I started with a stanley handyman and 100% thought it was my fault not knowing what i was doing until I bought a woodriver plane and could instantly feel the difference. I agree buy a plane that works .
With the exception of my Veritas Apron Plane (which I love), all of my planes are vintage Stanley and Record planes. Some are from the late 19th century. All were carefully restored, and are as functional today as the day they were made.
I have an old Handyman that my dad passed along to me many years ago. I did restore it last year, but found it to be exactly as you did, Rob: it’s just not good enough to bother with. But I decided to grind a radius on the iron and turned it into a scrub plane, and it works very well in that role.
Great review again. The Handyman is the same as with the Amazon Basics one - to fix either of them properly, you have to spend more on tools that a better plane costs. Not to mention the time and effort that should be used using the plane!
"Absolutely not! When we shut the camera that is going to the garbage!" - A very honest and completely accurate description of the Amazon company and their products.
@@RobCosmanWoodworking I notice that your sharpening mat is AmazonBasics, would you care to share the link or description of that product? Would love to get the proper size and fit mat but I have ordered one of the AmazonBasics silicon dog dish mats and it seems too large. Thank you for all the knowledge you provide!
It reminds me of how many years I thought my instinctive archery technique was my issue, when it turns out I wasn't matching my equipment properly...thanks Easton (Stanley).
Bought a cheap footprint handplane from home hardware 2 years ago when I was getting started thinking I can tune it. After 6 months of use I checked it and it needed tuning again so I bought my self a Veritas for my birthday. All my troubles went away.
Thanks for this, very educational to see you wrestle to get any good shaving from that handyman. I bought and ‘restored’ one for $10 and struggle to get continuous thin shavings, seeing you go through the same struggle I now realize that this isn’t my amateur restoring skills or dullness, but in fact poor design and I can forget about making it work. Its a shame I put so much time into that plane, but it’s going to leave in the garbage bin.
Rob that is an excellent video. Watching you jump your way thru and listening to these planes just confirms what I thought. I have a number of lie Nielsen’s and two bedrocks. Totally different. I would call these planes next years’s Toyota’s!
I’m one of those who didn’t think I’d find a use for a plane but was curious enough to buy an ultra cheap one to play with. It was the Harbor Freight “Windsor” design for $13. I thoroughly sharpened it and soon found out how useful it was. So I “upgraded” and got a Stanley Sweetheart #4. Again, I’m finding how incredibly useful a hand plane can be for a variety of things in my part-time hobbyist shop. So now my Wood River 5-1/2 has been ordered, although on backorder until who knows when. I am now a true believer 😁
@@RobCosmanWoodworking Hopefully things are finally sorting themselves out. I waited over six months for some back-saws that were ordered for Christmas. The "expected on" dates just kept passing by and being updated. More recently, I got some sharpening gear and only had it slip the date once - took a month to come through instead of the 2 days. Oddly though, silicon resin molds seem to be like hen's teeth - they're slipping so much I'm thinking of ordering them now to hopefully have them as a gift for someone at Christmas. It's not just Woodcraft though ... every manufacturer has been having problems.
@@RobCosmanWoodworking Just got an update on my order from Woodcraft today. Now it's backordered until December 10th! I suppose I'll need to move to Canada to get one.
I just had my Handyman apart, and I must have learned something from you, because I found myself remarking, “I bet that would work better if where the frog meets the sole were milled,” and, “I bet that would work better if the frog were milled on the blade bed,” and, “the only two blade settings seem to be too much or not enough.”
I inherited some old tools from and uncle and the Stanly Handyman is one. Due to my stubbornness, I keep trying to make this piece of crap work and sadly it doesn't bring any joy. Thanks a bunch for validating my frustrations Rob!
"A polished turd is still a turd". Heard before, many times, but somehow I never thought from the lips of Mr Cosman. I have had to pause at 8:48 because it made me laugh so much.
The first thing I do when I restore a Handyman plane, or any other with a painted frog seat is to use a sharp (but cheap) chisel and scraper to scrape off the paint. If needed afterward, the seat can be greatly improved after just a few minutes (or less) with a file. The real difference between the Handyman and the Basics is the materials they're made of. While the Stanley has the bones to make a decent, though very basic user. The Amazon one with its pot metal parts really doesn't.
I'm really enjoying these comparison videos. Have you ever done a video reviewing the planes from busybee? I purchased one of those as my first plane, and I don't know if it's just my inexperience, but I am not a big fan of it.
After wstching this video i hsve a comment and a question. First the comment. I always find your videos to be very honest and helpful. I have improved my woodworking by applying your techniques . Thank you. Next the question. I am a retired architect and try to take my woodworking hobby the next level and improve my tools as i go. What plane manufacturer would you suggest i look at for a "good" quality plane. Keep in mind i do have a retiree's budget. I have an old Stanley Bailey No.5 from an estate sale that i am trying to put back in working order but still not getting the results i want. Thank you again for your dedication to to craft and as a veteran i appreciate your Wounded Warriors support.
WoodRiver is the value brand I recommend. Save money by only getting the planes tou need. A 5-1/2 will do 85% of your planing tasks. Then a block with those two you can do almost everything
Watching you struggle with these two inferior planes made me smile. It was as if I were watching myself back when I was trying to learn how to use hand tools after many years of roughing machines and sandpaper. I started watching you about a year and a half ago and I'm proud to say that because of you and your videos, I can now use hand tools in my projects with neither fear nor anger. Thank you, Rob Cosman!
Ive seen on ebay there is a tool brand from India called anant that looks interesting. Apparently its only available in the UK but it would be interesting to see how good they are.
I will say, the Handyman does have *one* piece of solid utility - it makes for a monster scrub plane. It's light. It's cheap. You can abuse it and not feel bad. The crappy lever-cap doesn't matter if you're just hogging off wood, nor does the chip-breaker. The mouth is already gaping and only needs a slight adjustment with a mill file to get it to size. The soul doesn't even have to be super flat. None of the vibrations or other garbage matter one whit if you're using it for a scrub. Radius the blade, open up the mouth, and stick it on the shelf and it'll last you a good long while.
Hi Rob, you've covered cheap (in both senses of the word) planes in this video, and in previous videos you've covered premium planes like the WoodRiver. What about the middle ground? What would you recommend for someone who is primarily a power tool hobby woodworker, who wants a good plane, but can't justify the price of a premium plane (the Wood River 5½ is over $600 shipped in Australia, and the Lie-Nielsen 5½ even more). Maybe a video comparing a couple of options that fall into the middle ground.
