A rabbit’en plane was a luxery and a dream for me. When browsing a favorite antique shop I saw a Stanley no. 78 sitting there.
I sport a big pair of mitts and most handles aren’t that comfortable. This felt sweet in my hand. Further inspection told me this tool was cared for, no rust and “running” parts were buffed. I, according to what I could see on line, payed a fair price.
Not being an expert on planes (but a knowologist otherwise – LOL) I’m wondering what the little gizzmo on the side is about. Seems like it’s a scribe of some sort having three different edges and the fourth position is recessed from the sole.
It also has a unique iron and I’ll be keeping a lookout for an extra.
Thanks
Glen
Replies
Cloverleaf nicker used to score the cut when planing cross-grain. You hone one nicker and when it gets too short from successive honings you turn it to the next "leaf."
I never use mine - I score gross-grain cuts with a knife.
You can order replacement irons and nickers from Highland Woodworking. Their website is http://www.highlandwoodworking.com. They also carry some replacement parts for the Stanley #78 if you are missing any pieces. Ditto the last post, you get cleaner work going cross grain if you score it with a knife first instead of relying on the nicker. Once you get use to how the plane works you will find it quicker to use for one offs than setting up your router or tablesaw.
It is my understanding that Stanley still sells parts for the 78. Look 'em up on the web. Those knickers fit many of the old Stanley planes.
Cheers from Canada
Just took a look at your plane. I collect Stanley planes and that one is a dandy....nice early model. You are missing the depth stop but you should be able to find one on e-bay etc.
p.s. Stanley still sells those knickers. They call them spurs and the spur and screw is a whopping $1.10.
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