A wood block plane is a small hand plane used by woodworkers for finishing and smoothing wooden surfaces. Block planes are versatile tools that can be used to trim and shape wood, remove saw marks, flatten small areas, chamfer edges, and more. Understanding what a wood block plane is used for helps woodworkers utilize this tool to its full potential.
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What is a Wood Block Plane?
A wood block plane is a small hand plane, typically around 6-8 inches long, that consists of a metal body, a blade, a lever cap to hold the blade in place, and an adjustable mouth opening. The body is made of cast iron or brass to give it weight and stability. The blade is a small, replaceable cutting blade that can be sharpened and adjusted to change the depth of cut. The mouth opening surrounds the blade and can be adjusted to control tear-out and chip-out as the plane moves across the wood. The sole, or bottom surface, of the plane is precision machined flat and smooth to glide across the workpiece.
Block planes are designed to be used with one hand, allowing for controlled planing action in tight spaces and on small surfaces. The small size and weight of a block plane, typically under 2 pounds, also makes it ideal for detailed precision work where a larger bench plane may be unwieldy.
There are several types of block planes suited for different uses:
- Standard block plane – An all-purpose block plane good for general smoothing and finishing work.
- Low angle block plane – The blade sits at a lower angle, making it easier to cut difficult grain and prevent tear-out.
- Rabbet block plane – Designed for planing rabbets and right angle channels.
- Bullnose block plane – The front of the sole curves up to plane into tight corners.
Key Uses of a Wood Block Plane
Due to their small size and versatility, block planes are one of the most commonly used hand planes. Here are some of the main uses and applications for a wood block plane:
Smoothing and Finishing
One of the main uses for a block plane is to smooth and finesse a wood surface. After milling lumber and completing initial smoothing with larger planes, a block plane excels at putting on a final smooth surface ready for finishing. The small sole glides easily across the wood, taking very fine shavings to eliminate any remaining machine marks or minor imperfections.
A finely tuned block plane used with the grain can produce a surface so smooth it looks polished. Most woodworkers keep a block plane reserved solely for final smoothing work to maintain an extra sharp edge.
Trimming and Shaping
The compact size of a block plane allows for safely working in tight spaces and trimming wood in places larger planes can’t access. Woodworkers use block planes to trim door hinges, finesse the shape of drawer fronts, and make subtle adjustments to fitted joints.
When taking very light cuts, a block plane can shape wood with precision and control. The bullnose style is particularly useful for planing into tight corners.
Chamfering Edges
Chamfering the edges of boards helps hide imperfections and gives a nicer visual appearance. This is done by planing the edge at an approximately 45 degree angle to the face. A block plane is ideal for quickly and consistently chamfering edges of tabletops, shelving, cabinets, and more.
Removing Saw Marks
The machined marks left by saw blades are often some of the deepest on the surface of milled lumber. A finely tuned block plane excels at removing these marks by planing lightly diagonally across them. This helps prepare the wood for finishing by eliminating the deepest imperfections.
End Grain
Planing end grain with a standard bevel-down bench plane often results in tear out. However, using a low angle block plane with the grain can cleanly slice end grain. Cabinetmakers use this to flatten the ends of boards for fitting tight joints.
Small Surface Areas
While a jointer plane tackles large surfaces, the small sole of a block plane excels at flattening smaller areas of less than a few inches. Common examples are easing edges, flattening raised grain, or fitting small joints. The plane can also take lighter cuts on highly figured wood like curly maple where a larger plane would tear out.
Shooting
Shooting is the technique of planing an edge of a board perpendicular to its face to clean up saw marks and create a straight edge. A block plane’s low center of gravity and ability to plane end grain makes it ideal for shooting narrow surfaces.
Cleaning up Glue
When wood glue squeezes out of joints, it can dry as a hard lump on the surface. Carefully running a sharp block plane across the area cleanly slices the dried glue off in thin shavings.
Using a Wood Block Plane
Mastering using a wood block plane takes some practice, but learning proper technique helps utilize this tool effectively for all your woodworking tasks.
Securing the Workpiece
The workpiece must be securely clamped in place before starting to prevent it from shifting during planing. Use bench dogs, clamps, a vise, or other workholding methods to fix the wood flat on a workbench.
Planing Direction
Always plane in the direction of the wood grain, taking very light cuts. Taking too heavy of a cut or planing against the grain is likely to cause tear out. Lifting the blade slightly while finishing each pass helps prevent tear out.
Holding the Plane
Use one hand to grip the knob at the rear of the plane, applying downward and forward pressure. Place the other hand in front of the knob to guide and steer the plane. Keep your hands close together for optimal control.
