I'm really interested in using shooting boards, and while I'd love to get my hands on the Veritas shooting plane, it's a bit out of my budget. What other plane options do you all recommend for this purpose?
5 Answers
If you’re left-handed like me, a left-handed shooting plane would be ideal! I got a Veritas and it works great, but I found the left-handed one felt a bit weird at first. I'd stick with my bevel up if I could.
I've had great results using a bevel-up jack for years before I splurged on a shooting plane. It’s functional enough, and while the shooting plane is definitely easier to use ergonomically, the jack has a low-angle blade that works just fine. Just don’t be too impulsive like I was at the store!
Thanks for the tip!
You could always wait for a Veritas seconds sale! I managed to grab their shooting plane at 25% off during a sale, and honestly, it’s been amazing compared to regular planes I used before. If you’re patient, it’s so worth the wait.
Honestly, virtually any bench plane can do the job! A No. 5 or No. 7 are popular choices, but for budget options, I’d suggest going with a No. 6. It's cheaper than the 7 and has more mass. Don’t waste your cash on a 5 1/2 just for shooting, it doesn’t provide enough bang for your buck.
I use a No. 6 too. It’s wider than a No. 5 and shorter than a No. 7, which makes it great for this purpose.
For me, I just use my No. 4 hand plane unless the pieces are too big. Then I just plane them freehand! It’s all about what works for you.
What angle did you set your primary bevel for that shooting plane? Did you find it beneficial to have a secondary bevel?