@@RobCosmanWoodworking What I've been able to find within Australia are (from least to most expensive): • Groz (#5) • Irwin Record (#5) • Stanley Professional (#5) • Luban (#5½) • HNT Gordon (~#4½) (wooden bodied, tool steel blade) • Stanley Professional (#6) • HNT Gordon (~#4½) (wooden bodied, HSS blade) Veritas and Clifton are in the same premium price range as Wood River and Lie-Nielsen. The Luban seems to be the only mid-range #5½ plane being sold in Australia, so I guess that pretty much answers the question. The comparison you did between the #6 Luban and Wood River a few weeks ago would suggest that the Luban is a good plane, and Down Under it has a significant price advantage over the Wood River (it's about half the price). Problem solved. Thanks for the assistance.
I've been buying and selling old tools ever since I was 16 years old when I started driving. I never liked the Stanley Handyman planes I'm assuming because I never saw them sell. I didn't have a reason to not like them because I never actually picked one up.... But now I know why! Terrible planes for sure!
I have older #3 Handyman that seats decently. It is comparable to an even older #3 Baily. However, the Baily is easier to adjust. I think you got a much newer Handyman. A new user wouldn't be able to tell the difference or fix it.
We really hope so. we have our fingers crossed that the border will open up to hold the SEP and OCT classes and if so we will try and add two more classes too
Woodrivers aren't quality, it's just they aren't junk. There's a difference. They would probably be classed as semi-premium. They have a history of quality control issues as pretty much everything made in China does. Blades seem to be hit and miss. If you get a good one, they are a deal. If you get a bad one, then it's still way better than the junk up above, but they can chatter and the blades are known to slip. At the same time, if you really want quality, you'll be paying a lot more than the 200 that Woodriver wants.
Can’t shine too bright a light on your observation that buying a junk tool when you are starting out as a way to avoid wasting money means you will not succeed (I paraphrase). A false economy. Don’t need “the best”, but do need something serviceable. Actually see it all the time with kids starting out on a musical instrument. Parents, not sure if kid will stick with it, buy a cheap instrument (even less expensive than a rent to own plan). Guarantees the kid will NOT stick with it. Same for sports equipment. Thanks for your comment - and the video. (Yes, this is a hot button!)
I never realized how bad those Handyman planes were. I think adding a vintage Bailey of the same size to the review would have been helpful to show people the difference between that and the Handyman line. I've bought a number of old #4 and #5 Baileys at yard sales and flea markets for less than $30 and online auctions for under $75 that are much better performers than that Handyman.
I just happened upon a block plane, a #6, #5 and they were in excellent condition. The only real problem is broken rear totes. The #6 was missing about the top 1/3 of the tote and the #5 was cracked in half. I’m working on getting a replacement made now. Depending on how this goes, I’ll either make another or buy 2😂
The Handyman was probably fine for its intended use, a homeowner tool to shave a sticking door or window down. I think everyone's dad had one in the garage or basement. Not a tool for making a good, smooth surface but rather a tool for making a piece of wood smaller.
@@RobCosmanWoodworking I can see bargain hunters being very disappointed in one of these. In the end it really pays to buy the best you can afford even if it is just one plane rather than a whole array of budget tools, none of which will perform and only discourage one from progressing. Really enjoy your content and all that you put into this. Thank you
@@RobCosmanWoodworking I just bought one, and did not realize what it was. But it can be a decent scrub plane! Worst problem is that the lever wont move the blade much. It needs to be replaced. But I agree it's not intended for fine wood work. th-cam.com/video/tv3lDDNI-lQ/w-d-xo.html Mine is painted grey, and the surface where the blade sits is actually planed smooth.
oh crap. I bought a Bailey #4 (dated 1902) to restore, which is higher quality than the handyman, but still. I also bought a Stanley 220 block plane to restore. I also bought a Millers Falls 14C to restore, although this one is in significantly better condition than the others. I plan on using all these planes, so I hope I didn't waste my money being nostalgic. Already spent the last year restoring an old Walker - Turner table saw. Thanks for the insight, Rob!
Rats! I wish I had watched this _two weeks ago_ ... I am really surprised that Stanley could not turn all of its knowhow and resources into an economical plane that works well. I just picked up a couple of *Handyman* #4 size planes. One of them will actually plane softwood, and I may keep it if I can set it up for rough work/household tasks. The second plane, which closely resembles the one you looked at, cannot be made to plane: the blade cannot be adjusted far enough downward to project through the opening in the sole. WTF. Oddly, this plane came with a steel spacer that sits below the frog and elevates it even further so that the blade is even further from the opening. Double WTF. I have made it my mission to remove the paint and excess metal on the frog and its base. I hope to get it working so that the plane will function. I put a _vintage_ blade/chip breaker on the plane that actually works, and the plane worked better than with its own iron/breaker. So... the blade/chip breaker is probably the main weakness, but the haphazard design of the newer planes also seems to contribute to the inferior performance.
Let's be honest, both of these planes are made "cheap and cheerful" for the DIYer, for the odd job like planning down a door (made of pine) and were never intended for the craftsmen, they were capable, just, to do the job they were intended for. And no, I'd never buy either.
but not all handyman's are created equal I've actually bought 2 early model woodriver that were junk too but i do have to admit after you showed them what was wrong with the woodriver planes it turned out to be a pretty dog on good plane
Good video Rob! I have a Stanley Handyman #4 size that I filed the mouth open and rounded the corners on the iron, made for a very functional scrub plane.
It's the sound from the Stanley that I recognize. My father had one exactly like what you showed and spent hours trying to plane wood for different projects with it, never could get it quite right, no matter what he tried. In the end, he opted to use a sander and left the plane to gather dust. Thank you for the reality check. I'll definitely keep my Dad's plane as a memento but will save up to buy an effective tool. I really wish my father would have had access to the information you're sharing, he would have loved it. Thanks you, I feel fortunate that I can learn from you.
Have the handyman and it sucks for the most part..and understand this is a woodworking chanel . But handyman would work in a carpentry situation..just say you need to fix a sticking door or something..it will do just fine for that
I've had the same experience with the Handyman line of Stanley. My used plane was not as bad in the surface to surface contact but the cutting results duplicated your results, maybe a little better as I spent more time that I should have to stabilize things. It seems to be more apparent with the #3 size. I have an old Parplus plane that does surprisingly well. It has a fixed frog, meaning that it is part of the sole casting and in my case it is true to the plane. I did purchase a 5-1/2 Woodriver and yes, like going from a Model T to a Lexus and for that I thank you.
Well there is good stuff out there, and Stanley made some very good planes but even they made a piece of crap to sell for nothing knowing that folks are price sensitive and will buy it because its cheap.
I recently rehabbed a no. 4 Handyman that I picked up at a flea market for $8. The frog would never seat reliably at all. The slots on the screws for the tote, knob and chip breaker were all too shallow for a standard screwdriver and were partially chewed up from prior users trying to adjust it. After recutting the slots and filing down/flattening the mating surfaces on the frog and the base I was able to make it into a serviceable scrub plane. I would never try to do anything else with one. That plane has some bad juju.
