Hey everyone! I'm using an Axminster Rider #7 jointer plane, but I'm struggling to get the boards to meet perfectly across their full length. I've been clamping the boards in my vice side by side and planing them together. While the edge closest to me comes out great, the far end starts to open up about 3 inches in. It feels like the plane is taking off more material at that end. I've checked the sole for flatness and spent time lapping it to ensure it's flat at the toe, heel, and just in front of the blade. Any tips or advice would be much appreciated! Thanks!
2 Answers
I've had similar issues, and I think it really helps to adjust how you apply pressure during the stroke. You should start with more pressure at the front, maintain even pressure in the middle, and then apply more pressure toward the end of the cut. It's like you're trying to scoop out the middle of the board, which can help keep everything even. Also, make sure not to push all the way to the end if you're trying to close a gap; stop just before the end and work to flatten it progressively.
This is a pretty common issue! It sounds like you might be applying too much pressure on the knob of your plane at the far end. When planing, focus on keeping your pressure at the front of the plane until the entire length is engaged with the board. Once it’s stable, push it through horizontally without pressing down too hard on the knob. With a sharp, well-tuned plane, you can almost let go of the knob after the cut starts. It's really about getting that registration right at the beginning!
Totally agree! And just a tip, when trying to make sure your edges are meeting nicely, use a straightedge after you’ve planed. This way, you can see exactly where you need to make adjustments for a perfect fit.