Best Hand Planes Unveiled: A Complete Guide to Types and History
Table of Contents
Best Hand Planes Unveiled: A Complete Guide to Types and History
Introduction to Hand Planes:
When it comes to woodworking, the best hand planes are the unsung heroes, essential for achieving smooth finishes, accurate joints, and beautiful craftsmanship. From the classic jack plane to the precision-focused smoothing plane, understanding the types of hand planes and their specific uses can transform your projects. In "Best Hand Planes Unveiled: A Complete Guide to Types and History", we’ll walk you through the most popular hand planes, provide expert tips on choosing the right one for your tasks, and explore the rich history that has shaped these indispensable tools. Whether you're a seasoned woodworker or just starting, this comprehensive guide will help you understand which hand planes are best for your needs and how to use them like a pro. Let’s get started!
Hand planes come in many types, each with its own specific use, design, and characteristics. Below is a detailed description of the most common and essential types of planes used in woodworking, their structure, their purpose, and how they contribute to the craft.
1. Jack Plane: The Workhorse
Description:
The jack plane is often considered the most versatile of all hand planes. It typically measures around 12–15 inches long, with a wide blade that allows it to take deep, aggressive cuts. The jack plane's name stems from the phrase “jack of all trades,” as it can handle a variety of tasks, from rough stock removal to preliminary smoothing. The long, flat sole helps with flattening large surfaces, while its blade (usually set with a moderate camber or curve) allows it to remove material quickly.
History:
The jack plane is one of the oldest and most versatile planes in the history of woodworking. It dates back to the 19th century, and its name likely derives from the term "jack of all trades," reflecting its broad range of uses. The jack plane was first used in Europe during the early Industrial Revolution when hand tools started to become more standardized. As woodworking shops grew and mass production increased, the jack plane became indispensable for carpenters and cabinetmakers.
Initially, these planes were made from hardwoods such as beech or maple, but over time, manufacturers like Stanley began producing jack planes in cast iron, which made them more durable and easier to manufacture. The Stanley No. 5, introduced in 1869, is one of the most iconic jack planes and has remained a staple in woodworking ever since.
Evolution:
19th Century: The jack plane was a primary tool for general woodworking tasks, including rough shaping and surface leveling.
Modern Day: Today, it remains a go-to plane for many woodworkers, thanks to its ability to handle rough wood, flatten surfaces, and prepare stock for finer work.
Common Uses:
Flattening rough, uneven boards.
Preparing wood for final planing with finer planes.
Reducing the thickness of boards.
Design Features:
Length: 12–15 inches (300–400mm).
Blade Width: 2–2 ⅜ inches.
Blade Camber: Slight curve for rapid stock removal.
Materials: Typically made of cast iron or ductile iron; wood versions are less common but still used.
Notable Examples:
The classic jack plane used by generations of woodworkers.
A premium tool with a bronze cap and high-quality steel.
2. Smoothing Plane: The Finisher
Description:
The smoothing plane is shorter than the jack plane, typically measuring around 9–10 inches in length, which makes it ideal for final surfacing. The smoothing plane is used after the jack and jointer planes to leave a glass-smooth finish on the wood surface. Its shorter length allows it to follow the natural undulations of the wood, and it is usually set to take very fine shavings, leaving the wood smooth enough to be finish-ready without the need for sanding.
History:
The smoothing plane emerged in the 18th century as woodworkers began focusing more on surface finishes. Prior to its development, wood surfaces were often left rough, with only rudimentary smoothing methods. As furniture design became more intricate and polished, the need for smoother, more refined finishes became evident. The smoothing plane was designed to achieve a near-glassy finish by taking thin shavings and leaving the wood with an impeccable surface.
The early versions of smoothing planes were small, finely tuned tools that could be controlled with precision. The Stanley No. 4 smoothing plane, introduced in the mid-19th century, became the standard for fine finish work and is still popular with woodworkers today.
Evolution:
18th Century: Smoothing planes were designed for fine finishes after initial shaping and jointing.
19th Century: The Stanley No. 4 became the go-to smoothing plane due to its compact size and ability to create ultra-smooth surfaces.