I've bought everything from #3 to #7 planes on Ebay, all used & either early Stanley or Bailey. I look past the surface rust & cosmetic issues & the most I've ever spent is £35/$50US. Had one "froggy" frog on a Stanley #4 which took 20 minutes to clean up on diamond stones. Can't see the point in buying modern, or even 50yo "budget" planes.
@@zacsuth You're right Zac. Prices sky rocketed during the pandemic. I notice they are starting to cool off though. I'm with Gargler. I have every Bailey Type 11 except a 1 and a smooth 8 all bought within the last 5 years. I spent a bit on the 2c and 120 on the 2. The 8c was 85. The 7s were in the 70s. The 4 1/2 was 40 and the 4 1/2 c was 60. The 5 1/2c was 50 and the 5 1/2 was 65. The 3s, 4s, 5s and 6s were all under 50 bucks. The 3s and 4s were in the 20s and the 4c was actually 18 bucks. The 5s were in the 30s. The 6s were 40 ish. You can't sniff those prices post-pandemic.
@@lawrencedeleurere4427 true! Hopefully the tools start dropping again like lumber has begun to. I want to get involved, but man, this has not been the year.
I don't know if I like these "comparison series". What is this Amazon thing? Your channel has always been particular about craftsmanship, is it becoming commercial-related? I have the impression that you are going towards what all other woodworking channels are, and I don't know if I like it. Just my personal thoughts.
I'm guessing Rob has received a bunch of requests to look at cheap planes and evaluate if they're worth buying and using. I think he's made a persuasive case that they're a waste of effort and folks should save up for a better tool.
@@bmedicky I understand this, and honestly I have appreciated that he gives a fair opinion about tested tools. I simply don't feel he should shoot series on this but just reply in comments, eventually and if possible. This to avoid becoming an opinionist. If he stated "My tools are the best you can buy for that price" maybe he could just stay on this. If the tools are good, this must be enough. The less you spend the more you spend. I have purchased a 5 1/2 with prep service and with the adjustar (a must have!!! The greatest last innovation in the field of hand planes!!!) and a secondary dovetail saw; I'm very happy with both of them and I wouldn't ask "please give me alternatives". That's his proposal, you can stay with that or look elsewhere (just my personal thought). Cheers!
There are plenty of pre-WWII planes on E-bay to purchase. I have a #5 and #7 that I fixed up. They work great with a new and thicker blade. What Rob has shown you is that no matter the era it makes sense to spend a little extra to get the quality. I've fallen into the trap of purchasing cheap only to realize I wasted my money.
I really celebrate your opinion. I'm from Germany and unfortunately I am not able to get stuff from your shop. Fortunately we have some good woodworking shops (I will not post any names) and I can really sign your conclusion: simply get get best tools you can afford. I am actually a great fan of JUUMA planes. As written on the homepage of that shop: 'Juuma closes the big gap between cheap tools and highend hardware' - which I can really confirm. If you can get them in your area I'd like to know your thoughts about those. I really like them... (And the cheap ones I tried first are on their their last trip - for recycling)
Unfortunately, in many countries line mine (hello from Peru), these Stanley handyman like version are commonplace. They sell it as Stanley global version. The highest "quality" we can find here somewhat easily are the Bailey version for around 75USD for a #4, but only corrugated. Not sure how the new Bailey compare to the older ones though. There is no Veritas, no Woodriver, no Lie Nielsen... not even Luban. People buy Bailey and tune it to make them work properly. This means, no luck for new comers to woodworking. The hand plane is less and less used unfortunately. Many modern woodworkers replace planes with grinders with sandpaper (no kidding)
I purchased a budget plane from home depot. It was an absolute pos out of the box. I may add that I knew absolutely NOTHING about hand planes. It was practically falling apart. The only redeeming quality was that all the mating surfaces for the frog were acceptable. I was going to return it but decided it was going to be a good learning experience on how to work/maintain and repair these tools considering I was and am really adamant about learing to work with hand tools I tore the whole thing down, cleaned up the body and even sharpened the blade with nothing but 180 grit sandpaper and some aeresol silicone lubricant. Let me tell you.. out of the box, this thing was a paper weight.. the bevel in the iron was cupped.. not cambered but cupped.. it also looked like it had been smacked with a screwdriver. The cap iron was only making contact in a total of 10mm worth of span across the iron. The depth adjuster wouldn't set the blade correctly because the screw that attaches the cap iron to the cutting iron was hitting the yolk that comes up through the frog and the area in the top of the frog where that very same screw is supposed to sit wasn't cast properly. After a couple hours, lots of sweat, swearing and watching paul sellers, james wright and others videos, I was able to shave hairs off of my leg and get shavings so thin and consistent that I could literally read through them when I laid them over something with text. I turned a pos into a working tool and I'm proud of it. The only weird thing I have noticed is that I need my cap iron further back from the bevel. Not a 32nd but more like between 1/16th-1/8th or else I will jump, skip and leave horrible marring on the piece like the Stanley did on the cherry. I recently acquired some free hardwood that was all covered in old finish including some ebony that I originally thought was walnut with a tinted shelac and the plane did just fine getting past the finish and taking a couple light surface layers to expose the beautiful raw grains.
Rob.....wondering if you have evaluated the Bridge City Tool Works planes? They are elegant, but pricey. I am more interested in performance and durability than looks.
I've tried to bring back 5 or 6 planes like these....they all sit on a shelf. Woodriver is the best bang for the buck, I have a few lie nielsen tools, they are tremendous, some IBC products, tremendous. Buy Once, and never think twice. Good tools can be and will be passed on, cheap is hard to give away at times.
You got chatter because you did flatten the soul. I watch a guy turn that same plane into something that cuts as good as a Lee Nelson. Now it was a lot of work, but it could be done. The reason someone like me buys something like that is because we can't afford better, but also need to learn. But also diy'ers know that we can make them work. That is why we watch videos on things that we already own, to learn more about them. And I have learned a lot of what to do to make it better. I would rather fix it then pay that kind of money.
Wish i saw this sooner. I recently spent a few hours flattening the bottom of my number 5 handyman. Then it still wouldnt cut well so I re did the bevel on the blade becausd it wouldnt dig in. I think it was almost 45 degrees before. I can get a light shaving, but never a full pass length. Also the lateral adjuster only pushes the blade in one direction. It never cut on end grain, no matter of light of a shaving or sharp the blade. The skipping you had on cherry looks like what i get all the time. Like you said, i thought it was just my technique. Im much more seriously considering getting a high quality plane now.
Rob, maybe a video on what it would take to get them both into a good a working order as possible. Although I’m trying to do better work and your videos help tremendously, I just can’t drop $250 on the wood River unit. But I can afford $50 or so for a used Stanley in decent shape.
