Two hand planes you didn't know you needed
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- Опубліковано 30 лип 2024
- Power tool woodworkers have different needs- These planes fill them!
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Do you have an opinion on the Bridge City planes? They look gorgeous, but I’m curious how well they work.
You have answered the question I could never get satisfactorily answered. I would love to incorporate planes with my power tools but never knew where to start. Planing a board smooth rather than sanding appeals to me and I’m sure my lungs will appreciate it as well. I have been making do with a lower quality block plane and when I have it working correctly it is a joy to use but when it is out of sync it frustrates me to no end. User error has to take some of the responsibility but I can also recognize when it does not maintain the setting for very long. Back to basics for me I suppose.
@@Machmuude I own three of them. They are top-quality planes for those who have a lot of extra cash to spend :)
If you check, David Charlesworth introduced the 5 1/2 over 20 years ago as his "super smoother" he just didn't make a lot of you tube videos.
As an aside, I refuse to buy woodcraft planes as they are Chinese copies of Lie-Nielsen.
@@michaelfling7786 - LOL! Both Lie-Nielsen and Woodcraft are copies of Stanley's Bedrock line of planes. And David Charlesworth was definitely not the first one to use the 5-1/2, which has been around for 150 years, as a smoother... I always find it curious why some folks think they first place THEY happened to see something must be the original source or the owner of that particular idea.
In approximately 8 minutes, you upped every beginning woodworkers game. Great video. Maybe more on how to start using a plane for those of us who never had?
A friend’s father handed me a Stanley 4 1/2 and 5 1/2 this past March. Changed my game.
Love the way you were gentle when giving a different perspective than Mr. Sellers. Much respect given. Nice. Great info as always James. Thanks!!
I have nothing but respect for him :)
Mr Sellers is awesome and his channel is absolutely invaluable. But sometimes some people have different needs :)
I’d accept James as an honorary Canadian (due to his politeness) were it not for his Red Wings fetish… still, a really nice guy!
@@StumpyNubs it shows! 😊
I’ve finally aged enough that patience and progress have reached a good balance. And a project I’m on forced me to use a junky craftsman block plane I found for $10. Instantly made me want to learn more and buy better quality! I think I’m going with your advice on these two sizes also. Perfect for my needs. 👍🏼
I liked how you paid respect and homage to Paul Sellers, one of the modern greats IMO. I also follow the Cosman methods. But doesn’t mean I don’t learn from Sellers, Matt Estlea (UK), Jonathan Katz-Moses and last, but by no means the least, you James.
You are all great in my book!
The estlea kid is self taught and too young to be a master
Katz moses was a contractor who went out of business and screwed all the vendors
Lol he's barely a woodworker
@@devonwainstein9188 not sure where all the negativity is coming from here about Katz-Moses either. Everyone makes and has made mistakes in life. Are you perfect? I sure ain’t. Sounds like JKM has turned his life around then, so good for him. Sure makes some nice stuff, takes the time out to show people who have less knowledge than he does how to do things.
Is your mindset really in the right place, trying to tear down people? Pretty easy to blast them, as they are somewhat public figures, but I’m sure you wouldn’t even stand up to your own style of scrutiny if you were in their same position.
@@devonwainstein9188 AIUI Estlea spent several years working for a high end woodworking shop.
Nope. He went to furniture building school in the UK and worked for one of the best custom tool companies in the world.
It would be a real challenge to find a video that has as much value as these 7 minutes! No fluff, just solid, clear, practical and immediately useful info. Every woodworker should be paying close attention! Also appreciate your respectful and professional attitude towards others like Paul Sellers and Rob Cosman. You are an expert in the field, an endless source of encouragement and inspiration, and... a Gentleman. IOW a rare person!
Funny that you mention Rob Cosman who absolutely sold me on saving up to the 4 1/2 WoodRiver . I am NOT a major craftsman of any kind but Paul Sellers does have my attention on the no 4 and I have three (not so good restorations yet). I also has the 6 and 7 but... those planes are because they came together in a bulk buy. I have three block planes and I hate them because they are finicky to use and keep aligned.and maintain their setting. I am NO authority of any kind so I listen to all of you. I do NOT disagree with any of your arguments but I will probably still get the 4 1/2. Thank you for a great video.
When I started my apprenticeship as a site carpenter in England 38 years ago, I was told that I would only ever need 2 planes. A block plane and a 5 1/2. I bought a second hand Record SS 5 1/2 (don't think they are available in USA but in my opinion better than Stanley) still have them both.
