I've recently sold my Veritas LAJ and bevel up smoother, and I'm on the hunt for my next plane. Currently, I own a vintage #6, a Veritas 5 1/4, and a vintage #4. While my #4 produces decent shavings, it's quite worn out, and I'm growing tired of the issues it brings. I'm thinking about getting another Veritas, maybe a #4 or #4 1/2, but I'm curious if anyone has experience with both the custom and standard versions. Is the custom really worth the extra cost? I love my 5 1/4 but wish it had the moveable mouth feature like the LAJ. Also, what's the general consensus on choosing between the #4 and #4 1/2 for a smoother? Thanks for any insights!
3 Answers
The custom version has some nice features like a full-hand grip, adjustable mouth, and a Norris adjuster, but honestly, a lot of people find those first and last features not super useful. The adjustable mouth isn't a game changer for a smoother. If I were you, I'd stick with the standard model.
I've worked with a couple of vintage #4s that were pretty rough but could take really fine shavings once I got them sharpened up. What issues are you having with your vintage #4? Do you know who made it? If you could share some pictures, especially of the frog and lateral adjuster, that might help us figure out what's going on!
It's an old Bailey, likely a factory second or something. The lateral adjustment is way off, and the sole is really not flat. Honestly, with my limited woodworking time, I just don't want to mess with restoring tools right now!
I can't speak on the standard version, but I did buy a #4 custom because honestly, the standard just didn't do it for me looks-wise. I've been really happy with my choice! The custom has a really nice feel to it, so if aesthetics are important to you, it might be worth it just for that reason.
I actually prefer the Norris adjuster myself; I hate the play in the Bailey pattern! But I guess everyone has their preferences.