Modern Day: Today’s smoothing planes are still used by craftsmen who specialize in furniture and cabinetry.
Common Uses:
Final preparation of wood surfaces for finishing (varnish, stain, or oil).
Smoothing out minor imperfections left after the jack or jointer plane.
Design Features:
Length: 9–10 inches (230–255mm).
Blade Width: 2–2 ⅜ inches.
Blade Camber: Very slight or none, for ultra-fine smoothing cuts.
Materials: Cast iron, with some modern versions using brass fittings for precision.
Notable Examples:
Stanley No. 4 SweetHeart™ Smoothing Bench Plane: A highly popular smoothing plane, widely regarded as the go-to plane for finishing work.
Veritas #4 Smooth Plane: Known for its modern design and adjustability, a favorite for detailed work.
3. Jointer Plane: The Straight Shooter
Description:
The jointer plane is one of the longest planes, often measuring 22–24 inches, making it ideal for flattening long boards and ensuring straight edges. It’s commonly used for jointing the edges of boards that will be glued together, like for a tabletop, where it’s crucial that the edges are perfectly straight. The jointer plane’s long sole helps it bridge high and low spots, making it effective at creating perfectly straight edges and flattening surfaces over a large area.
History:
The jointer plane was developed in the early 1700s to address the need for a tool that could help create long, flat surfaces for joining boards. The primary task of the jointer plane is to flatten and straighten edges, particularly when preparing stock for joinery, such as in the construction of large tables, doors, or other flat-surfaced furniture. Early jointer planes were often quite large to handle the scale of the work, with planes reaching lengths of 22 inches or more.
By the late 19th century, Stanley introduced the No. 7 jointer plane, which became the standard for achieving straight edges. This plane became highly regarded in the woodworking community due to its long, flat sole, which provided exceptional control and precision for edge jointing.
Evolution:
18th Century: Jointer planes were used to prepare long, flat edges for joinery.
19th Century: The Stanley No. 7 jointer plane became the most popular model, known for its precision and durability.
Modern Day: Today, the jointer plane remains essential for tasks requiring perfectly straight edges.
Common Uses:
Flattening the surface of long boards.
Jointing board edges for gluing.
Design Features:
Length: 22–24 inches (560–610mm).
Blade Width: 2–2 ⅜ inches.
Blade Camber: Often minimal or slightly cambered for flattening surfaces.
Materials: Cast iron or ductile iron for stability and durability.
Notable Examples:
STANLEY® BAILEY® Jointer Bench Plane No. 7: A traditional jointer plane used by professional and amateur woodworkers alike.
Lie-Nielsen No. 7 Jointer Plane: High-end craftsmanship with a precise sole and blade for perfect edges.
4. Block Plane: The Mighty Mini
Description:
The block plane is compact and fits comfortably in one hand, typically 6–7 inches in length. It is most often used for trimming and smoothing end grain, chamfering edges, or cleaning up small areas. Block planes have a low-angle blade (typically 12–15 degrees) that’s set bevel-up, which allows it to slice cleanly through tough end grain or tricky wood fibers. The small size makes it ideal for detailed work that larger planes would struggle to accomplish.
History:
The block plane has its roots in the mid-19th century and was originally designed as a small, portable tool for trimming end grain and small pieces of wood. It was a favorite tool among shipbuilders, who needed precision in tight spaces. The block plane was also useful in trimming small edges, chamfering, and light planing tasks that required more finesse than the larger planes.
The Stanley No. 9 block plane, introduced in the late 19th century, became an industry standard. It was known for its ease of use, compact size, and ability to work well on end grain. The block plane has remained one of the most versatile tools in a woodworker's arsenal.
Evolution:
Mid-19th Century: The block plane was created as a smaller alternative to larger planes for trimming and fine-tuning wood.
Late 19th Century: The Stanley No. 9 became the go-to block plane for precision work.
Modern Day: Block planes continue to be a favorite for detail work, and modern versions, like those from Lie-Nielsen and Veritas, provide improved control and accuracy.
Common Uses:
Trimming end grain (e.g., cleaning up tenon shoulders).
Chamfering edges.
Small, detailed smoothing tasks.
