Montgomery Ward, and are quite good planes.
I have a Wards Master Block plane that is indistinguishable from the Stanley.
It will be interesting to see.
SG

**STAR** · 20th May 2010, 08:05 PM

Scribbly,

I have rechecked the cutter blade and you are correct. After cleaning it a bit better it does apppear to read Wards Master.

With the information you have given me I have researched further and from photographs it appears to be a Stanley 9 1/2.

The blade had a bevel on it and after regrinding and then polishing on my water stones it came up a treat. Still got some work to do on the sole as it is far from flat.

The adjustable mouth looks to be seized but hopefully after electrolysis ( when I get my battery charger back ) it will free up.

A quick play with it in its unfinished state really impressed me as it zoomed over some tough wood without a problem.

Now, possibly unrelated question but when and what era were the Sweetheart block planes around.

Peter

**Scribbly Gum** · 20th May 2010, 08:10 PM

Well the SW era spanned a few models of Stanley planes, but 1919-1932 would pretty much cover it.
The golden years of Stanley!
SG

**JimDavey** · 20th May 2010, 10:26 PM

Originally Posted by Scribbly Gum

1919-1932 - clip - the golden years of Stanley!
SG

I would include the teens and the later 00's in the Golden Years. Although I like the "three-finger" grip of the pre 1905 Totes (or 1907)

Take care and Stay Sharp,
Jim

**Vann** · 20th May 2010, 10:53 PM

Originally Posted by Scribbly Gum

Well the SW era spanned a few models of Stanley planes, but 1919-1932 would pretty much cover it.

And then the second Sweetheart era started in 2009....

Hat, coat, and running for the door.....

Cheers, Vann.

Ironic really, as the latest SW planes aren't very sweet and the company's got no heart.

**skippy** · 22nd May 2010, 10:19 PM

Nice one

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