Ernie (but anyone can comment)-
thanks in advance for your time and any information you provide. I have been buying power tools for my basement shop for 2-3 years now. I have used the power tools more for carpentry-type work (around the house) than woodworking. I now want to get involved in more traditional woodworking and begin utilizing more hand tools.
One of my first hand tool purchases will be a couple of hand planes (probably Veritas).
Question – how would you prioritize hand plane purchases? Assuming that I cannot buy every plane that I need immediately, what 2-3 planes would you buy first?
Once again, thanks.
Jason M.
Replies
One of the advantages of my point in life is that I have a large archive of previously written material to delve into to answer questions. I am attaching an extract from a piece I did earlier this year on plane history which will explain, in more detail that you probably want to know, what the various Bench Planes do. I think the Veritas is a very good choice. It is well made and has the Norris type adjuster. I would buy your Bench Planes in the following order: Jack, Smoother, Jointer. The attached paper will explain how each of these works. I did this paper with an antique method of word processing called a fountain pen so bear with its "free form" nature. I often use a pen when many illustrations are necessary as it is quicker in the long run. If you have further questions just ask.
With best regards,
Ernie Conover
Ernie -
Thanks for the info and article. It was very informative.
One last question - What do you think of the new Veritas line of low-angle planes. They only offer two jacks - a 5 1/4 junior jack and a low-angle jack. I have read a little about their low-angle line but would appreciate any input you have.
Once again, thanks for the article.
Best regards,
Jason
I would invest in traditional bench planes before acquiring low angle planes. Theory says the traditional plane should work better in plank grain situations, however, low angle planes seem to work better at times. I think this is the mouth adjustment scheme which I cover in the paper. It is easier to get a very small mouth with the Stanley/Bailey type low angle plane. With best regards,
Ernie Conover
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