Design Features:
Length: 6–7 inches (150–180mm).
Blade Width: 1 ⅝–1 ¾ inches.
Blade Angle: Low-angle (12–15 degrees), bevel-up configuration.
Materials: Cast iron or brass for durability.
Notable Examples:
Stanley No. 60-1/2 SweetHeart™ Low Angle Block Plane: A classic tool for end grain work.
Veritas Low-Angle Block Plane: Known for its modern, ergonomic design and adjustability.
5. Rabbet Plane: The Joinery Expert
Description:
The rabbet plane (also called a rebate plane) is designed specifically for cutting rabbets (or rebates), which are grooves or steps along the edge of a board. Unlike other planes, the blade extends the full width of the body, allowing it to cut all the way into corners. This makes the rabbet plane perfect for joinery tasks like fitting panels or constructing frames. Some models also include adjustable fences for added precision.
History:
The rabbet plane was developed in the 18th century as a specialized tool for cutting rabbets (recessed grooves) into wood. These grooves are essential for joinery, such as when making dado joints or fitting components together. The rabbet plane’s design includes a side-mounted blade, which allows the woodworker to easily cut along the edge of a board without having to worry about damaging the sides.
Historically, rabbets were cut using chisels or other rudimentary tools, but the rabbet plane revolutionized this by providing a faster, more efficient way to make clean cuts. The Stanley No. 78, introduced in the late 19th century, became a widely recognized model for rabbet planes.
Evolution:
18th Century: Rabbet planes were developed as an essential tool for joinery.
19th Century: Stanley introduced the No. 78 rabbet plane, which improved both precision and ease of use.
Modern Day: Rabbet planes continue to be used for detailed joinery work, and modern versions often include features like adjustable fences for greater control.
Common Uses:
Cutting rabbets for joinery (e.g., window frames, door panels).
Trimming and fine-tuning joints.
Design Features:
Length: Varies, usually 8–10 inches.
Blade Width: Full width of the plane’s body.
Blade Configuration: Often comes with a skewed blade for cleaner cuts.
Materials: Cast iron, with some models featuring adjustable fences.
Notable Examples:
STANLEY® Duplex Rebate Plane (No. 78): A classic model used for rabbeting and joinery.
Veritas Detail Rabbet Plane: Known for its precision and versatility.
6. Router Plane: The Depth Master
Description:
The router plane is a specialized tool for creating precise grooves, dadoes, and recesses. It features a flat, open base with a vertically mounted blade that can be adjusted for depth. This plane excels at cleaning out and leveling the bottoms of joints, such as mortises or grooves, ensuring a consistent depth across the surface. It’s particularly useful for fine joinery and inlay work.
History:
The router plane has its origins in the late 18th century and was initially designed to help create consistent depth in grooves and dados. Unlike other planes, the router plane is unique because it allows for precise depth control, thanks to its depth stop feature. Early router planes were hand-crafted tools that required significant skill to use, but over time, their design was standardized, and their precision made them indispensable for detailed woodworking tasks.
The Stanley No. 71 router plane, introduced in the late 19th century, became the most recognized and widely used model. The router plane’s ability to refine grooves and dados made it essential in cabinetry and other fine woodwork.
Evolution:
Late 18th Century: The router plane was developed for precise control over the depth of cuts.
19th Century: The Stanley No. 71 router plane was introduced and became the industry standard.
Modern Day: The router plane is still an essential tool for cabinetmakers, woodworkers, and anyone working with fine detail on wood surfaces.
Common Uses:
Leveling the bottom of dadoes and grooves.
Trimming tenons to a precise thickness.
Inlay work for decorative purposes.
Design Features:
Length: Typically 8–10 inches.
Blade Configuration: Vertically mounted, adjustable for depth.
Base: Flat with open sides for visibility and control.
Materials: Cast iron or brass for durability and stability.
Notable Examples:
Lie-Nielsen Large Router Plane: Loosely based on the Stanley No. 71, the Large Router Planes feature an improved Brass depth stop and Stainless Steel blade adjuster for precise control of cutting depth.
Veritas Large Router Plane: Offers modern features like precision depth adjustment.
