I'm looking to buy my first hand plane for a project where I've made a big table. I've done a lot of learning through this process, but now I need to fix some areas, and I believe a hand plane will be the best tool for the job. I've read mixed reviews about brands like Wood River and other store brands. Vintage Stanley planes seem to be highly regarded, but I can only find them on eBay. What should I be considering when purchasing a hand plane? Besides choosing the right size, what are the characteristics of a good or bad hand plane? And if I go for a used one, what should I watch out for? Are replacement blades easy to find? I want to avoid wasting my money on the wrong tool!
3 Answers
If you've got the budget, investing in a high-quality hand plane from brands like Veritas or Lie-Nielsen is definitely worth it. These are pricier, around $300-500, but they offer excellent performance and you won't have to worry about the quality as much. That said, Wood River planes are also decent if you're looking for affordability and can tune it up yourself. And don’t forget, you'll need a solid sharpening system—sharp blades make all the difference!
Hand planes can be tricky for beginners; they require a bit of skill to use effectively. But don't let that discourage you! If you've managed to successfully use a smaller plane before, you should be able to learn the ropes with a proper one. Just remember, a little practice and knowledge about wood grain and sharpening techniques will go a long way! You might also want to check out some YouTube channels like Rob Cosman and Rex Kruger for tips on using planes.
When you're shopping for a hand plane, especially used ones, keep an eye out for cracks in the handles and soles, and avoid planes with deep rust, especially on the frog. A No. 4 for smoothing is a great start, and a No. 5 can help with larger material removal. A No. 7 jointer is a nice bonus if you can find one! Paul Sellers has some solid articles and videos about finding and restoring planes too.