I find it helpful to use a honing guide when sharpening plane blades. But to get the correct sharpening angle with these guides, the blade must extend a specific distance from the guide. If you change the distance the next time you use the guide, the sharpening angle will change.

This setup jig does two things for me. It saves time by making it easy to set the blade extension. It also helps me to be sure the blade is square to the guide. Make the jig from hardwood. The V-groove positions the wheel of the honing guide and the block locates the end of the chisel or plane iron. The groove and block must be parallel to each other.

To use, set the wheel of the honing guide in the V-groove and slide the plane iron or chisel into the guide until it is square against the block. Then tighten the honing guide’s clamping screw. You need a jig for each sharpening angle you use.

Fine Woodworking #184

Jim Richey

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