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Smoothing Planes

top picks

What’s in the Toolbox

tool

features

options

STANLEY Smoothing Plane No.4 (12-136)

  • Iron of the hand planer for woodworking is made from extra-thick 3.18 mm (1/8u0022)
  • A2 steel for excellent edge retention
  • One piece base and frog of the wood plane virtually eliminate chatter
  • The bench plane has a cherry wood handle and knob for comfort
  • Norris-type adjuster with lateral locking feature
  • Adjustable throat plate for different types of wood
  • Replacement Blade (12-141)

Option 1
1 PACK
(1) Smoothing Plane No.4 (12-136)

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SPEAR and JACKSON Smoothing Plane, Various Options

  • Ideal for cabinet work and general joinery
  • Cast iron body
  • Precision milled base and faces
  • 45mm (1-3/4u0022) wide high carbon steel blade
  • Brass adjusting screw

Option 1
1 PACK
(1) Smoothing Plane Carpenters No. 3 (CSP3)

Option 2
1 PACK
(1) Smoothing Plane Carpenters No. 4 (CSP4)

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EXXO Smoothing Plane No.4 (5360)

  • Perfect for flattening and reducing rough wood thickness
  • Made with high quality, durable material for long lasting use. The hand planer blades are ready for cutting, smoothing and finishing work
  • The solid wood handle provides a contoured grip for easy handling and control
  • Features an adjustable edge which allows users to cut at a wide depth. The adjustable throat plate makes these planers great for different types of wood
  • 50mm (2u0022) cutter blade and a standard body size measuring 230mm (9u0022) in length

Option 1
1 PACK
(1) Smoothing Plane No.4 (5360)

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FAITHFULL Smoothing Plane No.4 with Wooden Box (FAIPLANE4B)

  • Made with a quality grey cast iron body for strength and stability with precision ground base and sides for flatness and squareness
  • Machined seating eliminate movement and blade judder
  • A lever cap with a brass locking screw secures the blade assembly and enables easy release for sharpening
  • A solid brass blade adjustment nut completes the appeal of these traditional tools
  • 5 Year Manufacturers Guarantee

Option 1
1 PACK
(1) Smoothing Plane No.4 (FAIPLANE4B)
(1) Wooden Box

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AMAZON BASICS Smoothing Plane No.4 with Wooden Handles (DS-WPAMZ002)

  • Durable cast iron body provides stability and strength
  • Impact resistant wood handle with contoured grip
  • Durable steel alloy blade makes quality cuts
  • Adjustable gear that allows you to achieve precise results

Option 1
1 PACK
(1) Smoothing Plane No.4 (DS-WPAMZ002)

See Pricing

AMAZON BASICS Smoothing Plane No.4 (DS-WPAMZ001)

  • Durable cast iron body provides stability and strength
  • Impact-resistant plastic handle with contoured grip
  • Durable steel alloy blade makes quality cuts
  • Adjustable gear that allows you to achieve precise results

Option 1
1 PACK
(1) Smoothing Plane No.4 (DS-WPAMZ001)

See Pricing

a Tool for Every Job

Smoothing planes play a critical role in achieving a fine finish on wood surfaces. For tradespersons particularly those specializing in cabinetry, furniture making or detailed woodworking, smoothing planes offer the precision and control necessary to create surfaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally perfect. These tools are designed to remove very thin shavings of wood allowing for the elimination of minor imperfections and achieving a surface that is ready for finishing. The use of a smoothing plane requires skill and a keen eye for detail, attributes that are well honed in professional tradespersons who rely on these tools to deliver high quality results that meet the exacting standards of their clients.

They open up a world of possibilities in home woodworking projects. Whether refurbishing old furniture, building new pieces or engaging in detailed woodworking crafts a smoothing plane provides the ability to achieve professional level finishes. The accessibility of smoothing planes means that even those new to woodworking can develop the skills needed to use them effectively. A smoothing plane is not just a tool but a gateway to learning and mastering the art of fine woodworking. Its application transforms projects from rough amateur efforts into polished refined pieces that reflect care and craftsmanship.