Thanks for doing these videos, I’ve seen way too many negative comments on the price of well made products, you typically get what you pay for, and when you continue to refine something the costs start becoming exponential. Better tools make the job easier and are a joy to work with.
Has the choice of an Handyman and Bailey. I took the bailey because i heard it is a better „class“ of planes. Knowing the issues with the handyman im happy to took the bailey as an beginner :)
You can hear the difference by just the sounds that the plane makes. It was so satisfying when you used your wood river plane. You were using wall art to plane wood in that video. Great information and teaching moment. Thanks as always.
The Handyman and Defiance ranges are a mixed bag ... you want to pick up a box full at a garage sale for 30 bucks and use them to make one or two good ones. But they're not all &^$% either. The first plane I ever bought (instead of borrowed) was a Handyman back in the 70's and I still have it and it's plain cardboard box (cost me, I think, about $20 new). Plastic tote, knob, and adjuster. Lever cap "Handyman" printed on an adhesive label. No throat adjusting screw, etc. Should be a piece of junk. Yet I'm as likely to reach for it as my 100 year old Stanley Bailey #4 for medium removal (not smoothing and not fore-plane work). Wouldn't use it for smoothing, but it's great for that stage in dimensioning when you want more finesse than a scrub plane. My son found a Defiance #3 for about $25 last year, which he tuned up a little (sole, blade, chip-breaker and some rust removal only). Also low on features, but you can't beat it for smoothing small pieces of work or softwood like SPF trim. But generally, I agree that it's worth spending the extra for a decent starter.
Hey Col. Shealy, looks like your out $27 bucks. Wish the border would open up, as I would like to visit NB and see your shop Professor Cos. Too darn old to take your class, would wear me out. Semper Fi boys
So is the '30 seconds to sharp' video which was mentioned actually called 'Sharpening A Plane Blade 2020' and here th-cam.com/video/okLIEoz00v0/w-d-xo.html?
yeah I've got a cheaper old Stanley and it does the same exact thing, at first I thought it was me and no matter what I did the Stanley wouldn't work on anything harder than poplar and it was very discouraging, but after years of honing my skills and using lie nielsen planes i finally realized the only thing a cheap plane is good for is occasional light work in pine. ITS Better to save and buy a premium plane First so you know what a plane SHOULD feel like, then the only thing left to blame is yourself:)
Would Woodriver planes be a good place to start if I'm looking for a nice balance between cost and quality? Or should I "Buy once, cry once" with a better brand?
For many years I have used Record/Stanley planes, Record preferred. I have a collection of some high end planes. As a result of Robs influence I have purchased some new planes. It makes a world of difference, the better quality plan with the wax on the sole the effort is reduced. The experience is overwhelming. At the price of good timber! Close your eyes dig into the bottom of you pocket once, then open your eyes to see a new sun rise.
there are plenty of old good planes out there! before i treated myself to veritas planes, i used a National #7(st thomas, ontario), a millers falls smoother and a stanley 9 1/2 block. all were flea market finds up here in ontario and work very well. we will be in NB in august, we'll drop in and say hi!
Some of the finest furniture in history was made using wooden bodied planes. There seems to be a cultish hype about planes that I don't get. I am just as likely to grab one of my old Stanley's as I am to pick up a Lie Nielsen, if the blade is sharp and adjusted I'm good to go. Even my old wooden bodied planes, same thing. I've got wooden bodied planes made by my great great grandfather that are still good to go.
@@areuaware6842 I served my apprenticeship as a shipwright and wooden jacks and hand planes were what we used because they did the best job, at fairing planks and hulls. Steel planes were used for joinery work. It's like comparing apples and pears.
I know this might be expensive for you to do in a meaningful way, but if it's ever possible it would be great to see you compare the Wood River planes to the Clifton planes that Woodcraft also carries.
I have a Stanley plane with the 2 piece yoke...endlessly frustrating because to get the plane to take a decent shaving the lever cap has to be very tight and when I try to advance the blade the 2 piece yoke splays over the adjuster wheel...no such issues with my Wood River.
Watch Rob's review of the amazon basics plane here: th-cam.com/video/uppfymCdlJI/w-d-xo.html
I started with a stanley handyman and 100% thought it was my fault not knowing what i was doing until I bought a woodriver plane and could instantly feel the difference. I agree buy a plane that works .
Cheap doesn't mean you are getting a good deal!
With the exception of my Veritas Apron Plane (which I love), all of my planes are vintage Stanley and Record planes. Some are from the late 19th century. All were carefully restored, and are as functional today as the day they were made.
Wow what a difference when you used your own plane from the rack , incredible !
I have an old Handyman that my dad passed along to me many years ago. I did restore it last year, but found it to be exactly as you did, Rob: it’s just not good enough to bother with. But I decided to grind a radius on the iron and turned it into a scrub plane, and it works very well in that role.
It makes a good scrub plane
Great review again. The Handyman is the same as with the Amazon Basics one - to fix either of them properly, you have to spend more on tools that a better plane costs. Not to mention the time and effort that should be used using the plane!
"Absolutely not! When we shut the camera that is going to the garbage!" - A very honest and completely accurate description of the Amazon company and their products.
At least for the plane
@@RobCosmanWoodworking I notice that your sharpening mat is AmazonBasics, would you care to share the link or description of that product? Would love to get the proper size and fit mat but I have ordered one of the AmazonBasics silicon dog dish mats and it seems too large. Thank you for all the knowledge you provide!
@@millerma27 I bought it so long ago that I don’t even remember what size it was. All I know is that it was a 2-pack.
Thanks Rob, you can definitely hear the difference, I agree. Keep on smiling.
Thanks for watching
Seeing those planes in action , makes me appreciate the newer stanley planes with the plastic handels , after some tuning thay work just fine 🤔 .
Thanks for watching and commenting
@@RobCosmanWoodworking In contrary , thank u mr rob , I always loved & appreciate your videos 👌 .
It reminds me of how many years I thought my instinctive archery technique was my issue, when it turns out I wasn't matching my equipment properly...thanks Easton (Stanley).
Bought a cheap footprint handplane from home hardware 2 years ago when I was getting started thinking I can tune it. After 6 months of use I checked it and it needed tuning again so I bought my self a Veritas for my birthday. All my troubles went away.
Thanks for this, very educational to see you wrestle to get any good shaving from that handyman. I bought and ‘restored’ one for $10 and struggle to get continuous thin shavings, seeing you go through the same struggle I now realize that this isn’t my amateur restoring skills or dullness, but in fact poor design and I can forget about making it work. Its a shame I put so much time into that plane, but it’s going to leave in the garbage bin.
