Today I was given a Bailey #3 smoothing plane, in very poor condition. What I’m wondering is, does anyone think it will work for what I’m doing? I work with alot of curly woods and exotics. However, I don’t do big stuff, just small. Does anyone have any suggestions on where I might go to find out information regarding working with this plane? It has adjustments that I’m not familiar with. I, also, have a Stanley block plane. Is that going to work on my wood? Neither of these planes are tuned, would like to find out if they are going to work before I put all the effort into them.
Thank you.
Robin
Replies
Hi Robin,
I've got a ton of great info from the forum lately and have the makings of a plane collection started. I feel compelled to return the favor ;)
The most reccomended resource is Garrett Hacks "The Handplane Book" by Taunton Press. I've read it recently and really enjoyed it. Tons of useful info and nice colour pics throughout.
The #3 is less common then the #4 and #5 bench planes. It would be used for smoothing long grain but may not have the size and mass to work effectively in difficult woods.
The block plane would work well for smaller projects to work end grain. Some will say that it is the most used plane, others will say it is used only occasionally for chamfering. My feeling is that it is well worth having.
Hack's book will explain exactly what to do to tune up the planes. You will also learn the basics of how a blade cuts the wood (bevel angle, throat opening) to help set your blade and throat width.
If the planes require a ton of work I'd say they aren't worth it. Sell em on Ebay for $15 bucks and you can get them in good condition for probably $30 - $50. I recently bought two miller falls planes (#3 & #5) for about $50 total and they are in good condition.
This is a slippery slope, but I think it will make your woodworking more enjoyable. It is a beautiful thing to make long curly shavings...
Andy
Robinlynn,
The previous advice given was good advice. If you recondition this plane and tune it, with the right information available to you, it will be a great experience about learning and getting into hand planes. It will serve you well.
About the Bailey, all depends on the date of manufacture. If it was recently, all I can tell you is that mine ended up in the trash can. If it has a wooden handle and was made before 1955, it is well worth your while and can last for a few generations.
I inherited my wife's grandfather's Bailey #3 along with his Bedrock 5-1/2 (1930's era)
With some honest tune up, and a new blade (Hock, LV or LN), it amazes people who visit my shop. Most people don't have experience with a tuned plane, and they have bad memories of clunkers and chippers.
It will be perfect for you.
The older I get, the better I was....
and they have bad memories of clunkers and chippers..
I do! I went to drive-ins with different girls back in the early 50's....
However, I don't do big stuff, just small.
Just me.. I'd use sandpaper and a wooden block that is really FLAT!
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