Q:
Which smoothing plane should I get first, a No. 4 or a No. 4-1/2?
William Cho, Sacramento, CA
A:
My recommendation is to start with a No. 4 because its size and agility make it an ideal allaround smoother. I use mine to clean up dovetails after assembly, fine-tune the fit of drawers and doors, remove mill marks from board edges, and smooth
small panels.
However, on large panels and tabletops, a wider blade and more mass are nice to have. The blade is wider on the No. 4-1⁄2, and the plane weighs about 1 lb. more. It takes more energy to get the No. 4-1⁄2 going, but once moving, its extra momentum carries it easily through the cut.
Fine Woodworking Recommended Products
Veritas Wheel Marking Gauge
A wheel-type gauge is the easiest to use, and this wonderful Veritas model is a steal at $38.
Tite-Mark Marking Gauge
These gauges can be easily and precisely adjusted with one hand, which allows you to set the tool while holding a ruler or workpiece in the other. The quality is exceptional, and all have sharp cutters that offer great visibility.
Starrett 4" Double Square
Head is easy to remove, replace, and lock down; narrowest blade, at 5⁄8 in., made it easier to fit into tight places; hard to read under bright lights.
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