Replies

1. 
   ScottInMadtown | Dec 06, 2002 08:35pm | #1

   I've used Ebay (http://www.ebay.com) to get all my Stanley planes.  Take your time and look for awhile before you buy.

1. 
   AFRET98 | Dec 06, 2002 08:38pm | #3

   Thanks Scott.  Used to live in West Bend.  Small world.  I'll check EBay for the Stanley's.  Back to work.  Rick

1. 
   BenM | Dec 06, 2002 08:48pm | #4

   If you need an original the posters above have given you good info.  If you just need one of that size Lie-Nielsen makes one and it's a lot cheaper (and probably works great).

2. 
   JeffKurtz | Dec 06, 2002 08:36pm | #2

   I assume you know that the #1 is one of the most collectable planes out there and is worth thousands of dollars.  That being said, you have two options:

   1. Keep digging around at garage sales, flea markets, etc., until you find that treasure for a few dollars.
   2. Cough up the big bucks and pay a reputable dealer market price.

   Jeff

3. 
   domermatt | Dec 06, 2002 11:28pm | #5

   Are you looking for a #1 to use? If so the Lie-Nielsen is what you should get. Probably costs 1/3 of what an original costs, and is ready to use almost right out of the box.

   If you are a collector looking for one to display, I would highly recommend you only buy it from a reputable source.  You can buy one on E-bay, but make sure the seller has a high rating.  That said, most dealers on Ebay don't specialize in tools, especially very very very rare ones like the #1.  It's highly possible the plane you buy might have non-original parts, or even be counterfeit--they are out there.

   Having said all that, if I were to buy a #1, I would look at several places to start:

   The Fine Tool Journal  http://www.finetoolJ.com Clarence Blanchard runs a highly respected magazine with an absentee auction in every issue. I've seen a lot of #1s in it.

   Patrick Leach  http://www.superiortool.com  Read Patrick's Blood and Gore for all you want on Stanley Planes.  He sells tools on his site, and through a newsletter

   Martin Donnelly  http://www.mjdtools.com/ Martin also sells tools online.

   These guys are all reputable and have high quality planes for sale. Remember, you will pay for their expertise.

   Good Luck in you search. Matt

1. 
   Azeddie | Dec 06, 2002 11:44pm | #6

   I would agree after talking with a plane maker in maine this morning, he was telling me there are COPYS of the #1 out there and someone tried to sell him one.

   I see TOP condition Stanley #1's for sale at about $1,400.00makinsawdust

2. 
   eddiefromAustralia | Dec 07, 2002 05:56am | #7

   Matt,

   One more reputable dealer to try.  No commercial affiliation to me.

   http://www.hansbrunnertools.gil.com.au 

   Cheers,  eddie

1. 
   Ron | Dec 08, 2002 12:06am | #8

   the # 1 is only 5 1/2 INCHES LONG,TRY Lei-Neilsen Toolworks in Maine.You will neaver regret it.1-800-327-2520.www.lei-neilson.com

1. 
   DaveHeinlein | Dec 08, 2002 02:26am | #9

   Does anyone here actually own *and* use one of these? I own a #2 bailey, use it quite often. It's pretty small, and my meathooks cover most of it. A #1 is even smaller.

1. 
   PlaneWood | Dec 08, 2002 07:26am | #10

   Dave -

   I have one and have the blade 'scary sharp'.  I only use it to show visitors that it really does work.  I hope that my great grandkids will some day be fighting over it.  It was the last acquisition to complete my set of all the Stanley type 11, smooth bottom, bench planes.  I may have to buy another because after close inspection I think it might be a type 1.

   PlaneWood by Mike_in_KatyPlaneWood

2. 
   DaveHeinlein | Dec 08, 2002 04:38pm | #12

   Holey Moley! A type 1 mixed in with type 11! You should be ashamed! ;^} You are much more of a collector than I, I collect them to put them to work in the shop. I clean to servicable state, lap and tune them, then work them. I must admit though, I have been passing up Bailey's and taking the Bedrocks when I have a choice.

3. 
   PlaneWood | Dec 08, 2002 07:51pm | #13

   Dave -

   When using my #1, I attach a lanyard cord to it and secure the other end around my neck!  :)

   My favorite for actual use is the Stanley 4-1/2, type 11.  Nice wide heavy sucker.

   But, the plane I use most for odds and ends work is a little palm plane I made that is 4"L x 1"W x 3/4"T.  I set the angle of the blade at 30 degrees and use it with the bevel down.  The micro bevel is sharpened at 25 degrees.

   PlaneWood by Mike_in_KatyPlaneWood

4. 
   DaveHeinlein | Dec 08, 2002 08:35pm | #14

   I find I use my #2 more often than my Bedrock#4c these days for flushing face frames and ththe like. I used to use the 4 all the time, but it seems a bit too heavy for the lighter work. For a block plane I use either an old low angle Stanley or my old #140 rabetting block plane.

3. 
   AFRET98 | Dec 08, 2002 09:31am | #11

   Matt, Thanks for the sites on the Stanley Planes. I've book marked them and will check them out from time to time. Rick