Rob that is an excellent video. Watching you jump your way thru and listening to these planes just confirms what I thought. I have a number of lie Nielsen’s and two bedrocks. Totally different. I would call these planes next years’s Toyota’s!
I’m one of those who didn’t think I’d find a use for a plane but was curious enough to buy an ultra cheap one to play with. It was the Harbor Freight “Windsor” design for $13. I thoroughly sharpened it and soon found out how useful it was. So I “upgraded” and got a Stanley Sweetheart #4. Again, I’m finding how incredibly useful a hand plane can be for a variety of things in my part-time hobbyist shop.
So now my Wood River 5-1/2 has been ordered, although on backorder until who knows when. I am now a true believer 😁
Woodcraft tells us to expect the 5-1/2s in July so it might not be much more of a wait
@@RobCosmanWoodworking Hopefully things are finally sorting themselves out.
I waited over six months for some back-saws that were ordered for Christmas. The "expected on" dates just kept passing by and being updated. More recently, I got some sharpening gear and only had it slip the date once - took a month to come through instead of the 2 days. Oddly though, silicon resin molds seem to be like hen's teeth - they're slipping so much I'm thinking of ordering them now to hopefully have them as a gift for someone at Christmas.
It's not just Woodcraft though ... every manufacturer has been having problems.
@@RobCosmanWoodworking Just got an update on my order from Woodcraft today. Now it's backordered until December 10th! I suppose I'll need to move to Canada to get one.
I just had my Handyman apart, and I must have learned something from you, because I found myself remarking, “I bet that would work better if where the frog meets the sole were milled,” and, “I bet that would work better if the frog were milled on the blade bed,” and, “the only two blade settings seem to be too much or not enough.”
I inherited some old tools from and uncle and the Stanly Handyman is one. Due to my stubbornness, I keep trying to make this piece of crap work and sadly it doesn't bring any joy. Thanks a bunch for validating my frustrations Rob!
"A polished turd is still a turd". Heard before, many times, but somehow I never thought from the lips of Mr Cosman. I have had to pause at 8:48 because it made me laugh so much.
Always thought is way me..nice to know big part was the plane...thanks
The first thing I do when I restore a Handyman plane, or any other with a painted frog seat is to use a sharp (but cheap) chisel and scraper to scrape off the paint. If needed afterward, the seat can be greatly improved after just a few minutes (or less) with a file. The real difference between the Handyman and the Basics is the materials they're made of. While the Stanley has the bones to make a decent, though very basic user. The Amazon one with its pot metal parts really doesn't.
I'm really enjoying these comparison videos. Have you ever done a video reviewing the planes from busybee? I purchased one of those as my first plane, and I don't know if it's just my inexperience, but I am not a big fan of it.
After wstching this video i hsve a comment and a question. First the comment. I always find your videos to be very honest and helpful. I have improved my woodworking by applying your techniques . Thank you.
Next the question. I am a retired architect and try to take my woodworking hobby the next level and improve my tools as i go. What plane manufacturer would you suggest i look at for a "good" quality plane. Keep in mind i do have a retiree's budget. I have an old Stanley Bailey No.5 from an estate sale that i am trying to put back in working order but still not getting the results i want.
Thank you again for your dedication to to craft and as a veteran i appreciate your Wounded Warriors support.
WoodRiver is the value brand I recommend. Save money by only getting the planes tou need. A 5-1/2 will do 85% of your planing tasks. Then a block with those two you can do almost everything
Watching you struggle with these two inferior planes made me smile. It was as if I were watching myself back when I was trying to learn how to use hand tools after many years of roughing machines and sandpaper. I started watching you about a year and a half ago and I'm proud to say that because of you and your videos, I can now use hand tools in my projects with neither fear nor anger. Thank you, Rob Cosman!
Ive seen on ebay there is a tool brand from India called anant that looks interesting. Apparently its only available in the UK but it would be interesting to see how good they are.
Yep , anant used a lot among carpenters in my country ( egypt ) and fair price planes too 🤔 .
I am very skeptical about it, but we need to do a test
I will say, the Handyman does have *one* piece of solid utility - it makes for a monster scrub plane. It's light. It's cheap. You can abuse it and not feel bad. The crappy lever-cap doesn't matter if you're just hogging off wood, nor does the chip-breaker. The mouth is already gaping and only needs a slight adjustment with a mill file to get it to size. The soul doesn't even have to be super flat. None of the vibrations or other garbage matter one whit if you're using it for a scrub. Radius the blade, open up the mouth, and stick it on the shelf and it'll last you a good long while.
Hi Rob, you've covered cheap (in both senses of the word) planes in this video, and in previous videos you've covered premium planes like the WoodRiver. What about the middle ground? What would you recommend for someone who is primarily a power tool hobby woodworker, who wants a good plane, but can't justify the price of a premium plane (the Wood River 5½ is over $600 shipped in Australia, and the Lie-Nielsen 5½ even more). Maybe a video comparing a couple of options that fall into the middle ground.
What do you have access to over there?
@@RobCosmanWoodworking What I've been able to find within Australia are (from least to most expensive):
• Groz (#5)
• Irwin Record (#5)
• Stanley Professional (#5)
• Luban (#5½)
• HNT Gordon (~#4½) (wooden bodied, tool steel blade)
• Stanley Professional (#6)
• HNT Gordon (~#4½) (wooden bodied, HSS blade)
Veritas and Clifton are in the same premium price range as Wood River and Lie-Nielsen.
The Luban seems to be the only mid-range #5½ plane being sold in Australia, so I guess that pretty much answers the question. The comparison you did between the #6 Luban and Wood River a few weeks ago would suggest that the Luban is a good plane, and Down Under it has a significant price advantage over the Wood River (it's about half the price). Problem solved.
Thanks for the assistance.
I just bought a Stanley Handeyman from an antique shop for $15, but I really thought it would be great for a spare set of handles. 😂 I was wrong
Question: Does hand planing wood against the grain dull a blade faster than going with the grain
Not in my experience
Actually, I've had really good results with that Amazon Basics plane.......for removing skin tags.............
The theme of this channel is High Standards, Precision and Attention to Detail.
Yes it is
Proves a point Rob you get what you pay for 🤷♂️
I agree 100%
I've been buying and selling old tools ever since I was 16 years old when I started driving. I never liked the Stanley Handyman planes I'm assuming because I never saw them sell. I didn't have a reason to not like them because I never actually picked one up.... But now I know why! Terrible planes for sure!
great video thanks for sharing
Thanks for watching and commenting
I have older #3 Handyman that seats decently. It is comparable to an even older #3 Baily. However, the Baily is easier to adjust. I think you got a much newer Handyman. A new user wouldn't be able to tell the difference or fix it.
Tanks for watching and commenting
I want a wood river…. Quality Quality Quality… see you in August.. Will you be having any classes?