I too have a Record 5 1/2, one I restored from the fifties. Its my go-to plane for 95% of work. I had to remake the handle, but the metal parts were in good nick when I got it off ebay for peanuts. I had a good vintage Record no.4 as well, but gave that away to one of my sons as I never used it. The only #4 left in my workshop is a chinese cheapo Silverline, set up as a scrub plane for rough surfacing panels too big for my planer/thicknesser. Love the 5 1/2 for the easier straightness you can achieve when dressing panel edges, and the wider flat area when cleaning the faces of panels.
Long time power guy who, with the extra time afforded by retirement, is doing more with hand tools. I have a nice block plane I bought new; a 4 that was my grandpa’s and a 5 1/2 I rescued from a thrift shop. I believe the 4 is over 100 years old and the big plane is 70-80. After a lot of videos by the 3 guys mentioned here, all three are a pleasure to use.
It’s interesting to hear a variety of opinions on this topic. Most if not all individuals are influenced by very capable individuals like Sellers and Cosman. IMHO, a woodworker has to buy what is required for a particular project and of course what he or she can afford. As a power tool fan from the New Yankee Workshop days, I ended up with a collection of “one of everything “ as Norm promoted power tools. The same is with individuals like Cosman who has now progressed into a tool salesman to supplement his wood working educational outlet. He is probably the current leader in this field and supports a worthy cause. Sellers on the other hand is an excellent and highly skilled teacher of hand tools. What I don’t support in the former is the promotion of Chinese made tools like the WoodRiver line and would opt for Veritas. Lie Neilson’s tool are excellent (Rob Cosman was a LN rep. at the travelling shows) but are extremely expensive.
I wouldn't be without a block plane but I also wouldn't be without another plane in the 4 to 5½ range. My woodworking isn't just about shop projects, it's also about DIY about the house. I've got everything from a No 3 to a No 7 but I also have a second No 4 that goes in my tool box if I'm working away from the shop.
One of the most useful planes I have is a No.3 from Clifton. Heavy, accurate and very well made. Compares with the best on the market. And made in the UK.
I gave up buying cheap and Chinese.
Thank you for the Hand Plane suggestions. I'm wanting to add to my hand tool collection, and this has been extremely helpful.
As a Swede it brings me joy to see a Sjöbergs bench in places like this. I have two small ones at home and at least one of them are older than me.
I posess all those planes. But your view on planes is quite interesting. And I thought thst I would agree. Indeed a block plane is mostly used.And 5,5 is heavy and I use it successfully with shooting board, since there is no need to lift it ))))).
For beginners a combination of these two planes is the most reasonable choise
I have a 5-1/2 Wood River plane and it's excellent not only as a feature of its quality but also because the 5-1/2 is an excellent all round plane. Its heft enable it to be handled with confidence as it's not 'flighty' and yet its light enough to be used with ease.
Love all your videos. This particular one is probably best for a beginner. It seems to me all accomplished tradesmen have a favorite way to do everything, none are better or worse than the other. They're just special to that individual.
I normally agree with you on just about everything you say, but sanding. I feel like if new woodworkers learn how to properly use a smoother and block plane to finish your work, they'd never use sandpaper again...at least not for pieces with angles.
This was my experience with a Stanley SB4, I purchased 25 years ago. Hated it and decided that hand planes were imperfect tools from a bygone era. Until I saw Cosman’s video on the 5 1/2 and bought one. Over the course of the past 4 years, my whole workflow has shifted from power to hybrid and now mostly hand tools. Since I’m just a hobbyist, this works great for me.
I wholeheartedly agree with buying a new premium plane rather than restoring an old one. I would add that all the materials (e.g. sand paper) needed to restore a plane can be very expensive, and you end up reducing a lot of the “savings.” I learned this the hard way.
I did a lot of research on new hand planes, and here’s what I ended up buying in this order:
1. Block plane - Lie-Nielsen No. 102 low angle
2. Jack plane - Veritas low angle with two irons; 25 and 38 degree bevels
3. Smoother - Lie-Nielsen No. 4 in bronze
The Veritas excels on a shooting board. Also, with the 38-degree iron it both smooths and flattens well. The Lie-Nielsen No. 4 is a beauty to behold and provides an unparalleled psychological boost.
This is very helpful and I appreciate it. One question, I’ve been told a plane on a shooting board shouldn’t have any camber on the blade but a slight camber is often used on a plane for smoothing. If I get a 5 1/2 should I not have any camber? I know the slightest camber is sometimes added to avoid any ridges left by the two corners of the blade.