7. Scraper Plane: The Sandpaper Slayer
Description:
The scraper plane is designed to handle difficult grain patterns and smooth wood surfaces without the need for sanding. It works by scraping thin shavings off the wood, rather than cutting, making it ideal for woods with tricky grain like curly maple or birdseye. It’s often used as a finishing tool to remove surface imperfections, tear-out, or chatter marks from previous planing steps.
History:
The scraper plane was introduced in the 19th century as a response to the limitations of sanding. Woodworkers often had to rely on sanding to smooth out rough surfaces, but it was a time-consuming process that often left behind imperfections. The scraper plane, with its sharp, angled blade, revolutionized the process by allowing for more control and less work.
The scraper plane became widely popular in the late 19th century, particularly in fine woodworking shops where surfaces needed to be flawlessly smooth. Today, the scraper plane is still used to eliminate tear-out and imperfections in wood before finishing.
Evolution:
19th Century: The scraper plane was developed to save time and provide a cleaner alternative to sanding.
Modern Day: The scraper plane continues to be a critical tool for smoothing wood surfaces in fine woodworking.
Common Uses:
Smoothing highly figured or difficult grain.
Removing tear-out or surface imperfections.
Design Features:
Length: Varies, often around 9–12 inches.
Blade Configuration: Steeply angled or vertically mounted for scraping action.
Materials: Cast iron or steel, with adjustable blade angles for fine tuning.
Notable Examples:
Veritas Scraping Plane: A modern scraper with adjustable blade tension.
Lie-Nielsen No. 212 Small Scraping Plane: This unusual plane is based on the now scarce Stanley No. 212, which was discontinued in 1934.
8. Edge Plane: The Precision Trimmer
Description:
The edge plane is a narrow-bodied plane designed for refining the edges of boards and joints. It’s particularly useful for trimming tenons, cleaning up miters, or making fine adjustments to edges that need to be perfectly square. Its narrow sole allows for precise control over delicate areas that larger planes might miss.
History:
The edge plane has been used for centuries as a specialized tool for trimming and shaping the edges of wood. Developed around the 1800s, it was designed to offer fine control when working on the edges of boards, ensuring they were straight, smooth, and ready for joinery. Unlike other planes, which are larger and more general-purpose, the edge plane is smaller, with a narrower sole and a finely tuned blade that can be adjusted for very precise work.
The edge plane was particularly favored by cabinetmakers and furniture makers for its ability to refine the edges of pieces before final assembly. Over time, manufacturers like Stanley and Lie-Nielsen made improvements to the design, enhancing its accuracy and ease of use. The introduction of adjustable fences made the edge plane even more versatile, allowing woodworkers to trim edges with consistency and precision.
Evolution:
1800s: The edge plane was introduced to provide a precision tool for fine edge work.
20th Century: Adjustments in design, including adjustable fences, helped the edge plane become even more versatile for detailed work.
Modern Day: Today, the edge plane is still used in woodworking, especially when working on fine cabinet and furniture projects that require crisp, accurate edges.
Common Uses:
Trimming tenons and joint edges.
Refining the edges of boards.
Design Features:
Length: Usually 6–10 inches.
Blade Width: Narrower than most planes for precise edge work.
Materials: Cast iron or ductile iron, designed for precision adjustments.
Notable Examples:
Lie-Nielsen No. 95 Bronze Edge Plane: This plane is an adaptation of the Stanley No. 95, a specialty plane not made for many years.
Veritas Miniature Edge Plane: Known for its ergonomic design and fine-tuning capability, ideal for detailed edge work.
9. Shoulder Plane: The Joinery Finisher
Description:
The shoulder plane is an essential tool in fine joinery. It is used to clean up and square the shoulders of tenons, ensuring a perfect fit in mortise-and-tenon joints. The shoulder plane has a wide, flat sole and an adjustable mouth, allowing for very precise adjustments. It is also used to refine the edges of dados and grooves. This plane is essential when accuracy in fit and alignment is critical, such as in cabinetmaking and furniture construction.
