Which Block Plane?

[BennyC]

Hi Guys,

I'm currently going into my second year of University studying 'Furniture' at Lincoln.

I have a Stanley No.5, which I am currently fettling with, as I sort of kept putting it off through my first year as I didn't need to use it that much.

However I decided the other day I needed to buy a decent plane as I understand how quality tools can make the job easier and lower frustration and require alot less fettling. I invested in the No.7 Clifton which arrives tomorrow. I also decided to add to my chisel collection (which at current is a set of 6 Red/Yellow Marples split proof handled ones), So 5 LN Bevel Edge Chisels are also arrive too. Seems I got a bit carried away!

Anyway more to the point there is/will be a price hike happening to the majority of tools including Clifton and LN. I have come accross a retailer that is currently offering a price freeze on Lie Nielsen products. So is currently round about Axminster old prices. I figure I am going to eventually end up buying these tools anyway, so might as well save myself a tidy packet and buy them now.

I understand an adjustable mouth low angle block plane would be a valuable addition to my collection. I am correct in saying that low angle is better for tackling end grain with less tear out, but is also capable of doing everything a regular angle block plane can do. And is not meant for just tackling end grain? (still a bit of a newbie in regards to tools)

I have the Lie Nielsen 60-1/2 in my sights:

http://www.lie-nielsen.com/catalog.php?sku=60_5

Can anybody offer advice or answer my suggestions? push me towards something better, or am I right on track and will that suit me perfectly?

If it helps my course is fine timber based furniture, so cabinet making etc etc.

Any help would be great

Thanks

Benny C

 

[WellsWood]

I understand an adjustable mouth low angle block plane would be a valuable addition to my collection. I am correct in saying that low angle is better for tackling end grain with less tear out.....

Benny C

Hi Benny,

Yes on both counts.

You may still get LN and LV stuff at pre increase prices if you're quick and get in before old stock runs out.
Try Workshop Heaven or Classic hand Tools
My personal preferance is for the LV low angle block, it suits me perfectly and has a couple of features the LN version doesn't, a truly wonderful bit of kit.

 

[Ironballs]

To help your finances whilst you decide what are the essential tools you need it might help to get a cheaper plane. I have one of the cheaper block planes from Axminster and once you have it set up properly with a good edge then it planes very well. Was using it to plane a big piece of ash end grain the other day and it lapped it up

 

[Philly]

Benny
The L-N adjustable mouth block is a gem - you'll never need to buy another in your life.
Do yourself a favour,
Philly

 

[shim20]

verita low angle for me

 

[paulm]

I have the LN adjustable mouth version and it's great, but I tend to reach for the LN low angle bronze one the most, get both !!! :lol:

Cheers, Paul

 

[Paul Chapman]

In terms of performance, I think the Veritas low angle and Lie Nielsen low angle are the same. I prefer the Veritas because of the dimensions and the Norris-style adjuster, but that's personal preference. I'd look at them both and see which one you prefer.

Cheers :wink:

Paul

 

[shim20]

what i also like about the veritas is the grub screws in the side, i find these handy and wouldnt be without them now.

 

[Mr Ed]

+1 for the LN 60 1/2 adjustable mouth low angle. I think its a lovely little plane and probably one of my favourites.

I cannot comment on the Veritas; I bought my LN before they came out so have never really looked closely at them. Assuming they are the same quality as the Veritas planes I do own, I am sure they are as good as the LN block planes.

Buy once and buy quality is the best policy in my view, so if you can afford it I would say the choice is either LN or LV.

Ed

 

[Racers]

Hi,

I have a LN 60 1/2 its a fantastic plane only let down by the cap iron, but the David Charlesworth mod (countersinking for the screw) solves that problem, and now my stanley now sits un-used on the shelf.


Pete

 

[dunbarhamlin]

Since the Clifton block is in the what-might-have-been category, the LN 60 1/2 is a great tool. I reach for my toffee hammer to adjust block planes with lateral adjusters - so really don't miss having one on the LN.

Steve

 

[Derek Cohen (Perth Oz)]

When it comes to block planes, it is important to try before you buy. Both the LN and LV LA adjustable mouth block planes are excellent.

I own both and reach for the LN first because I prefer its narrower width. It is more comfortable (for me) to hold. But the LV is better designed, easier to adjust the blade (the adjustment screw is better positioned), and if this one fits your hand, then it is a treat.

Differencs are really only apparent when you use them side-by-side. Which ever you get will be wonderful to use and a head above all else on the market.

Regards from Perth

Derek

 

[Harbo]

I have a LV LA and its great - it was also much cheaper than the LN?

Rod

 

[Smudger]

Just used my LN 60½ on a new window frame in the house in France - the builder had made a surround out of what looks like 18mm PAR ripped down, so the edges had saw marks and were not quite lining up at the corners. It worked beautifully, leaving a glossy finish, and that was with a coarse cut and the mouth opened right up. An excellent tool.