Reply by paratrooper34

Groy87, the tapers you describe on your block plane are normal for some types. I used to have one exactly like that. The only downside to that style body is it is difficult to use them for cleaning up rabbets or other profiles where a 90 degree angle is encountered. But for regular service as a block plane, that style works just fine. Additionally, the pitting you describe won’t affect performance. Just clean it up best you can and put it to use. I have a couple of planes that have some minor pitting left after cleaning them up and it does not affect the performance whatsoever.

Good Luck and hope to see you putting them to use.

-- Mike