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Hand Planes

Warner ProGrip 6-in-1 Paint Scraper

Warner ProGrip 6-in-1 Paint Scraper

M3Tools
Stanley 12-137

Stanley 12-137

No. 62 Sweetheart Low Angle Jack Plane


Woodworking is an age-old craft that requires patience, skill, and the right tools. One such indispensable tool is the manual hand plane. Whether you're a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, a high-quality hand plane is a must-have in your toolkit. In this review, we will discuss the top hand planes of 2023 and provide you with a detailed buyer's guide to help you make an informed decision.

Top 5 Hand Planes of 2023:

1. Lie-Nielsen No. 62 Low Angle Jack Plane

Lie-Nielsen No. 62 Low Angle Jack Plane

Lie-Nielsen is a renowned name in the woodworking industry, and their No. 62 Low Angle Jack Plane is a testament to their commitment to quality and precision. This versatile plane is designed for both rough work and fine smoothing, making it an excellent all-around performer. With a bed angle of 12 degrees and an adjustable mouth, you can customize the tool according to your needs.

The No. 62 features a high-quality A2 steel blade, precision-machined ductile iron body, and a comfortable cherry wood handle and knob. The iron is mounted on a bevel, making it perfect for end grain and difficult grain patterns. The plane is 14 inches long and weighs 4.5 pounds, offering excellent balance and control.

Pros:

  • Versatile and capable of performing a wide range of tasks, from rough work to finishing
  • Bevel-up blade design creates a low cutting angle, which makes it ideal for end grain work and difficult woods
  • Adjustable mouth allows you to fine-tune the amount of material being removed
  • Well-balanced and comfortable to use, with a smooth action and excellent control
  • Blade is sharp and holds an edge well

Cons:

  • Expensive compared to many other low angle jack planes on the market
  • May be too heavy for some users, particularly those with smaller hands
  • Some users may prefer a bevel-down blade design for certain tasks

2. Veritas Bevel-Up Smoothing Plane

Veritas Bevel-Up Smoothing Plane

The Veritas Bevel-Up Smoothing Plane is another top-of-the-line option for woodworkers seeking a premium hand plane. Designed and manufactured by Lee Valley Tools, this plane boasts an adjustable mouth, a 12-degree bed angle, and a Norris-style adjuster for precise depth and lateral adjustment.

The plane's body is made from stress-relieved ductile iron and features a unique set screw, which helps maintain the blade's alignment even after multiple sharpening sessions. The A2 steel blade is 2-1/4 inches wide and 1/8-inch thick, providing excellent edge retention and minimal chatter. The bubinga handles add a touch of elegance and comfort to this high-performance plane.

Pros:

  • Versatile and capable of performing a wide range of tasks, from rough work to finishing
  • Adjustable mouth allows you to fine-tune the amount of material being removed
  • Well-balanced and comfortable to use, with a smooth action and excellent control
  • Blade is made from high-quality A2 tool steel and is capable of holding a sharp edge for a long time
  • Capable of producing exceptionally smooth and flat surfaces
  • Made from high-quality materials, with excellent fit and finish

Cons:

  • Expensive compared to many other smoothing planes on the market
  • May be too heavy for some users, particularly those with smaller hands
  • Blade adjustment requires a separate tool, which can be inconvenient

3. Stanley No. 4 Sweetheart Smoothing Bench Plane

Stanley No. 4 Sweetheart Smoothing Bench Plane

The Stanley No. 4 Sweetheart is a classic hand plane that has been a favorite among woodworkers for generations. This updated version retains the timeless design and features a 2-inch wide A2 steel blade, a durable ductile iron body, and an adjustable frog for precise depth control.

The Sweetheart's cherry wood handles provide an ergonomic grip, while the one-piece base and frog ensure accuracy and stability during use. The plane is 10 inches long and weighs 4.02 pounds, making it an excellent choice for general-purpose smoothing.

Pros:

  • Affordable compared to many other smoothing planes on the market
  • Lightweight and easy to handle for most users
  • Blade is made from high-carbon steel and is capable of holding a sharp edge with proper maintenance
  • Capable of producing smooth surfaces with minimal effort
  • Comes with a limited lifetime warranty
  • Sturdy construction with a durable cast iron body and comfortable rosewood handle
  • Widely available at many woodworking and hardware stores

Cons:

  • May require more effort to use compared to more expensive smoothing planes, particularly when working with difficult woods or in challenging grain conditions
  • Blade may require more frequent sharpening compared to more expensive smoothing planes

4. WoodRiver No. 5 Bench Plane

WoodRiver No. 5 Bench Plane

The WoodRiver No. 5 Bench Plane is a versatile workhorse that is perfect for both rough work and fine finishing. With a 14-inch long body and a 2-inch wide high-carbon steel blade, this plane is designed for efficient stock removal and precise smoothing.