I have not used a hand plane since highschool but have recently found renewed interest. Perfect timing. Thank you for the information.
If it helps anyone, I picked up an old Stanley No. 5 because it was there and stupidly cheap. It's far more like a No. 4 than a No. 6. No. 4 width but significantly longer but not a lot heavier. Much lighter than the No. 6. Feels good - but it's probably too long for some jobs.
Good call! I bought and sold a variety of hand planes sizes during the Covid slows, but find myself only using the above two.
Solid advice, I have some very similar but much older planes that were my grandpa's from the early 1920s, very nice to use and very versatile
More hand tool videos please. I'm just now getting into using them along with power tools and I need all the advice I can get.
Totally agree on the 5 1/2. I bought a 5 and a 6. One is a little too big, one is a little too small. Bought a 5 1/2 and its perfect length, width and weight.
But I disagree in the block plane. The number 3 is waaaaay better IMO. It’s a slightly longer block plane that you can use with 2 hands - and that has a long enough toe to smooth dovetails and box joints without a lot of concentration. It also has a tiny bit of extra weight that helps with end grain and areas prone to tear out.
Between this video and Cosman's video, it looks like I'll be saving my pennies for a block plane and a 5 1/2. Thanks so much for the info. Hand planes have been a confusing aspect of woodworking for me, and videos like this have helped a lot.
Proper use and selection of the best hand lane takes good amount of practice. I never really learned how use a hand plane. Exploring more now. Thanks for this video.
Solid advice! I do mostly hand tool wood working, but the 5-1/2 and block plane (9-1/2) are my go to planes whether it is hand tool or power tool wood working.
I originally bought a #4 smoother after watching a few Paul Sellers videos. Used it for a while and worked well. Then I saw Rob Cosman’s videos and his recommendation for a 5 1/2”. I haven’t touched the 4 since. I’m going to get a block plane now.
Great call. As I am hand plane shopping for my first planes, this is great guidance. Thank you!
Hello, I rarely comment on videos posted on the internet. I must say that your advice has always been extremely useful and would like to take the opportunity to thank you for all the work you put on this channel.
This video about hand planes was just what I needed to try out more hand tools. I was definitely hesitant to start buying a whole bunch of hand planes due to the wide variety of tools available. Will try the 5 1/2 and the block plane.
Many many thanks for your work.
Kindest regards,
David Lesage, Montreal, Québec, Canada
Both you and Paul make good points, I agree with your point about primarily power tool or hand tool work
Your video is really making me rethink about my idea... I am the shop teacher in a high school. We have 16 Stanley No. 5s and I need more. Finding No.5's is hard so I'm looking to get something else. I was thinking of No. 4's but you suggest No. 5 1/2. The kids are using them to plane rough milled 8/4 pine. I'm worried that the 5 1/2's are too heavy for some of the kids. But, people keep referring to the No. 4 as a smoother and a No. 5 as a scrub plane. Confusing!
Amen, Stump, and as nice as 5-1/2s are, they're kind of scarce and expensive on the used market. #6s however, are plentiful and cheap. Millions of carpenters lugged them to the job site for generations to have many of the same attributes you've mentioned for the 5-1/2 plus they're a little better suited to jointing. At tool swap meets you ought to be able to get a battered and maybe rusted #6 with rosewood handles and no casting breaks or boogered oddball threads pretty quickly for about the same money as a #4. I happened into the pieces to put together a 606 Bedrock, put a premium blade in it and am tuning it for use in a shooting board. Pretty snoot, huh?
Another thing you can do if it's going to be a user, cut down the back end of an old #6 for lighter weight. You get the same width iron as the new 5 1/2s for a lot less outlay
Hi James. Brilliant! This is a topic I've struggled with. When I started to learn about woodworking some sixty years ago, hand tools were almost the only thing available. Dad had a very basic table saw, a Skill circular saw and a 1/4" electric drill, so I learned a bit about hand tools. Fast forward to now and I have a fully equipped shop filled with power tools. I do have a couple cheap hand planes and while they are useful, a silk purse cannot be made from a sows ear. Now I know what to buy, a good brand to search out and why. You are truly a gem, there are so many enhancements to my shop that originated right here. Thanks so much for sharing!
