If you're just starting out in woodworking, a hand plane can be an essential tool for smoothing and shaping wood surfaces. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to know which one to choose. In this article, we'll explore the best beginner hand planes and what to look for when making your purchase.
Hand planes are a type of woodworking tool that has been used for centuries. They work by removing thin shavings of wood from a surface to create a smooth, even finish. While there are many types of hand planes, a beginner should start with a bench plane. Bench planes are versatile and can handle a wide range of tasks, making them an excellent choice for those just starting.
When choosing a beginner hand plane, there are a few critical factors to consider. First, you'll want to look for a plane that is easy to adjust and use. Some planes can be difficult to set up and adjust, which can be frustrating for a beginner. You'll also want to consider the size and weight of the plane. A heavier plane can be more stable and easier to control, but it can also be tiring to use for long periods.
In this article, we'll review some of the best beginner hand planes on the market and what makes them stand out. Whether you're just starting or looking to upgrade your current tool, we've got you covered.
Best Beginner Hand Planes
If you're new to woodworking, a hand plane can seem like an intimidating tool to use. However, with the right beginner hand plane, you can easily create smooth and precise cuts on your projects. In this article, we've compiled a list of the best beginner hand planes that are easy to use and provide great results. Whether you're working on a small DIY project or a larger scale woodworking project, these hand planes will help you achieve professional-level results.
JORGENSEN NO.102 3.5" Mini Wood Planer
If you're a beginner woodworker looking for a reliable hand plane, the JORGENSEN NO.102 3.5" Mini Wood Planer is worth considering.
Pros
- The blade is made of professional level O1 tool steel, which improves cutting efficiency while minimizing blade wear.
- The body is made of ductile iron and is drop-tested for rugged durability.
- The cutting depth is adjustable, making it versatile for different woodworking needs.
Cons
- The small size of the plane may limit its use for larger projects.
- The blade may require frequent sharpening for optimal performance.
- The small size may make it difficult to use for people with larger hands.
This mini wood planer is small and portable, making it perfect for trimming, polishing, deburring, cutting, and other woodworking surface processing tasks. The blade is finely sharpened and can be repeatedly utilized, sharpened, and adjusted for a long service life. The body is made of high-quality materials, ensuring that it will not be easily damaged during use.
The cutting depth is adjustable, just turn the knob, and you can easily adjust the length of the blade and fix it easily, then effortlessly plane different depths of wood. The small hand plane can meet various needs, making it an indispensable choice for wood projects.
The JORGENSEN NO.102 3.5" Mini Wood Planer comes with an instruction manual, making it easy to operate and friendly for professionals and woodworking beginners. Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and portable hand plane for your woodworking needs, the JORGENSEN NO.102 3.5" Mini Wood Planer is a great option.
KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane 42mm for Woodworking
If you're looking for a beginner hand plane for woodworking, the KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Made of high-quality Japanese materials for durability
- Easy to handle with one hand for precision work
- Includes official English instruction for easy use
Cons
- Blade adjustment requires fine tuning
- Not suitable for heavy-duty woodworking
- May take some time to get used to pulling instead of pushing
The KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane is an ideal tool for surface finishing of wood and making smooth chamfers. It is easy to apply force evenly, allowing for accurate and efficient straight carpentry work. Its small, handy size is perfect for chamfering corners of the wood and angled shave is possible.
This top-quality Japanese tool is made of Japanese high-grade materials, with a razor-sharp and durable blade that can be restored with a whetstone. The wooden body is heavy-duty and excellent wear resistance, ensuring longevity.
The KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane comes with official English instruction, making it easy to use. The length of the blade is adjustable by hitting with a hammer, but fine adjustment of the blade is necessary when using a Japanese plane.
Overall, the KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane is a great beginner hand plane for woodworking, with its high-quality materials, easy handling, and official English instruction.
HOZOE Chamfer Plane
If you're looking for a beginner hand plane that is easy to use and can handle a variety of woodworking projects, the HOZOE Chamfer Plane is worth considering.
Pros
- Soften the exposed edges of your work by chamfering them
- Four types of heads for various angles and radii
- Comes with a double-sided horizontal bubble for adjustable level observation
Cons
- Blades may need sharpening, grinding, and polishing during use
- Cutting depth adjustment may require caution to avoid damage to the wood
- Changing blades may be difficult due to the loose adjusting wheel
This chamfer plane is made of metal and ABS, ensuring good compressive strength and durability. It also features high-speed steel blades that are sharp, wear-resistant, heat-resistant, and corrosion-resistant. The plane is easy to disassemble and assemble, comfortable to hold, and simple to operate. It can be used for wooden furniture crafts and handmade DIY wooden works, making it suitable for woodworking beginners and professionals alike.