We really hope so. we have our fingers crossed that the border will open up to hold the SEP and OCT classes and if so we will try and add two more classes too
Woodrivers aren't quality, it's just they aren't junk. There's a difference. They would probably be classed as semi-premium. They have a history of quality control issues as pretty much everything made in China does. Blades seem to be hit and miss. If you get a good one, they are a deal. If you get a bad one, then it's still way better than the junk up above, but they can chatter and the blades are known to slip. At the same time, if you really want quality, you'll be paying a lot more than the 200 that Woodriver wants.
Can’t shine too bright a light on your observation that buying a junk tool when you are starting out as a way to avoid wasting money means you will not succeed (I paraphrase). A false economy. Don’t need “the best”, but do need something serviceable. Actually see it all the time with kids starting out on a musical instrument. Parents, not sure if kid will stick with it, buy a cheap instrument (even less expensive than a rent to own plan). Guarantees the kid will NOT stick with it. Same for sports equipment. Thanks for your comment - and the video. (Yes, this is a hot button!)
Great analogy
It is soooo important to use high quality Tools!
Thats my oppinon
spoiler alert, he's not going to like either
Haha, you were so annoyed by the end you could barely talk.
What is more annoying than crap passed off as acceptable?
I never realized how bad those Handyman planes were. I think adding a vintage Bailey of the same size to the review would have been helpful to show people the difference between that and the Handyman line. I've bought a number of old #4 and #5 Baileys at yard sales and flea markets for less than $30 and online auctions for under $75 that are much better performers than that Handyman.
I just happened upon a block plane, a #6, #5 and they were in excellent condition. The only real problem is broken rear totes. The #6 was missing about the top 1/3 of the tote and the #5 was cracked in half. I’m working on getting a replacement made now. Depending on how this goes, I’ll either make another or buy 2😂
That sound comparison was absolutely gold! Things like that are so helpful when you're new and learning. Absolutely loved this movie.
The Handyman was probably fine for its intended use, a homeowner tool to shave a sticking door or window down. I think everyone's dad had one in the garage or basement. Not a tool for making a good, smooth surface but rather a tool for making a piece of wood smaller.
I agree. Problem is newbies want to spend less don’t realize that. Thats why I made the video
@@RobCosmanWoodworking I can see bargain hunters being very disappointed in one of these. In the end it really pays to buy the best you can afford even if it is just one plane rather than a whole array of budget tools, none of which will perform and only discourage one from progressing. Really enjoy your content and all that you put into this. Thank you
@@RobCosmanWoodworking I just bought one, and did not realize what it was. But it can be a decent scrub plane! Worst problem is that the lever wont move the blade much. It needs to be replaced. But I agree it's not intended for fine wood work. th-cam.com/video/tv3lDDNI-lQ/w-d-xo.html
Mine is painted grey, and the surface where the blade sits is actually planed smooth.
oh crap. I bought a Bailey #4 (dated 1902) to restore, which is higher quality than the handyman, but still. I also bought a Stanley 220 block plane to restore. I also bought a Millers Falls 14C to restore, although this one is in significantly better condition than the others. I plan on using all these planes, so I hope I didn't waste my money being nostalgic. Already spent the last year restoring an old Walker - Turner table saw.
Thanks for the insight, Rob!
"Rob fighting with cheap rubbish planes". I had a lot of fun watching this 😂
Thanks for the reality check and your honest reviews!
Rats! I wish I had watched this _two weeks ago_ ...
I am really surprised that Stanley could not turn all of its knowhow and resources into an economical plane that works well.
I just picked up a couple of *Handyman* #4 size planes.
One of them will actually plane softwood, and I may keep it if I can set it up for rough work/household tasks.
The second plane, which closely resembles the one you looked at, cannot be made to plane: the blade cannot be adjusted far enough downward to project through the opening in the sole. WTF. Oddly, this plane came with a steel spacer that sits below the frog and elevates it even further so that the blade is even further from the opening. Double WTF.
I have made it my mission to remove the paint and excess metal on the frog and its base.
I hope to get it working so that the plane will function.
I put a _vintage_ blade/chip breaker on the plane that actually works, and the plane worked better than with its own iron/breaker.
So... the blade/chip breaker is probably the main weakness, but the haphazard design of the newer planes also seems to contribute to the inferior performance.
Let's be honest, both of these planes are made "cheap and cheerful" for the DIYer, for the odd job like planning down a door (made of pine) and were never intended for the craftsmen, they were capable, just, to do the job they were intended for. And no, I'd never buy either.
One thing I wish I knew from the get go was to buy quality from the beginning. You won’t really save any money cause you’re guaranteed to buy twice.
Great video. Only thing a handyman is useful for is as a poor man's scrub plane if you set it up properly.
Seeing you struggle with the cherry was a lot more familiar to my usual planing experience than those wispy thin and smooth shavings you usually get.
but not all handyman's are created equal I've actually bought 2 early model woodriver that were junk too but i do have to admit after you showed them what was wrong with the woodriver planes it turned out to be a pretty dog on good plane
Good video Rob! I have a Stanley Handyman #4 size that I filed the mouth open and rounded the corners on the iron, made for a very functional scrub plane.
Yup that's good option for it. I should have said that in the video
It's the sound from the Stanley that I recognize. My father had one exactly like what you showed and spent hours trying to plane wood for different projects with it, never could get it quite right, no matter what he tried. In the end, he opted to use a sander and left the plane to gather dust. Thank you for the reality check. I'll definitely keep my Dad's plane as a memento but will save up to buy an effective tool. I really wish my father would have had access to the information you're sharing, he would have loved it. Thanks you, I feel fortunate that I can learn from you.
So true.
Have the handyman and it sucks for the most part..and understand this is a woodworking chanel . But handyman would work in a carpentry situation..just say you need to fix a sticking door or something..it will do just fine for that
Sure, but as a woodworking I can’t recommend it. Might be a good hammer or door stop too.
I've had the same experience with the Handyman line of Stanley. My used plane was not as bad in the surface to surface contact but the cutting results duplicated your results, maybe a little better as I spent more time that I should have to stabilize things. It seems to be more apparent with the #3 size. I have an old Parplus plane that does surprisingly well. It has a fixed frog, meaning that it is part of the sole casting and in my case it is true to the plane. I did purchase a 5-1/2 Woodriver and yes, like going from a Model T to a Lexus and for that I thank you.
Great comment, thanks
As with all things these days. They don't make it like they used to.
Well there is good stuff out there, and Stanley made some very good planes but even they made a piece of crap to sell for nothing knowing that folks are price sensitive and will buy it because its cheap.
