Where to Find a Block Plane
Block planes can be found in
many different tool catalogs and
home improvement warehouses.
They can range in price from $40
to $150 or more. You do get
what you pay for, but for kids to
use, the less expensive ones
make more sense. These planes
can work very well with some
minor adjustments. There are
several good books on tuning a
plane and sharpening blades. I
recommend you check one out at
the library or buy one from your
favorite bookstore.First let me say that the picture in figure 1 is a typical block plane. Every
manufacturer has its own design. The block plane you have may look
somewhat different than the one in figure 1 but the basic operation will
be the same.
Body:
The body is usually made from cast iron because
it’s tough andadds weight to the block plane, which
helps it cut smoother.
Cutter:
The cutter is made from steel, which is ground
to a sharp bevel at the end to shave the wood
fibers as it’s pushed across the wood’s surface.
This makes the long curly pieces of wood.
Lateral Adjustment Lever:
This lever is used to adjust the cutter side to side. Its purpose is to
make sure the sharp bevel that sticks out below the sole of the
plane (the bottom) is parallel to the mouth. (See figure 2)
Fig. 2
Cutter isn’t parallel to mouth Cutter is square and parallel to mouth