Replies

1. 
   7Joel | Mar 08, 2009 05:30am | #1

   A LN #62 is a very useful 1st plane. I would also get an additional iron which you can sharpen at a higher angle. Do not forget sharpening equipment. I think LN has a kit with Norton stones and a honing guide that wouldn't be a bad place to start. You want to sharpen to 8000 grit.

2. 
   derekcohen | Mar 08, 2009 06:00am | #2

   Hi Joe

   When you say that the plane will be used for "laminated boards", do you mean plywood or veneered boards, or something else?

   If plywood, I would not be using an expensive plane. I keep a cheap block plane for the purpose of trimming edges since ply is very hard on iron and steel.

   For veneer, I think that you would be better served with a scraper plane since these are far less reactive to grain direction and will take a finer shaving.

   If you are edge-planing boards joined by their faces, then a LA Jack would be a good all rounder - useful as a small jointer, for end grain and also for planing difficult face grain (all done by swapping out different blades).

   Regards from Perth

   Derek

3. 
   Knotscott | Mar 08, 2009 04:48pm | #3

   A #5 is among the most versatile, thus the nickname "Jack" plane. A #4 is among the most frequently used. If I were looking for a minimal number of planes, I'd probably lean towards a #5 and a block plane, but would seriously consider adding a #3 at some point.

4. 
   sleepydad | Mar 08, 2009 05:06pm | #4

   your starting down a slippery slope.  Hand planes are like golf clubs.  you could play an entire round with a putter but having a whole bag full of different clubs for different shots is much better.

   But If I were stuck on a deserted island and could have only 2 planes these 2 would be it.

   I second whoever nominated the #62

   http://www.lie-nielsen.com/catalog.php?sku=62

   But I also use my 60 1/2 a lot.

   http://www.lie-nielsen.com/catalog.php?sku=60_5

   listen to whomever said something about sharpening. your plane is no good unless it's as sharp as you can get it.

   I use the Shapton¯ Glass Stone http://shaptonstones.com/images/stoneset-lg.jpg  really happy with them.  they are fast and do an excellent job.  also need to keep them flat so find a lapping plate.

   500,1000,4000,8000  you really don't need a 500 but it comes in handy when you have to remove a lot of steel.

    

    

    

1. 
   josefis | Mar 08, 2009 09:39pm | #5

   Thanks everyone you've helped me get a little clearer on some initial choices. There is so much out there sometimes it's nice to get some advice on narrowing down the search. I've recently discovered the true difference a sharp chisel or plane makes. I've been using power tools mostly and I am trying to integrate the use of more hand tools as I now understand how useful a properly sharpened one is. Mind blowing!!!Any more input from those out there on this topic is welcomed.Thanks to all,Joe

2. 
   roc | Mar 09, 2009 07:36am | #8

   >Shapton¯ Glass Stone<So you use and like these. I have been wanting to try even a finer stone than the 8000. No I don't have a good reason. Just want one.I have a shapton 2000 and the rest Nortons up to 8000. I don't see the "regular" shaptons available now or I would get one of those.So back to the Glass. Does it wear away to expose new grit edges or is the only time the grit edges get refreshed is when it is flattened? Do you think I would like a 16000 glass stone or if I go that fine shall I pursue the older style Shapton ?thanksrocGive me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe. Abraham Lincoln ( 54° shaves )

1. 
   sleepydad | Mar 09, 2009 04:40pm | #9

   I like them.  they are fast.  yes they wear away a bit but they are pretty hard and it seems to require the diamond lapping plate at times.  I have actually worn a 500 grit glass stone down to the underlying glass plate.  so they do wear out, just like any stone.

   http://shaptonstones.com/index.php?main_page=page_3

   keeping your stones flat is key in sharpening(at least for me it is).  I also use a honing guide for plane iron and chisels.  I have never been able to get a good edge free hand.

   they have them all?

   http://www.lie-nielsen.com/catalog.php?sku=GS-220

   I would like to try a finer stone but I don't think it's really necessary.  8000 gives a glassy mirror like finish.

5. 
   RalphBarker | Mar 08, 2009 11:37pm | #6

   It's really your patriotic duty to buy one of each of the LN planes to help stimulate the economy.

   Just kidding, of course.

1. 
   7Joel | Mar 09, 2009 12:22am | #7

   Another option for sharpening that I use is DMT course (325 grit) and and extra fine (1200) (diamond stones) either as separate or a DUO stone with both, and then an 8000 Norton for final polish. It's very efficient.