The plane's body is made from ductile iron and features an adjustable frog for a customized setup. The WoodRiver No. 5 also includes a dual adjusting mechanism for precise blade alignment and depth control. The hardwood handles provide a comfortable grip and a classic appeal.

Pros:

  • Affordable compared to many other bench planes on the market
  • Capable of producing smooth surfaces with minimal effort
  • Blade is made from high-quality A2 tool steel and is capable of holding a sharp edge for a long time
  • Comfortable and ergonomic handle design
  • Comes with a limited lifetime warranty
  • Sturdy construction with a durable cast iron body and frog
  • Widely available at many woodworking and hardware stores

Cons:

  • May require some tuning and adjustment out of the box to achieve optimal performance
  • Blade may require more frequent sharpening compared to more expensive bench planes

5. Clifton No. 7 Jointer Plane

Clifton No. 7 Jointer Plane

The Clifton No. 7 Jointer Plane is a reliable option for professionals and hobbyists alike. This 22-inch long plane is designed for flattening and straightening long edges and surfaces. It features a 2-3/8-inch wide high-carbon steel blade and a precision-machined grey iron body.

The Clifton No. 7 comes with a fully adjustable frog, allowing for precise depth and lateral control. The rear handle and front knob are made from bubinga, providing a comfortable grip and an attractive finish.

Pros:

  • Capable of producing exceptionally flat and smooth surfaces, making it ideal for jointing and flattening large workpieces
  • Blade is made from high-quality A2 tool steel and is capable of holding a sharp edge for a long time
  • Well-balanced and comfortable to use, with a smooth action and excellent control
  • Adjustable mouth allows you to fine-tune the amount of material being removed
  • Sturdy construction with a durable cast iron body and rosewood handle
  • Comes with a limited lifetime warranty
  • Made in England with high-quality materials and workmanship

Cons:

  • Expensive compared to many other jointer planes on the market
  • Heavy and may be difficult to handle for some users, particularly those with smaller hands

Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Hand Plane

When choosing a hand planer, consider the following factors to ensure you select the right tool for your needs:

  • Size and Purpose: Hand planes come in various sizes and styles, each designed for specific woodworking tasks. Determine your needs and choose the right size and type of plane accordingly. For general-purpose use, a No. 4 or No. 5 bench plane is a versatile option.
  • Blade Material: High-carbon steel and A2 steel are popular choices for hand plane blades. High-carbon steel is easier to sharpen but may lose its edge faster, while A2 steel offers better edge retention but can be more challenging to sharpen.
  • Body Material: Ductile iron and grey iron are common materials for hand plane bodies. Ductile iron is more durable and less prone to cracking, while grey iron is more affordable.
  • Adjustability: Look for planes with adjustable frogs and mouth openings, as they offer greater versatility and precision. Norris-style adjusters provide fine control over blade depth and lateral alignment.
  • Handle Material and Ergonomics: Hand plane handles are often made from hardwood or dense tropical woods like bubinga. Ensure that the handles are comfortable to grip and that the plane's overall design is ergonomic, allowing for extended use without strain.
  • Brand Reputation: Choose a hand plane from a reputable brand, as they are more likely to offer high-quality products, customer support, and replacement parts if needed.
  • Price: While premium hand planes can be expensive, they often provide better performance and durability. However, more affordable options may suffice for occasional use or hobbyists on a tight budget.

Conclusion

The best manual hand plane for you will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. The Lie-Nielsen No. 62 Low Angle Jack Plane, Veritas Bevel-Up Smoothing Plane, Stanley No. 4 Sweetheart Smoothing Bench Plane, WoodRiver No. 5 Bench Plane, and Clifton No. 7 Jointer Plane are all excellent choices that cater to a wide range of woodworking tasks. By considering factors such as size, purpose, blade material, body material, adjustability, handle ergonomics, brand reputation, and price, you can confidently select the perfect hand plane for your woodworking endeavors.