Can I Use Lie-Nielsen or Veritas Blades in My WoodRiver Plane?

2 July 2025 4 answers
Asked by CraftyBeaver92
I recently picked up a WoodRiver 4 plane on sale as my first one, and while I've managed to sharpen it, I've noticed it's not performing as well as some of my other planes. After trying a Lie-Nielsen plane, I was amazed at how much better it worked, especially since the adjustments were so much tighter. Despite putting in the effort to sharpen my WoodRiver, even my old Stanley 5 seems to be smoother. I'm wondering if a Lie-Nielsen or Veritas blade would fit in my WoodRiver plane, as I'm looking for ways to make it more usable. Otherwise, I'm considering splurging on a new Lie-Nielsen, but my wallet definitely wouldn't like that!

Answers

ToolTimeTina
If you're thinking about other options, Hock makes some fantastic plane knives and chip breakers. They're thicker and top notch! I have them on my Stanley and Bailey planes, and they've improved performance.
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WoodWhisperer88
I swapped a Hock iron into my WoodRiver 4 and it works like a charm! Just a heads up, you'll need to make some adjustments to the frog to fit it properly.
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PlaningGuru101
I'd say a Lie-Nielsen blade should fit your WoodRiver fine. The two are pretty similar, but Veritas blades are a bit different since they use Norris adjusters and come with round holes. Just make sure to get the right width! Also, be aware that Lie-Nielsen blades are often thicker than Stanley's, which can affect the fit. Their chipbreaker is definitely a game changer.

SharpEdge27: Veritas also makes blades and chip breakers in PMV11 steel for standard style planes like Stanley's. I have one in my Bailey style #7 and it works great!

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DIYFanatic
I got a Veritas iron in my Wood River #3, and it fits perfectly. Just a note, though—I keep the mouth tight on that plane. Not sure if you'd be able to adjust it fully open without issues.
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