As soon as I saw the 5-1/2 on the bench I thought “he’s been Cosmantized !” Lol great choice James, you’re integrity is impeccable and keeps me watching ! Always look forward to your woodworking knowledge bombs, sharing your experience with us is invaluable!
A few planes make so much sense; very often some small task is done and forgotten about using a plane while you'd still be setting up and getting ready to use a power tool. Excellent!!
Immediately makes me want to go invest in those planes with an excellent explanation of what planes would be best to benefit a modern workshop environment and some excellent guidance on problems they solve for you.
The latest excellent video. I have inherited a 5, a 4 and a block to complement the power tools, but now I will keep an eye out for a 5 1/2. I love using sharp planes but I confess I've not yet fully got to grips with the block. Something to work on! Thanks for the respectful, informative and interesting video.
Back in 1969 in Freshman shop class we used a Stanley #5 for everything. Just about all of the guys became proficient enough to joint boards of any length for panel glue ups. We didn't know longer planes even existed. Because of that, even though I own a bunch of planes, my old Stanley #5 sees the most use.
I find this video interesting. I never thought about it but these are the only two planes I reach for. My Dad had several and now they are in my shop. The block plane and #5 1/2 get used most every day. These two old planes work well but the new quality planes do have some advantages. Well constructed and thicker blades. If I didn't have these I would go shopping. Great advice Stumpy! Thanks!
Thank you Stumpy. Solid advice. I completely agree. Being a mostly power tool worker i generally use a small block plane for clean. But wonder what size would be good for a larger bench plane.
Hey Stumpy!
I've been watching you for a while now. Before watching this video, I saught out advice from seasoned wood workers & some experts at local wood tool shops.
All led meet to the message you shared in this video; I first purchased a quality (low angle) Block Plane, then "went Big" with a #5 1/2.
No regrets about either plane.
In fact, buying them has me interested in moving away from more power tools and doing even more wood working by hand!
Keep these videos coming.
I love your work!
Glad to hear you agree with Rob Cosman on the 5-1/2 jack plane. I am a power tool user that wants to add a hand plane or two to my arsenal of tools. I had already decided to get a low angle block plane, and now I,m thinking I’ll go ahead and get a 5-1/2. Thanks for helping me decide!
This video has upped my future projects quality, in less than 10 minutes. Thank you.
I have a Lie Nielsen 62 and the Woodriver block plane you showed in this video. They are my first and only hand planes and I love them both. I can quickly, cleanly and quietly perform tasks that used to require a jointer, tablesaw or router. There is something extremely satisfying about cutting those beautiful thin curls.
I think you are exactly right
I personally use my block plane all the time and is my go to tool for all my quick planing needs
Brilliant
You are right on the money that the block plane should be the first plane for a power tool woodworker. When I left the workshop to become a site carpenter the first plane that I acquired was a block plane. A bench plane is on very little use without a bench. The second was a bullnose plane which is very useful for tweaking rebates and close into the corners. My third and specific to my specialism of sash window renovations was a side rebate plane.
Hand planes offer an advantage over machines for jointing in that there is no snipe when used correctly.
On one occassion when I wanted to lay flooring through a lounge I wanted to produce a long straight edge to act as a datum. This I did with several pieces of ply clamped together and planed like a rubbed joint testing as I went to ensure that they were absolutely true.
When using a jack plane I prefer wooden jack planes as they are lighter and with a beeswaxed sole slip like greased eels reducing effort for longer jobs.
Thanks for the thoughtful video. No matter my intentions, I always find myself making doors and, for me that means tenon & mortise joining. For cleaning up tenons (and many more applications that I have found over time), I love my Lie-Neilson shoulder plane and would recommend it to a woodworker that is thinking about adding a third plane.
As a new weekend woodworker, I used a simple Kobalt block plane to even out the dining room table that I built. While I want to build up my tool selection and use more power tools going forward, you can definitely achieve good results with basic tools if you put in the extra effort.
Thanks for all your great tips! I wish I'd found this channel before finishing the table, but I'll definitely watch for new content as I continue learning and making new projects.
it´s exactly what I experienced! you put it on words, thank you!
My block plane lives in my apron. There are so many times where reaching for it is just the most practical tool for the job. I had a project that needed some very small wrap around external trim. I cut a piece wrong and I was out of new pieces, so I scarfed two shorter ones together. My block plane flushed the two up in just a few passes. Once painted, I couldn’t even tell where it was.