History:
The shoulder plane was developed in the 19th century specifically for fine joinery work. Its name comes from its primary function, which is to refine and square the shoulders of tenons — a critical step in many types of joinery. Before the shoulder plane, woodworkers used chisels and other tools to refine these joints, but they found it difficult to achieve the fine accuracy needed for tight-fitting pieces. The shoulder plane offered a more controlled, efficient way to clean up and shape these areas, resulting in tighter and stronger joints.
Shoulder planes quickly became essential in cabinetry and furniture-making, where precise joints are the foundation of strong and lasting constructions. Early shoulder planes were hand-crafted, but as tool production became more industrialized, manufacturers like Stanley and Veritas began producing precision shoulder planes for woodworking professionals.
Evolution:
19th Century: Shoulder planes were introduced to refine the shoulders of tenons and improve the accuracy of joints.
Late 19th Century: Stanley began producing shoulder planes that became popular due to their durability and precision.
Modern Day: Today, shoulder planes remain indispensable for joinery work, particularly for tasks such as cleaning up tenons, making tight-fitting joints, and squaring edges.
Common Uses:
Squaring the shoulders of tenons.
Refining and cleaning up mortise and tenon joints.
Trimming small details and fine adjustments to joinery.
Design Features:
Length: 7–10 inches (depending on model).
Blade Width: Typically 1–1 ½ inches for clean, precise cuts.
Blade Configuration: Adjustable mouth and flat sole for smooth cuts.
Materials: Cast iron or steel, with some premium versions made with brass fittings for added weight and control.
Notable Examples:
Stanley No. 92 SweetHeart™ Shoulder / Chisel Plane: A vintage model with an adjustable mouth, widely recognized for its durability.
Lie-Nielsen No. 041 Small Shoulder Plane: A high-end model, designed for precision and ease of use, often preferred by professionals for its smooth action.
10. Skew Plane: The Grain Tamer
Description:
The skew plane is unique because it has a blade set at an angle, which allows it to handle difficult grain more efficiently. The skewed angle of the blade helps the plane cut through wood fibers at a diagonal, reducing the likelihood of tear-out, particularly in tricky grain patterns like curly maple. This makes it an excellent tool for smoothing difficult woods or fine detail work that requires a high level of precision.
History:
The skew plane has been in use since the 18th century and is specially designed for handling difficult wood grain, particularly when working with grain that is prone to tear-out. The unique feature of the skew plane is its blade, which is set at an angle (skewed), allowing the plane to cut through the wood fibers in a way that minimizes the risk of damaging the surface. This makes it an excellent choice for working with challenging woods, such as figured maple or oak, where the grain can be unpredictable.
The skew plane was a revolutionary tool in early woodworking, as it allowed craftsmen to achieve smooth surfaces on woods that were once considered too difficult to work with. Over time, manufacturers like Stanley and Lie-Nielsen improved the design, with newer models offering better control, comfort, and adjustability for woodworkers.
Evolution:
18th Century: The skew plane was developed to handle problematic grain and create smoother surfaces.
19th Century: The design of the skew plane was improved, with better steel for the blades and better control for users.
Modern Day: Today, the skew plane is still considered a specialist tool for tackling difficult grain patterns and achieving high-quality surfaces, especially in fine furniture and cabinetry.
Common Uses:
Smoothing difficult grain, such as in curly or figured woods.
Working with delicate or intricate surfaces where tear-out is a concern.
Design Features:
Length: Typically around 9–10 inches.
Blade Angle: Blade is skewed (angled) to cut through wood fibers more effectively.
Materials: Cast iron or brass, designed for durability and smooth action.
Notable Examples:
Lie-Nielsen No. 140 Skew Block Plane - Right: A classic plane known for its skewed blade and ability to handle difficult grain.
Veritas Skew Block Plane: A modern skew plane, highly regarded for its quality and design, with a low-angle blade perfect for working with difficult grain.
Hand Planes: Facts You Need to Know
Hand planes are essential tools in woodworking, used for shaping, smoothing, and finishing wood surfaces. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced woodworker, understanding the key facts about hand planes can significantly improve your projects. Here are some important details and insights you should know about these versatile tools:
1. Components of a Hand Plane
A hand plane typically consists of several key components:
Sole: The flat base of the plane that rests against the wood surface. It provides stability and control during use.