Yeah, today things are made much, MUCH better
I recently rehabbed a no. 4 Handyman that I picked up at a flea market for $8. The frog would never seat reliably at all. The slots on the screws for the tote, knob and chip breaker were all too shallow for a standard screwdriver and were partially chewed up from prior users trying to adjust it. After recutting the slots and filing down/flattening the mating surfaces on the frog and the base I was able to make it into a serviceable scrub plane. I would never try to do anything else with one. That plane has some bad juju.
But making it into a scrub plane is a good option. I should have said that in the video
My planes do exactly the same thing,… I always thought it was me!,…thanks Rob
I've bought everything from #3 to #7 planes on Ebay, all used & either early Stanley or Bailey.
I look past the surface rust & cosmetic issues & the most I've ever spent is £35/$50US.
Had one "froggy" frog on a Stanley #4 which took 20 minutes to clean up on diamond stones.
Can't see the point in buying modern, or even 50yo "budget" planes.
When’s the last time you bought one? Those prices have been creeping up quite a bit since I’ve tried to get into the hobby.
@@zacsuth You're right Zac. Prices sky rocketed during the pandemic. I notice they are starting to cool off though. I'm with Gargler. I have every Bailey Type 11 except a 1 and a smooth 8 all bought within the last 5 years. I spent a bit on the 2c and 120 on the 2. The 8c was 85. The 7s were in the 70s. The 4 1/2 was 40 and the 4 1/2 c was 60. The 5 1/2c was 50 and the 5 1/2 was 65. The 3s, 4s, 5s and 6s were all under 50 bucks. The 3s and 4s were in the 20s and the 4c was actually 18 bucks. The 5s were in the 30s. The 6s were 40 ish. You can't sniff those prices post-pandemic.
@@lawrencedeleurere4427 true! Hopefully the tools start dropping again like lumber has begun to. I want to get involved, but man, this has not been the year.
I don't know if I like these "comparison series". What is this Amazon thing? Your channel has always been particular about craftsmanship, is it becoming commercial-related? I have the impression that you are going towards what all other woodworking channels are, and I don't know if I like it. Just my personal thoughts.
I'm guessing Rob has received a bunch of requests to look at cheap planes and evaluate if they're worth buying and using. I think he's made a persuasive case that they're a waste of effort and folks should save up for a better tool.
@@bmedicky I understand this, and honestly I have appreciated that he gives a fair opinion about tested tools. I simply don't feel he should shoot series on this but just reply in comments, eventually and if possible. This to avoid becoming an opinionist. If he stated "My tools are the best you can buy for that price" maybe he could just stay on this. If the tools are good, this must be enough. The less you spend the more you spend. I have purchased a 5 1/2 with prep service and with the adjustar (a must have!!! The greatest last innovation in the field of hand planes!!!) and a secondary dovetail saw; I'm very happy with both of them and I wouldn't ask "please give me alternatives". That's his proposal, you can stay with that or look elsewhere (just my personal thought). Cheers!
There are plenty of pre-WWII planes on E-bay to purchase. I have a #5 and #7 that I fixed up. They work great with a new and thicker blade. What Rob has shown you is that no matter the era it makes sense to spend a little extra to get the quality. I've fallen into the trap of purchasing cheap only to realize I wasted my money.
Well said
Chrome only looks good on wrenches or ratchets
Really nice video, and the sound difference with a really good plane tells the whole story.
why is there no shipping to the US for the planes on your website?
An agreement with woodcraft.
I really celebrate your opinion. I'm from Germany and unfortunately I am not able to get stuff from your shop. Fortunately we have some good woodworking shops (I will not post any names) and I can really sign your conclusion: simply get get best tools you can afford. I am actually a great fan of JUUMA planes. As written on the homepage of that shop: 'Juuma closes the big gap between cheap tools and highend hardware' - which I can really confirm.
If you can get them in your area I'd like to know your thoughts about those. I really like them...
(And the cheap ones I tried first are on their their last trip - for recycling)
Unfortunately, in many countries line mine (hello from Peru), these Stanley handyman like version are commonplace. They sell it as Stanley global version. The highest "quality" we can find here somewhat easily are the Bailey version for around 75USD for a #4, but only corrugated. Not sure how the new Bailey compare to the older ones though. There is no Veritas, no Woodriver, no Lie Nielsen... not even Luban. People buy Bailey and tune it to make them work properly.
This means, no luck for new comers to woodworking. The hand plane is less and less used unfortunately. Many modern woodworkers replace planes with grinders with sandpaper (no kidding)
Comparing a 50 year old Stanley to an Amazon plane.... "In terms of lasting, I would have to give the advantage to the Amazon Basics"
Don’t think you heard that correctly.
@@RobCosmanWoodworking Sure I did, you were talking about the thickness of the lateral adjustment lever
I purchased a budget plane from home depot. It was an absolute pos out of the box. I may add that I knew absolutely NOTHING about hand planes. It was practically falling apart. The only redeeming quality was that all the mating surfaces for the frog were acceptable. I was going to return it but decided it was going to be a good learning experience on how to work/maintain and repair these tools considering I was and am really adamant about learing to work with hand tools I tore the whole thing down, cleaned up the body and even sharpened the blade with nothing but 180 grit sandpaper and some aeresol silicone lubricant. Let me tell you.. out of the box, this thing was a paper weight.. the bevel in the iron was cupped.. not cambered but cupped.. it also looked like it had been smacked with a screwdriver. The cap iron was only making contact in a total of 10mm worth of span across the iron. The depth adjuster wouldn't set the blade correctly because the screw that attaches the cap iron to the cutting iron was hitting the yolk that comes up through the frog and the area in the top of the frog where that very same screw is supposed to sit wasn't cast properly. After a couple hours, lots of sweat, swearing and watching paul sellers, james wright and others videos, I was able to shave hairs off of my leg and get shavings so thin and consistent that I could literally read through them when I laid them over something with text. I turned a pos into a working tool and I'm proud of it. The only weird thing I have noticed is that I need my cap iron further back from the bevel. Not a 32nd but more like between 1/16th-1/8th or else I will jump, skip and leave horrible marring on the piece like the Stanley did on the cherry. I recently acquired some free hardwood that was all covered in old finish including some ebony that I originally thought was walnut with a tinted shelac and the plane did just fine getting past the finish and taking a couple light surface layers to expose the beautiful raw grains.
Rob.....wondering if you have evaluated the Bridge City Tool Works planes? They are elegant, but pricey. I am more interested in performance and durability than looks.
I've tried to bring back 5 or 6 planes like these....they all sit on a shelf. Woodriver is the best bang for the buck, I have a few lie nielsen tools, they are tremendous, some IBC products, tremendous. Buy Once, and never think twice. Good tools can be and will be passed on, cheap is hard to give away at times.
when a veritas / stanley / lie-nielsen comparison? Being a canadian firm it would be interesting to hear your opinion
I know you’ve designed and sell a really nice plane. That said, Have you done a video on a “budget conscious” plane that’s worth buying?