Both tradespersons and DIYers benefit from the versatility and precision of smoothing planes. These tools bridge the gap between rough shaping and final finishing making them essential for any woodworking toolbox.

BUYERS GUIDE

Smoothing Planes

Quality of Materials and Construction:

The first factor to consider is the quality of materials and construction. A high quality smoothing plane is typically made with a body of durable cast iron or high quality steel ensuring it can withstand regular use and maintain its integrity over time. The blade often made from high-carbon steel should be capable of holding a sharp edge for extended periods reducing the need for frequent sharpening.

Blade Sharpness and Adjustability:

Blade sharpness and adjustability are crucial for achieving the fine finishes that smoothing planes are known for. Look for planes with finely adjustable blades allowing you to set the depth of cut with precision. A sharp blade is essential for producing smooth tear free surfaces, so ensure the plane you choose has a reputation for maintaining a sharp edge.

Ergonomics and Comfort:

Comfort and ergonomics play a significant role, especially during extended use. A smoothing plane with a well-designed handle that fits comfortably in your hand will reduce fatigue and improve control. The weight of the plane should be balanced, providing enough heft to glide smoothly over the wood while remaining manageable.
Versatility for Various Tasks

Versatility and Functionality:

While primarily used for finishing surfaces some planes offer additional features such as adjustable mouths which can help control the size of shavings and improve performance on different types of wood. This versatility can enhance your ability to achieve the desired finish on a variety of woodworking projects.

Maintenance and Longevity:

Maintenance is another important aspect to consider. Choose a smoothing plane that is easy to maintain with accessible components for cleaning and sharpening. Proper maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your plane ensuring it remains a reliable tool in your workshop for years to come.

Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews:

Researching the reputation of the brand and reading customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality and performance of a smoothing plane. Established brands known for their craftsmanship and reliability are often a safer choice. Customer reviews can reveal real world experiences highlighting strengths and potential issues with specific models.

UNVEILING THE pros AND conS

Smoothing Planes

pros

  • Smoothing planes are designed to produce exceptionally smooth surfaces. They are ideal for final finishing tasks leaving wood surfaces with a fine polished appearance that often requires minimal sanding. This high level of finish quality is crucial for furniture making, cabinetry and other detailed woodworking projects where aesthetics are important.
  • These planes allow for precise control over the cutting depth which is essential for achieving consistent uniform results. The ability to make fine adjustments ensures that even the smallest imperfections can be smoothed out effectively. This precision is particularly beneficial when working with expensive or delicate wood types.
  • Smoothing planes can handle a wide range of wood types from softwoods to hardwoods. Their sharp blades and adjustable settings make them versatile tools capable of dealing with different grain patterns and wood densities without causing tear out or surface damage.
  • As hand tools, smoothing planes do not require electricity making them convenient for use in any setting including off grid locations. They are also quieter and produce less dust compared to power sanders contributing to a cleaner and more pleasant working environment.
  • Using a smoothing plane is a skill intensive process that connects woodworkers to traditional methods of craftsmanship. This not only enhances the quality of the work but also provides a deeper sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.

cons

  • Effective use of a smoothing plane requires a significant amount of skill and practice. Beginners might struggle to achieve the desired results without proper training and experience. Mastering the technique of using a smoothing plane involves understanding blade adjustments, pressure application and wood grain orientation.
  • Compared to power tools, smoothing planes can be slower especially for large surfaces or extensive projects. The process of manually smoothing wood requires patience and can be time consuming making it less suitable for high volume production environments.
  • Using a smoothing plane involves physical effort which can be tiring over long periods. This is particularly true when working with harder woods or larger pieces. Continuous use can lead to hand and arm fatigue potentially affecting the quality of work if the user becomes tired.
  • Keeping a smoothing plane in optimal condition requires regular maintenance including sharpening the blade. This maintenance demands additional time and skill and failing to keep the blade sharp can result in subpar performance and rough finishes.
  • High quality smoothing planes can be expensive representing a significant initial investment. While they are durable and long lasting the upfront cost might be a barrier for hobbyists or those new to woodworking.