I have always appreciated your views. Like others that watch your vids, I also watch many other vids to get a full perspective on the subject. You are consistent, and respectful of others. I have always bought the best I can afford to eliminate spending money twice on the same tools. Performance of the tool and the return on the money is top priority for me. Thanks for helping me make solid decisions on tools .
I usually use a Stanley 6 for this, but I’m warming up to these 1/2 sizes. I’m liking the idea of the extra width and heft. I think a 5 1/2 will be in my toolbox sooner rather than later!
Both you and Paul bring out some great points. I'm a big proponent of "whatever works". It would be interesting to find out if this type of discussion was had by woodworkers from the past. One again, it seems to me that it all boils down to personal preference.
Thanks for the great video and advice James. I personally like my old Stanley block planes, #4, and #5. I have large hands and find for smoothing and edging, I prefer my #5. I hope someday to get a #5 and a half.
May I suggest a no. 5 hand plane is better than a 5 1/2, why for most people A 5 1/2 is heavy and bulky to handle, a a no.5 is sleek and light. And if you are trying to do some fine work, light and sleek works. cheers from Tasmania like you video .
Well said. Thanks for all your time and effort.
I have to agree with your assessment of Woodriver plane
Planes. But I have an old 5 1/4 I tennis to grab all the time. Works great on small pieces. I am a hybrid worker, use hand tools when necessary but can’t beat the speed and consistency of power tools. Thanks for the video. Looks like I replied to myself, actually accidentally hit the post button.
This video came at the right time. I already have a nice block plane and was about to get a another but I think I will upgrade to a 5 1/2.
Your content is always insightful! Like to see a video from you on setting up a block plane and how to use.
541k subs! Way to go James. Thanks for the video. Always helpful tips.
I use the #4 first and I agree with Sellers. I like the older Stanleys better than my LieNielsens. I use the #3 before I use my block planes.
good to see that a tradesmen like using his hand tools. As you commented power tools tend to be the tool of preference. I was thought to use my hand tools before I was allowed to use the power tools. The beauty of using hand tools is the satisfaction of the final finish that is achieved along with the internal pleasure you get at the finish.
Great discussion James. Thanks.
I inherited a #2 block and #5 1/2 plane, but never used them because I didn’t understand them. I finally sharpened the blades, figured out the bevel up/bevel down on the 5 1/2 plane and now I love using both of them! The #2 plane is my usual go to hand plane, I can get paper thin shavings all the time. I bought a $12 rusted junk #4 from an antique store, restored it, and now I love using it too. I’m a power tool first guy but hand planes are awesome when you finally learn to work with them and not force them.
James - watch your video without the sound on. Notice how the block plane is more difficult to use on all but the chamfer. The #4 seems to be doing all the tasks with ease. Yes the block plane is great for some of these tasks, but unless you are in a tight space, it appears the #4 does them all with less effort.
I was using it in an awkward position do stay out of the camera's way. I don't find it difficult under normal circumstances. But not everyone feels the same way, and the important thing is to use what works best for you :)
Thanks for sharing those tips!
I totally agree Stumpy!
I own about eight planes-my block plane is what I use 90% of the time. Just make sure it’s a good one, like he said. Mine is a Lie-Nielsen, and worth every penny.
I’m a power tool user, so don’t have much use for large planes.
I think that you're not wrong. Thank you - I hadn't thought about hand plane complementing power tooling before. Thank you.
I generally only go to Paul when I need to figure out something for a project I intend to do mostly by hand. Yes I may still use a jointer and a planer but there are times when settling down with some old fashioned techniques is a nice change of pace.
Thank you for sharing this information I do agree by 1000 percent sir since 1995 my grandfather gave me a Bailey 5 1/2 and a block plane he said this is all you need and that Delta table saw is for you when you get safety training for use and maintenance
I happily agree with your conclusions, especially since they agree with mine! As always, very nicely presented.
Just got my first 5 1/2 Woodriver at your recommendation. I set it up according to Rob Cosman's setting up a new plane and his 32 seconds to blade sharpening. All I can say now is WOW! I enjoy Paul Sellers but I'm more of a power tool guy and I'm physically a lot bigger than he. The number 4 is too small for my hand.
I own a large number of planes and use them regularly. I agree whole heartedly with the block plane, mine is a low profile 62 and works well with end grain. my go to on first pass is usually the 5½, after that it's what ever makes the best joint or finish. all of my lumber is bought unsurfaced, best price and greatest feeling of accomplishment. People have to wait a bit longer for the finished product but once in hand they do not complain. like others have said, thanks for giving Paul Sellers quiet respect. I've learned a great deal from him as well as that Hamilton guy on a different channel.