Thank you Sir.
You got chatter because you did flatten the soul. I watch a guy turn that same plane into something that cuts as good as a Lee Nelson. Now it was a lot of work, but it could be done. The reason someone like me buys something like that is because we can't afford better, but also need to learn. But also diy'ers know that we can make them work. That is why we watch videos on things that we already own, to learn more about them. And I have learned a lot of what to do to make it better. I would rather fix it then pay that kind of money.
Wish i saw this sooner. I recently spent a few hours flattening the bottom of my number 5 handyman. Then it still wouldnt cut well so I re did the bevel on the blade becausd it wouldnt dig in. I think it was almost 45 degrees before. I can get a light shaving, but never a full pass length. Also the lateral adjuster only pushes the blade in one direction. It never cut on end grain, no matter of light of a shaving or sharp the blade. The skipping you had on cherry looks like what i get all the time. Like you said, i thought it was just my technique. Im much more seriously considering getting a high quality plane now.
Rob, maybe a video on what it would take to get them both into a good a working order as possible. Although I’m trying to do better work and your videos help tremendously, I just can’t drop $250 on the wood River unit. But I can afford $50 or so for a used Stanley in decent shape.
While I don’t dispute anything in this video at all, the fairer thing to do would surely to have used a Wood River #3 or #4 for comparison.
Thanks for doing these videos, I’ve seen way too many negative comments on the price of well made products, you typically get what you pay for, and when you continue to refine something the costs start becoming exponential. Better tools make the job easier and are a joy to work with.
Has the choice of an Handyman and Bailey. I took the bailey because i heard it is a better „class“ of planes. Knowing the issues with the handyman im happy to took the bailey as an beginner :)
You can hear the difference by just the sounds that the plane makes. It was so satisfying when you used your wood river plane. You were using wall art to plane wood in that video. Great information and teaching moment. Thanks as always.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Good plane sound: ksssh. Bad plane sound squeee.
The handyman and cheaper planes have there place
Yep, and the container is round! :)
thanks
thanks
hello, this Stanley is piped to me, she has parts from several planers. all the best for your tips
Stanley's after sale care is basically bullshit the customer, if that fails ignore them.
The Handyman and Defiance ranges are a mixed bag ... you want to pick up a box full at a garage sale for 30 bucks and use them to make one or two good ones. But they're not all &^$% either.
The first plane I ever bought (instead of borrowed) was a Handyman back in the 70's and I still have it and it's plain cardboard box (cost me, I think, about $20 new). Plastic tote, knob, and adjuster. Lever cap "Handyman" printed on an adhesive label. No throat adjusting screw, etc. Should be a piece of junk. Yet I'm as likely to reach for it as my 100 year old Stanley Bailey #4 for medium removal (not smoothing and not fore-plane work). Wouldn't use it for smoothing, but it's great for that stage in dimensioning when you want more finesse than a scrub plane.
My son found a Defiance #3 for about $25 last year, which he tuned up a little (sole, blade, chip-breaker and some rust removal only). Also low on features, but you can't beat it for smoothing small pieces of work or softwood like SPF trim.
But generally, I agree that it's worth spending the extra for a decent starter.
Thanks for the comment
If Rob can't get a decent shaving, what chance do us mere mortals have?
Hey Col. Shealy, looks like your out $27 bucks. Wish the border would open up, as I would like to visit NB and see your shop Professor Cos. Too darn old to take your class, would wear me out. Semper Fi boys
You are never too old. Our oldest student has been 88
Stanleys Sweetheart planes are getting towards that quality nowadays too.
So is the '30 seconds to sharp' video which was mentioned actually called 'Sharpening A Plane Blade 2020' and here th-cam.com/video/okLIEoz00v0/w-d-xo.html?
The thumbnail title is 32 seconds to sharp. Thx for posting the link
yeah I've got a cheaper old Stanley and it does the same exact thing, at first I thought it was me and no matter what I did the Stanley wouldn't work on anything harder than poplar and it was very discouraging, but after years of honing my skills and using lie nielsen planes i finally realized the only thing a cheap plane is good for is occasional light work in pine. ITS Better to save and buy a premium plane First so you know what a plane SHOULD feel like, then the only thing left to blame is yourself:)
Well said!
Would Woodriver planes be a good place to start if I'm looking for a nice balance between cost and quality? Or should I "Buy once, cry once" with a better brand?
WoodRiver is a good brand, to both start and finish with.
For many years I have used Record/Stanley planes, Record preferred. I have a collection of some high end planes. As a result of Robs influence I have purchased some new planes.
It makes a world of difference, the better quality plan with the wax on the sole the effort is reduced. The experience is overwhelming. At the price of good timber! Close your eyes dig into the bottom of you pocket once, then open your eyes to see a new sun rise.
You are bang on
there are plenty of old good planes out there! before i treated myself to veritas planes, i used a National #7(st thomas, ontario), a millers falls smoother and a stanley 9 1/2 block. all were flea market finds up here in ontario and work very well.
we will be in NB in august, we'll drop in and say hi!
Some of the finest furniture in history was made using wooden bodied planes. There seems to be a cultish hype about planes that I don't get. I am just as likely to grab one of my old Stanley's as I am to pick up a Lie Nielsen, if the blade is sharp and adjusted I'm good to go. Even my old wooden bodied planes, same thing. I've got wooden bodied planes made by my great great grandfather that are still good to go.
come on by we will be here waiting for you
@@RobCosmanWoodworking , I've been doing this since before you were born.
I'm waiting for you to grow up.
@@areuaware6842 calm yourself, pal, I was talking to Stevem268.
@@areuaware6842 I served my apprenticeship as a shipwright and wooden jacks and hand planes were what we used because they did the best job, at fairing planks and hulls. Steel planes were used for joinery work. It's like comparing apples and pears.
I know this might be expensive for you to do in a meaningful way, but if it's ever possible it would be great to see you compare the Wood River planes to the Clifton planes that Woodcraft also carries.
Not a bad idea, Jeff.
I have a Stanley plane with the 2 piece yoke...endlessly frustrating because to get the plane to take a decent shaving the lever cap has to be very tight and when I try to advance the blade the 2 piece yoke splays over the adjuster wheel...no such issues with my Wood River.
Yes such a bad design. Thx for the comment
Mr Miller, my shop teacher, would have smacked his hands for setting the plane flat on the workbench. :)
not today he wouldnt!
Thank you i just learn a Boat load .................................. Your very good at teaching Your Black @ White.
Thanks for watching and commenting
Another great video, Thank You.
Smashing
Thanks for watching
Hiya rob, just starting out with a plane can you recommend me a good one that should last me
Cheers Pete
Woodriver 5-1/2
Honestly you could remove the adjustment leaver and just use a light hammer for setting ist up.
You could but why????