The HOZOE Chamfer Plane is also a great gift for men who love woodworking. With 24-hour online customer service and 180-day returns, you can be sure to have an excellent shopping experience.
In summary, if you're looking for a beginner hand plane that is versatile, durable, and easy to use, the HOZOE Chamfer Plane is a solid choice.
KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane 42mm for Woodworking, KANNA Mini Block Plane Hand Planer for Wood, 7.0 x 2.1 x 1.6 inches, White Oak Body, Made in JAPAN Japanese Wood Plane 42 mm
If you're looking for a high-quality and compact block plane that delivers precise and smooth planing results, this product is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Made with high-grade materials for durability and wear resistance
- Adjustable blade length for fine-tuning
- Comes with official English instruction for easy use
Cons
- May require some practice to achieve optimal results
- Blade may need to be sharpened regularly
- Not ideal for larger woodworking projects
This KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane is a great option for beginner woodworkers looking for a reliable and efficient hand plane. Made with high-grade materials, this plane is durable and wear-resistant, ensuring that it will last for years to come. The adjustable blade length allows for fine-tuning, making it easier to achieve the perfect plane for any project. Additionally, the included official English instruction makes it easy to use, even for those new to woodworking.
While this hand plane is a great option for beginners, it may require some practice to achieve optimal results. The blade may also need to be sharpened regularly to maintain its sharpness. Additionally, this plane is not ideal for larger woodworking projects, as its small size may make it difficult to achieve the desired results.
Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality and reliable hand plane for your woodworking projects, the KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane is a great choice.
YOGEON Hand Planer
If you're looking for a beginner hand plane that is affordable and easy to use, the YOGEON Hand Planer is a great option.
Pros
- Greater control for perfecting the shape and dimensions of wood
- Greater accuracy with precision ground cutter for cutting with confidence
- Comfortable to use with a contoured design handle
Cons
- May require some tweaking with the blade and wooden dowel pull handle
- Fit and finish may not be comparable to premium planes
- Blade may need to be flattened and reshaped before use
This hand plane is made of high-quality steel with a sturdy one-piece casting for greater control and accuracy. The precision ground cutter allows for cutting with confidence and the contoured design handle makes it comfortable to use. It's perfect for cutting, polishing, and deburring woodworking surfaces and is friendly to woodworkers of all skill levels from beginner to advanced.
The YOGEON Hand Planer is a manual power source and is great for woodworking. It measures 4.13"L x 2.36"W x 1.18"H and comes in a stylish red color. The blade can be detached by hammer, making cleaning up simple.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a beginner hand plane that is affordable and easy to use, the YOGEON Hand Planer is a great option. With its precision ground cutter and comfortable contoured design handle, you can tackle a range of professional and DIY wood projects with confidence.
Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Precision Smoothing Bench Hand Plane
If you're a beginner in woodworking and looking for a budget-friendly hand plane, the Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Precision Smoothing Bench Hand Plane might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The durable cast iron body provides stability and strength, making it a reliable tool for your woodworking projects.
- The adjustable gear allows you to achieve precise results, ensuring that your cuts are clean and accurate.
- The impact-resistant wood handle with a contoured grip makes it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the blade needs to be sharpened before use, which can be a hassle for beginners who are not familiar with sharpening tools.
- The plane may require some tuning and adjustments before it can be used effectively, which can be time-consuming.
- While the price is affordable, the quality may not be as high as more expensive hand planes.
This hand plane is a good option for beginners who are looking for an affordable and reliable tool for their woodworking projects. However, keep in mind that it may require some adjustments and tuning before it can be used effectively. If you're willing to put in the effort to sharpen the blade and make necessary adjustments, this hand plane can be a good investment for your woodworking toolkit.
Yellowhammer No. 7 Jointer Bench Hand Plane
If you're looking for a beginner hand plane, the Yellowhammer No. 7 Jointer Bench Hand Plane might be worth considering.
Pros
- The tool steel blade is thick, wide and tempered and hardened for superior edge holding, durability, and easy resharpening.
- The cast iron frog is easily tuned and adjusted using the polished brass cap iron screw and adjusting wheel.
- Sole and sides are precision ground for flatness within .005" across the full length.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the cap iron and chip breaker.
- The plane may need some tuning to bring to its full potential.
- The sole had a low spot almost 1/16".
The Yellowhammer No. 7 Jointer Bench Hand Plane is a mid-range option that can get the job done. It has a solid build and is a pretty decent option for the price. However, some users have reported issues with the cap iron and chip breaker, and the plane may need some tuning to bring it to its full potential.
