Big hands

[Mr T]

Hi

I have recently been trying out a LN 5 1/2 jack plane to see how it compares with my old record planes. My question is; do others find the handles on LN planes are too small for comfort. I am sure if I used the LN for any lenght of time the top of my thimb would be blistered. Perhaps it's just that I have big hands. I also find th adjustment lever is difficult to get at compared to the Record.

Other than that the cut on the LN is remarkable.

Chris

 

[custard]

Chris, I use a LN 5 1/2 as my main plane I've used it for hours straight with no sign of blisters. You're right about the adjuster lever, but like all these things you get used to it pretty quickly and then it's second nature.

 

[PaulO]

Do you use a three finger grip or four? The handles are designed for three, sorry if teaching grandma to suck eggs.

 

[Mr T]

Paul, yes this is with the index finger pointing along the frog. Perhaps it is as Custard says, I just need to get used to it.

 

[bugbear]

I am sure if I used the LN for any length of time the top of my thumb would be blistered.

Can you be precise about where the blister would be? I'm finding it hard to envisage blistering anywhere near the top of my thumb with any tool I own.

BugBear

 

[Mr T]

Hi Bugbear

Perhaps "top of the thumb" is not the best description. I mean top of the thumb when looking at it holding the plane, ie the top of the thumb where it joins the hand. It is also uncomfortable where the little finger is pressed up against the bottom of the handle. Basically the handle is not high enough to fit the knuckle, I must admit I am surprised no one else has agreed about this. My Record no 6 is so much more comfortable to hold.

I have some photographs, just got to work out how to post them.

Chris

 

[Mr T]

Right, first attampt at posting images.

As you can see here its a tight fit the fingers are squeezed in tight.

The top of the handle digs into the hand near the top knuckle of the thumb. Note also the top joint of the thumb pressed up against the back of the blade.

The handle detached. The LN is on the left. You can see that the curves at the top and bottom of the handles are tighter on the Record, this means more room for the fingers.

As I said in my original posting the cut of the LN is v. good, but I think I would be in some discomfort if I used it for a long period. So I don't think I will be going for a Lie Neilsen.

I would like to mention this is a borrowed plane so the condition is not my fault!

Chris

 

[Paul Chapman]

Chris,

It might be worth looking at some other top-end planes because the handles vary a lot from make to make and you might find some that suit you better. With Clifton, which I have, they vary slightly the angle of the handle on some of their planes so as to ensure that there is enough room for the hand to comfortably grip it - I find that even on the little #3 there is plenty of room. Veritas have more upright handles which you might also find better.

Then again, if you particularly like the LN, you could always have a go at making a replacement handle yourself.

Hope this helps.

Cheers :wink:

Paul

 

[bugbear]

Right, first attampt at posting images.

I would like to mention this is a borrowed plane so the condition is not my fault!

Chris

Actually, it's rather refreshing to see a LN so clearly used (I've seen rust before, but it's often from storage!)

BugBear

 

[ivan]

Also with big hands, I often stick my little finger out alongside the body, and keep the index wrapped round the handle. I'd seen folk handle the tiny No. 1 and 2 this way. Gives a bit more room for the skin at the base of the thumb, but does not feel quite so 'natural'. Also keeps the push a bit lower, and I think makes the plane a shade more stable. With 2 positions, you can vary the hold when you get fed up.

 

[Chris Knight]

Chris,

I suggest you make yourself a new handle. It doesn't take very long and you have a pattern in the Record that evidently suits you.