Blade or Iron: The cutting edge of the plane that removes shavings from the wood. The blade is adjustable for different depths of cut.
Cap Iron: A metal piece that sits above the blade to prevent the blade from clogging and to increase the overall stability of the plane.
Mouth: The opening through which the wood shavings pass as the plane is pushed across the surface. A smaller mouth provides finer shavings.
Handles: Most hand planes feature a front and rear handle, providing comfort and control while guiding the tool across the wood.
2. Sharpening and Maintenance
For optimal performance, the blade of a hand plane must remain sharp. Dull blades cause frustration, as they can tear the wood fibers and leave a rough finish. Regular sharpening is necessary to maintain smooth, accurate cuts. Common sharpening tools include:
Honing Stones: These are used to sharpen the edge of the blade.
Sharpening Jig: Helps achieve consistent angles during sharpening.
Strop: A leather strip used for polishing and fine-tuning the edge.
Proper maintenance of the plane’s components, such as keeping the sole flat and free of rust, ensures longevity and smooth operation.
3. How to Use a Hand Plane
Using a hand plane involves a few simple steps:
Set the Depth of Cut: Adjust the blade so that it takes thin, consistent shavings. A deeper cut may be needed for rough surfaces, while lighter cuts are ideal for smoothing.
Position the Plane: Place the plane flat against the wood surface with the sole touching the workpiece. Hold the plane by its handles, with your body weight behind the tool for added control.
Planing Motion: Push the plane forward in long, smooth strokes, following the direction of the grain. Work evenly across the surface, applying consistent pressure.
Check Your Progress: Frequently check the flatness and smoothness of your workpiece with a straightedge or light to ensure you're achieving the desired result.
4. Benefits of Using Hand Planes
While electric tools have their place in woodworking, hand planes offer several unique advantages:
Precision: Hand planes give woodworkers fine control over the depth and smoothness of their cuts.
No Power Source Needed: Unlike electric tools, hand planes do not require electricity or batteries, making them perfect for small or portable projects.
Sustainability: Hand planes are a more environmentally friendly choice since they don’t use electricity or create dust from power tools.
Improved Woodworking Skills: Using a hand plane requires focus and technique, which can help you develop better overall woodworking skills.
5. Choosing the Best Hand Planes for Your Projects
Selecting the right hand plane for the job is crucial to achieving the best results. Consider the following factors:
Project Type: For rough work, a jack plane may be ideal. For fine finishing, a smoothing plane is the best choice.
Blade Material: High-quality steel or carbide blades stay sharp longer, allowing for more precise cuts.
Weight and Comfort: Choose a hand plane that feels comfortable and well-balanced in your hand for better control during use.
Brand Reputation: Renowned brands like Stanley, Lie-Nielsen, and Veritas are known for producing durable and high-performance hand planes.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned woodworkers can make mistakes when using hand planes. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Using a Dull Blade: This leads to poor results and can damage the wood.
Not Keeping the Plane Flat: If the plane is tilted, it can leave uneven surfaces.
Using Too Much Pressure: Let the plane do the work—excessive pressure can cause gouging or uneven cuts.
By understanding these essential facts, you'll be well on your way to mastering hand planes and achieving smoother, more precise woodworking projects. Whether you're smoothing edges, flattening surfaces, or perfecting joints, hand planes are indispensable tools that help bring your woodworking vision to life.
Conclusion
Hand planes are invaluable tools in any woodworker’s collection. Each type serves a specific purpose and has its own unique design features, making it important to select the best hand planes for the task at hand. Whether you’re working on rough stock with a jack plane, fine-tuning edges with a shoulder plane, or perfecting a smooth finish with a smoothing plane, understanding the history, design, and usage of each type of plane will help you achieve superior results in your woodworking projects.
By investing in quality tools and learning to use them effectively, you can elevate your woodworking to new heights, creating pieces that are both beautiful and precise. Remember to keep your planes well-maintained and sharp, as this ensures the best performance and the most satisfying woodworking experience.
Articles You May Enjoy
(click on picture to open link)
Articles from our affiliate!
(click on picture to open link)