Depth of Cut
Adjust the depth knob and take lighter shavings for a smoother finish. Heavier cuts are used for rapid stock removal such as flattening uneven surfaces. Turning the depth knob clockwise advances the blade for a deeper cut.
Lever Cap Tension
The lever cap at the rear secures the blade in place. Tighten just enough so there is no chatter while planing, but the blade can still be adjusted. Over-tightening the lever cap can damage the blade or body.
Mouth Opening
The mouth opening around the blade helps control tear-out. For light cuts, open the mouth wider to allow shavings to pass through. Close the mouth for heavier cuts or difficult grain to reduce chip-out.
Sharpening
Sharpen the blade frequently for best performance. A finely honed blade cuts smoothly and prevents tear-out. Hone to a 25-30 degree angle on finer stones. Lap the back of the blade flat.
Lateral Adjustment
If the blade cuts deeper on one side, adjust it laterally by tapping the heel of the plane. Advance the blade into the heavier cut until even.
Check for Flatness
Use a straightedge to periodically check that the sole is dead flat. Lap the sole on sandpaper over a flat surface if it becomes warped or scratched.
Types of Wood Block Planes
There are several specialized varieties of wood block planes, each designed for specific uses:
Standard Block Plane
This is the most common style, with a flat sole and blade bedded at the standard 25 degree bevel angle. It can perform nearly any block plane task well.
Low Angle Block Plane
The blade on this style sits at only 12-15 degrees, making it easier to cut difficult grain while minimizing tear-out.
Rabbet Block Plane
This plane has a flexible fence attached to the side that rides in rabbet channels. The fence prevents tear-out when planing into corners of rabetts.
Bullnose Block Plane
The sole of this plane curves upward like a bullnose to allow planing into tight corners that would be inaccessible to a standard square block plane.
Adjustable Throat Block Plane
This style allows for the throat opening to be easily adjusted for heavier or finer cuts. Most standard block planes require disassembly to adjust the throat.
Finger Plane
Extremely small planes around 4 inches long used for the most delicate precision work in tiny areas.
Chisel Plane
The blade on this specialty plane protrudes below the sole, acting more like a chisel for chipping off small amounts of waste.
Buying Guide
When choosing a wood block plane, keep these factors in mind:
New vs Used
Well-tuned vintage planes work extremely well, but require sharpening and flattening skills. New planes offer factory precision and convenience.
Price
Expect to pay $100-300 for a quality new block plane. Vintage planes can cost $25-100 depending on condition.
Size
Lengths between 6-9 inches work well. Larger sizes up to 10 inches are useful for wider surfaces. Mini planes under 6 inches excel at detail work.
Weight
Heavier planes of at least 2 pounds perform better, but light weights under 1 pound are best for fingertip precision.
Brands
Top brands include Lie-Nielsen, Veritas, WoodRiver, and Stanley (for vintage models). Avoid the cheapest new planes under $50.
Blade Steel
A2 or O1 tool steel holds an edge exceptionally well. Standard carbon steel requires more frequent sharpening.
Sole Material
Precision machined cast iron or bronze provides a flat, vibration-free sole. Avoid lightweight aluminum soles whenever possible.
Replaceable Blade
The ability to change the blade easily is a must for sharpening and switching blade bevels.
Adjustment Mechanisms
Convenient front knobs to adjust depth, mouth opening, and lateral blade position improve precision and ease of use.
Tall vs Low Frog
Higher frog designs improve performance on difficult grain. Low frogs excel on straight grained woods.
Style
Choose a standard, low angle, rabbet, or bullnose style based on your specific needs.
Safety Tips
Follow these precautions when using a wood block plane:
- Always plane in the direction of the wood grain.
- Make sure the workpiece is securely clamped.
- Keep the sole rested flat on the workpiece when planing.
- Keep fingers away from the blade and mouth area.
- Don’t plane pieces smaller than your hands can safely grip.
- Make light passes and check for tear-out frequently.
- Unplug power tools when adjusting planes.
- Wear safety glasses to prevent eye injuries.
- Clean shavings frequently to prevent slipping.
Maintenance
Keep your wood block plane performing well with regular maintenance:
- Oil the sole occasionally to prevent rust.
- Clean resin buildup with alcohol and steel wool.
- Lap the sole flat if it becomes worn or warped.
- Hone and polish the blade to a razor edge frequently.
- Lubricate adjustment mechanisms if they become stiff.
- Check screws are tight.
- Store with a light coat of oil to prevent rust.
Conclusion
In the hands of a skilled woodworker, the simple wood block plane becomes an indispensable tool capable of solving countless challenges. From rapidly removing saw marks to putting on an award-winning glass-smooth finish, the wood block plane delivers fine results across a diverse range of applications. Taking the time to learn proper block plane techniques will unlock the full potential of this essential woodworking tool.