Test Drive Five Popular Hand Planes Types

I know that most of us covet that next slick power tool. I’m like that too. But I’ve also come to appreciate hand planes for their ability to make quick work of tasks that can’t be done easily by machine. In this video we take a look at five types of hand planes that are commonly found in wood shops.

By the way, if you’re a regular WoodTreks viewer, you know that usually I’m behind the camera, featuring some of America’s top artisans. But to mix things up, in this video, I step in front of the camera to give this brief overview of these common plane types: 1) the all-purpose Jack Plane, 2) the utility player Block Plane, 3) the invaluable Shoulder Plane, 4) the oft overlook Smoothing Plane, and 5) that sometimes essential Jointer Plane. Now I’ll admit that this is not an official list of the best or most useful planes to own. But it’s a good place to start the conversation. So I’ll agree right up front that these picks are only my opinion (not strongly held BTW). Feel free to pipe in with your thoughts, which I’m sure are equally valid.

For a direct link to this video go to: An Introduction To Five Top Plane Types

For related videos that might be of interest try these too:

1. Use a Smoothing Plane to Prepare Wood For Final Finishing

2. How to Use A Hand Plane

3. How to Tune Up A Hand Plane

-- Keith Cruickshank, www.woodtreks.com - on-demand woodworking videos