Just yesterday I bought this exact same block plane new at Woodcraft for the same reason you state here. I wanted to get the best new one that I can afford, rather than a used one that potentially was tortured during use or not restored properly. If I ever see the need for larger plane jobs, I will get that 5-1/2 as well.
Totally agree with you. After watch Rob Cosman last year, I converted from a #4 to a #5 1/2 and haven't looked back. Meets my needs much better.
This was exactly what I needed to hear. Ordering now. Thanks so much!
Excellent explanation and demonstration. Thank you.
Thank you, this video came just in time.
Love this video! Great info and perspective. My brother in law just gifted me a block plane, thanks @MnM Wood Works 👊!!! I don't recall having heard of a 5 1/2 hand plane, thanks for that tip. I'll definitely be looking into that. Keep these awesome videos coming, take care and have a good one. Adios! 🖐
Thank you. As a very good price compelling argument for both of these planes I'm sold on the five-and-a-half thank you
I just watched this video again. Horses for courses. I’ve progressed from being a hand tool woodworker when young and poor to gradually buying and preferring power tools. I have slowly acquired hand tools also. I have three Stanley number 4s. They are what the shops sell and the most numerous on eBay. I do use them with different blade settings. They are really not as appropriate as a number 5 or five and a half. I was given a Stanley 2 and it works well for block plane situations. When there are noise considerations I use my Qiangsheng rebating block plane frequently. Regarding a shooting board. I think it is too difficult for a beginner. Better to use sandpaper on a two by two or similar. I use an edge sander for squaring and trimming ends. You never have enough tools hand or power. Working freehand for most is never going to be as accurate as power tools but it sure is satisfying if it’s accurate enough.
This is a great presentation.
I am primarily a power tool user, but see the advantages of planes for finishing.
I have a (cheap) block and #4 plane. But investing in a good 5.5 plane is something I can do.
Thanks, this couldn't be any better advice for me right now. I like the hybrid method, just want to best result with the budget, time and space I have available. I have a table saw and drill press and very little room left for many other big tools. I really hate a lot of sanding anyway. I will look into both making a shooting board and quality plane. I only have a small stanley block plane now, and really don't use it as much as I should.
I find my #4 and block planes are very useful. For me. However, I've never gotten my rather nice #5 to work well for me, so that's my problem. Yeah. I have plenty of planes. I don't have a 5 1/2 though. Probably get one eventually. This is still a great video. Thanks.
Excellent perspective for those of us that employee a hybrid power tool / hand tool process!
Agree with James' assessment except that the modern 5 1/2 is too heavy, for my liking and the wider blade shaving is harder to push. The no 5 is a perfect balance of weight and 'pushability'. Also the 2" iron is easier to sharpen.
I was told by my college lecturer that the basic plane set for starting out was 9 1/2 block plane, no 4 smoothing plane and no 5 jack plane. After years in the trade my go to planes are the 60 1/2 block plane, the no 3 smoothing plane and the 5 1/2 jack plane.
When I saw the question in the thumbnail, my immediate thought was my posh block plane and my fave 5 1/2 old Stanley. I used the block plane constantly and treated myself to a Lie Nielson for one of my significant birthdays, whilst it was on sale. The thickness of the blade and the quality of it means I can get a fantastic edge, that lasts an outrageously long time. The 5 1/2 was a random ebay buy, and once I'd tidied it up, it soon became my favourite larger plane. I love the width and weight and find the ubiquitous 4 to be too small and pitchy for anything I use it for. But if I had to reduce to only one, it would the Lie Nielsen block plane, which I can pretty much make do anything.
i'm a powertool woodworker and a pro trim guy(cabinets, doors, casing etc etc) and my two "work" planes are my very elderly stanley 9 1/2 block and my veritas LA jack. both are always on jobsites with me
Great timing on the vid. I've been wondering what to get to help finish out some joined edges that I'd rather not spend time sanding. Wanted to try planers but had no idea what to start with.
I've watched your videos for over a year now and I've never owned a hand plane... guess I should look into getting a few... thanks for a starting point.
Literally just bought my first all around plane and it was a 5 1/2 🤟
I really agree. I have the exact two you showcased... the only other is a #4 that I keep for lending out to "friends"
I have seen your videos on youtube and I appreciate your thoughts. It is helpful for me who is just getting a workshop started. I like Rob Cosman too. Thanks for the advise.