I'm new to woodworking and recently bought a Veritas no. 5 jack plane made of PM-V11 steel after struggling with a cheaper option. I'm really excited to get started and want to keep my new tool in good condition. Could anyone share some straightforward tips on maintaining its sharpness and preventing any damage? Should I be using any special products like wax? What kind of sharpening stones or plates should I consider? Also, how should I store my plane, and is there a need to oil it? Thanks!
3 Answers
Absolutely, keeping it oiled is crucial! I use a simple oil-soaked rag which works well. If you want something premium, camellia oil is great too. For storing it, make sure it goes in an enclosed wooden cabinet, especially if your shop isn’t controlled for humidity. When it comes to sharpening, I prefer water stones and an eclipse guide. It’s simple and effective; I’ve had good results with that.
Keeping your plane oiled is key to preventing rust. I typically use machine oil since it’s handy. The Veritas blade will be sharp right out of the box, but you'll want to keep it that way. For sharpening, I like the Norton tri-stone system and make sure to hone at a 25° angle until that wire edge forms. After sharpening, buff the edge at a steep angle with some polishing compound. Also, don't forget to lubricate the sole! Candles or canning wax work well, and it'll help with glide.
So, about the wax: it’s not absolutely necessary, but it can help keep rust at bay. Using some paste wax for surface protection and a harder wax for the sole will do wonders. You can also use a candle or beeswax to get started. As for sharpening, PM-V11 doesn't work well with oil stones, so go for water stones or diamond plates. If you're unsure about sharpening techniques, check out the book "Sharpen This" for a comprehensive guide. For storage, definitely wipe it down with a non-drying oil like machine or camellia oil after each use; that keeps rust away. And maybe apply some paste wax once or twice a year depending on your environment!
I agree with you on the oiling, but I’d caution against 3-in-1 oil; it can get gunky. Instead, go for sewing machine oil or camellia oil for best results. I’ve heard of people using an oiled pad to park their plane for rust prevention, but I found it just collects dust. And while beeswax can be sticky, it doesn't perform as well as plain candle wax for smoother surfaces.