With its flat spokeshave, Veritas has taken the standard-angle shave to a new level of performance. The tool came sharp and ready to go right out of the box. Blade adjustments were smooth and precise with minimal backlash, and both the lever cap and bed were well-machined and needed no further refinement. This shave is equally at home in soft or densely figured hardwood, and it comes with two shims that can narrow the mouth opening to help reduce tearout in figured woods. For those looking for a high quality shave, the Veritas will fill the bill. It’s my choice as best overall of the standard angle shaves.

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