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Block Plane Shootout

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One of the hand planes that you will forever find yourself constantly reaching for is your trusty block plane. Block planes come in various sizes, with various features. Among the most versatile and commonly found are the 60 1/2 and 9 1/2 sized block planes with their adjustable throats and 6-6.5" long bodies, they can handle almost any task you would ask of them. They can be used to chamfer edges, smooth out surfaces, adjust and clean up joinery, and more. But how to choose the best one for yourself? Things to consider: L ow angle or Standard Angle? Nearly all block planes come in one of these two be angles... A standard angle  block plane like the 9 1/2 has the same overall cutting angle as your average bench plane. They are often heavier and make better smoothers. A  low angle block plane like the 60 1/2 has a lower overall cutting angle making it easier to plane end grains. They are often lighter which makes them easier to use in the air. Narrower or wider blade? A narrow...
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Is this Kobalt block plane worthless??

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For many years now, Kobalt has been offering a 6.5” block plane that is essentially a Stanley No 9½ clone. Most budget store brand planes on the market today are criticized for being made too cheaply. Some can be redeemed and made to work. But I had no intention on figuring out if the Kobalt was one of them. That is, until today. This Kobalt plane came to me included in a bundle of block planes that I recently bought. My first thought was “is this Kobalt even worth cleaning up?” My second thought was how many others have wondered the same? So, I decided to document my investigation. Could I toss it in my travel toolbox and trust it when I need it? Pull it out for riskier tasks? Is it worth spending the time to clean it up and sharpen it? Or will it live out it's days holding doors open and making sure that papers don't blow away? Let's find out! So what is the value of a 9½ block as a woodworking tool anyway?…  Well then, the 9½ block plane’s key features are a 6.5" so...
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4 1/2 Large Smoother Hand Plane Shootout

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  For most of my projects, the last bench plane to touch the board is the 4 1/2.  At 2.25" to 2.375" wide, it's blade is only somewhat wider than the #4.  But I find that additional width makes flattening larger boards that much easier.  I am fortunate enough to have several such planes in my shop and decided it was time to do a side-by-side shootout. Let's meet the contestants... Lie Nielsen 4 1/2 This hand plane is maybe the prettiest of the lot.  Lie Nielsen is known for their amazing workmanship.  The machining on this plane is flawless and it is built to be an heirloom tool.  It is the second heaviest plane at 5lbs 6.7oz.  It is also the most expensive at $360.  It is possible to get custom frogs at 50 and 55 degrees at $125.  If you don't live in North America, the VAT on this hand plane can make it even more expensive.  For all of that, this plane comes ready to go out of the box. TayTools 4 1/2 This hand plane is the cheapes...
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