Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out on your woodworking journey, having the right tools at your disposal can make all the difference in the world. And when it comes to hand planes, there's a trio of must-haves that every woodworker should have in their toolkit: the low angle block plane, the low angle jack plane, and the router plane.
Let's start by talking about low angle planes and why they're such game-changers in the woodworking world.
Low angle planes are like the Swiss Army knives of woodworking tools. They're incredibly versatile and can handle a wide range of tasks, from smoothing and flattening surfaces to trimming end grain and chamfering edges. But what really sets them apart is their cutting angle.
Unlike traditional bench planes, which have the blade positioned at a steep angle relative to the sole of the plane, low angle planes have the blade set lower. This means less resistance when cutting through the wood, resulting in cleaner cuts and reduced tear-out – especially handy when dealing with challenging grain patterns or highly figured woods.
But here's where it gets even better: low angle planes typically come with interchangeable blades, giving you even more control over the cutting angle. Need to adjust for different wood types or grain orientations? No problemo. Just swap out the blade or tweak its orientation, and you're good to go. It's like having a whole toolbox of planes in one convenient package.
And let's not forget about the bed angle. The lower bed angle of low angle planes makes them more versatile than their higher-angle counterparts. They're better suited for end grain work, trimming, and other tasks where a more aggressive cutting action is required. Plus, the shallower angle allows for easier adjustment of the cutting depth, giving you greater control over the planing process.
So, now that you're sold on the benefits of low angle planes, let's talk about the specific planes you need in your collection.
First up, we've got the low angle block plane. This little gem is perfect for end grain work, chamfering edges, and general smoothing tasks. Its compact size and comfortable grip make it a go-to tool for both small-scale projects and larger pieces. And with its low cutting angle and adjustable mouth, you can expect exceptional performance and control – all without breaking the bank.
Next on the list is the low angle jack plane. This bad boy is the workhorse of the workshop, ideal for flattening and smoothing larger surfaces quickly and efficiently. Its longer sole and adjustable mouth make it perfect for jointing edges, flattening boards, and removing material across the grain. And with its low angle design and high-quality construction, you can trust that the Melbourne Tool Company jack plane will deliver exceptional results every time.
Last but not least, we have the router plane. When it comes to precision joinery and fine-tuning, nothing beats this specialized tool. Whether you're cleaning up dadoes, grooves, or other recesses, the router plane ensures a perfect fit for all your joinery projects. With its precise depth adjustment and comfortable grip, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it.
So there you have it, folks: the trio of hand planes every woodworker needs in their arsenal. Affordable, versatile, and built to last, the low angle block plane, low angle jack plane, and router plane from Melbourne Tool Company are the perfect companions for all your woodworking adventures. Trust us, your projects will thank you for it.
Have questions about choosing the right tools for your woodworking projects? Need advice on which plane is best for a specific task? Don't hesitate to reach out to us! Our team of woodworking experts is here to help you every step of the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, we're dedicated to providing you with the guidance and support you need to make your woodworking dreams a reality.
Happy woodworking, and remember, we're always here to help!
You can checkout our range of hand planes from Melbourne Tool Company here.