bitenbythebug

Disclaimer first: I only own the LV handplanes and am not against LN's tools; I just thought the reasons LV gave out for its decision were not holding water. Some of you referred to the poor quality of the WoodRiver planes. I'm pretty sure none of them have owned the new line of planes. I said this because they didn't give any specifics as to what was wrong with the cheaper planes. I urge you all to read this review done by none by FWW:

http://www.finewoodworking.com/ToolGuide/ToolGuideProduct.aspx?id=32552

I'm not saying you should buy a WoodRiver plane in place of any other brands; I'm saying you shouldn't rule out WoodRiver just because someone here said so. As a matter of fact, people begin to mix politics in the discussion such as will never buy from WC because it carries planes made in China, etc. That is everyone's decision but has nothing to do with LN's reasons why it parted ways with WC.

If you killed WC, you think you'd be saving more US jobs? Feel free not to buy from WC, HomeDeopt etc., but don't think you do that as a noble cause of saving jobs in the US.

When two business partners part their ways, either side would have its story to tell. So far we only heard the side form LN and it would be fair to WC until FWW covers its. Do you think Lee Valley doesn't keep its planes in locked cabinets? In their showrooms, many items are displayed behind locked glass cabinets. So what? We can simply ask and their staff would gladly open the case and hand you what you want to look at. WC would do the same when asked. I don't see any issue there and for the VP of LN to mention that as a reason of parting ways is low ball. The real reason is of course WC is carrying WoodRiver. Even a blind person can see that. This is the kind of business integrity I expect from LN. Some years ago, FWW and LV had had some working issue but they didn't go around badmouthing each other to their customers. LN owes WC an apology by blaming poor customer service for the separation. The timing is at least suspicious ... WC + WR planes = Parting ways announced