These planes fill a specific need that I had: to cut the grooves for the bottoms of the small drawers and trays I find myself making far too often. You can read more about them here and in an upcoming issue of Fine Woodworking.
Fine Woodworking Recommended Products
Ridgid R4331 Planer
Priced nearly $300 less than the DeWalt 735X, the Ridgid R4331 is an excellent value. Its three-knife cutterhead left wonderfully clean surfaces on plainsawn white oak and white pine. It did not perform nearly as well on curly maple as the 735X, but it created less tearout than all but one of the other machines (the DeWalt 734 was its equal). Knife changes were quick and easy with the provided T-handle wrench. Dust collection was good, assisted by an internal fan. The 2-1/2-in.-dia. port on the outfeed side of the machine is directed to the side, so the hose is out of the way. The planer’s top is flat and provides a good surface for holding stock between passes.
- Excellent dust collection and stock removal. Must be used with a vacuum - The paddle switch was awkward to use, but the shape of the head made handling - Comfortable with one hand or two - Stops very quickly.
The big motor on this collector left the chamber under my jointer very clean. You’ll need help to get this heavy unit onto its bracket, but if you’re looking for a central dust collector that won’t gobble floor space, this may be the unit for you. Strangely, this huge unit comes with the smallest plastic chip bag, but you can replace that with a taller one from Rockler.
The adjuster runs through the beam from a small knob at the back end right to the cutting wheel, which moves in and out as you turn the knob. This arrangement works well but makes adjustments a two-handed operation, requiring a little more effort.
Hi Matt, I called Lie Nielsen to ask if they have any 1/8" irons for ssale as I'd like to make a drawer bottom plane. They said they do as the Honorable Matt Kinney will be writing up a project for an upcoming issue. Great and I bought the pair (that's how they're being sold).
Can you advise if it will be the next upcoming issue?
I wonder why they made the irons so short in length?
You might be the first person to buy them! Cool. The irons aren't actually short. LN made them to the exact dimensions of the irons I made for my planes, so as long as you make the same planes you'll be fine.
With its graceful curves, cabriole legs, and ornamental back splat, a Queen Anne side chair is a bucket list build for many woodworkers. Dan Faia had a very specific Queen…
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Comments
Very nice Matt.
Hi there, They look great. I'm thinking of making something similar for a need of mine too.. Cheers
Has anyone out there made a 'bull nose' plane?
Cheers
Rich
Hi Matt, I called Lie Nielsen to ask if they have any 1/8" irons for ssale as I'd like to make a drawer bottom plane. They said they do as the Honorable Matt Kinney will be writing up a project for an upcoming issue. Great and I bought the pair (that's how they're being sold).
Can you advise if it will be the next upcoming issue?
I wonder why they made the irons so short in length?
Thank you and best regards,
Tom Colligan
Peoria, IL
tomwoodworker,
You might be the first person to buy them! Cool. The irons aren't actually short. LN made them to the exact dimensions of the irons I made for my planes, so as long as you make the same planes you'll be fine.
Good luck with the building. Matt
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