psm3

My first shop tool was a bandsaw. No regrets. Handplanes ( not Lie-Nielsen's, Veritas, Bedrocks, etc.) properly tuned,i.e., "fettled" can makes surfacing and thicknessing go quickly plus it is a good workout, and you feel that you are working wood. Old Stanley planes can be found on e-bay for reasonable prices. I started with Stanley but in the past few years I've been seeking Sargent planes which pretty much duplicate Stanley's range of models. They have a heavier body casting which means you have to do less pressing down and more pushing. Since most modern benches are higher than the old days, this is an advantage. Nothing helps you escape yourself like a session with sharp chisels, gouges, saws and planes. And the aroma of fresh shavings can't be topped. If you earn your livelihood doing woodworking, machines are the way to go.