Replies

1. 
   Metod | Dec 09, 2012 10:35am | #1

   Performance

   If you are interested in the performance of the plane, then its color csheme and 'genealogy' probably will not matter much. If possible, inspect the plane visually to determine how much work it need s to function properly. 

   "antique' might have some pshychogical value, but none whatsoever of the performance/working benefits. 

   Best wishes,

   Metod

1. 
   whitedogstr8leg | Dec 09, 2012 10:59am | #2

   The 1247

   was by Stanley, and sold as part of the Handyman Lineup.  I have the 1249 one.    They run about $4-$6 usually.    They can be tuned up and made into a better "User" than any of the new Stanley block planes being sold today.

   
2. 
   Metod | Dec 10, 2012 07:12am | #3

   Planes

   Chris,

   'They really don't make them like they use to. "

   Have you tried LN or Veritas brands?

   Best wishes,

   Metod

1. 
   solo1001 | Dec 10, 2012 08:37pm | #5

   LN and Veritas

   I have not tried those yet.  I am married and if I bought those right now I might not be married.  As I progress, hopefully I can start using more high end stuff.  

1. 
   RalphBarker | Dec 11, 2012 11:40am | #6

   Tool-buying strategies

   Timing is everything when it comes to tool buying. The best time to buy a tool is when it is needed to build something she wants. ;-)

3. 
   RalphBarker | Dec 10, 2012 08:16pm | #4

   old vs. new

   While I agree that quality of many (not all) pre-1950s tools was quite good, I also agree with Metod - Lie Nielsen and Veritas planes are excellent, and better in some ways than the old Stanleys. The difference, of course, is in the price.

   As an aside, I recently discovered what amounts to a pay stub from the mid-1800s of one of my ancestors in amongst some old photos. He got paid $2.50 for a week's work.

4. 
   Admiralnj | Jan 03, 2013 01:02pm | #7

   Generally, any Stanley plane that is blue, red, maroon are not the best of quality.  You want black japanned planes, made when Stanley still gave a hoot about quality.  Things started to fall off the cliff around 1960 for them in terms of quality, fit and finish - which all affect performance.  So in the future, pass on any plane of a different color or you'll just have an exercise in frustration trying to make it work properly unless you are very experienced in fettling planes.

1. 
   whitedogstr8leg | Jan 12, 2013 03:01pm | #8

   Blue Stanley block planes

   Recently, I went through my stash of block planes.   The handyman did alright, I just don't like the #120 style of planes.  I do like the #220 style better though..