If you're willing to put in a little extra effort to get the most out of your hand plane, the Yellowhammer No. 7 Jointer Bench Hand Plane might be a good choice for you.
JORGENSEN NO.60.5 6.3" Mini Wood Planer
If you're a beginner woodworker looking for a reliable hand plane, the JORGENSEN NO.60.5 6.3" Mini Wood Planer might be worth considering.
Pros
- The professional-level blade is made of 9CrWMn, a high-quality O1 tool steel, which improves cutting efficiency while minimizing blade wear. It's also finely sharpened for efficient wood planing and is ideal for detail woodworking. Plus, the blade can be repeatedly utilized, sharpened, and adjusted for a long service life.
- The body is made of ductile iron, which can withstand heavy-duty use and is drop-tested for rugged durability. The lever cap is made of zinc alloy, and other parts are stainless steel, all of which are high-quality materials, ensuring that the hand plane will not be easily damaged during use.
- The cutting depth of this mini wood planer is adjustable. Just turn the knob, and you can easily adjust the length of the blade and fix it effortlessly, then plane different depths of wood. Not only that, but the width of the mouth is also adjustable.
Cons
- The blade may require sharpening out of the box.
- The sole may not be perfectly flat, which can affect the quality of your woodworking.
- Some users have reported that the hand plane requires some tweaking to work correctly.
If you're looking for a small and portable hand plane that's perfect for trimming, polishing, deburring, cutting, and other woodworking surface processing tasks, the JORGENSEN NO.60.5 6.3" Mini Wood Planer might be a good choice. It's easy to use, professionally and meticulously polished flat bottom provides smooth operation, and it comes with an instruction manual that's friendly for professionals and woodworking beginners. However, you may need to sharpen the blade out of the box, and the sole may not be perfectly flat, which can affect the quality of your woodworking.
YOGEON Mini Wood Planer
If you're looking for a small hand planer for woodworking, the YOGEON Mini Wood Planer might be just what you need.
Pros
- Greater control: The sturdy one-piece casting of the frog and base allow for greater control when shaping and finishing wood.
- Greater accuracy: The precision ground cutter allows for cutting with greater accuracy and confidence.
- Mini but widely use: This hand plane is friendly to woodworkers of all skill levels from beginner to advanced, perfect for cutting, polishing and deburring woodworking surfaces.
Cons
- Tiny handle grip: The miniature size of the handle might make it difficult to hold and control for those with larger hands.
- Small size: The small size of the plane might not be suitable for larger woodworking projects.
- Depth of blade can be difficult to set: Due to its construction, the depth of the blade can be difficult to set.
The YOGEON Mini Wood Planer is a great option for those looking for a small, compact hand plane for woodworking projects. The sturdy one-piece casting of the frog and base allow for greater control when shaping and finishing wood, while the precision ground cutter allows for cutting with greater accuracy and confidence. The miniature size of the handle might make it difficult to hold and control for those with larger hands, and the small size of the plane might not be suitable for larger woodworking projects. However, this hand plane is friendly to woodworkers of all skill levels from beginner to advanced, perfect for cutting, polishing and deburring woodworking surfaces. If you're looking for a small hand planer for your next woodworking project, the YOGEON Mini Wood Planer might be just what you need.
Taytools 469607 Jack Smoothing Bench Hand Plane #5
If you're a beginner woodworker looking for a high-quality hand plane, the Taytools 469607 Jack Smoothing Bench Hand Plane #5 is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The body and frog are made from nearly indestructible ductile cast iron, ensuring durability and longevity.
- The tote and knob are made from premium grade oiled and hand-rubbed Sapele wood, providing a comfortable grip and stylish appearance.
- The iron is 0.120” thick and 2” wide and made from tool steel hardened and tempered to 55-60 Rockwell C, allowing for precise and smooth cuts.
Cons
- The weight of 5.45 pounds may be too heavy for some users, causing fatigue after extended use.
- The bed angle of 45 degrees may not be suitable for all woodworking projects.
- The lever cap is made from plated cast iron, which may not be as durable as other materials.
The Taytools 469607 Jack Smoothing Bench Hand Plane #5 is an ideal tool for smoothing and flattening areas, achieving a flat and smooth finish. The precision machined sole and sides ensure accuracy, while the adjustable frog and lever cap allow for customization to fit your specific needs.
Overall, the Taytools 469607 Jack Smoothing Bench Hand Plane #5 offers good value for the money, with its high-quality construction and precision machining. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned woodworker, this hand plane is a great addition to your tool collection.
KAKURI Japanese Block Plane Large 60mm for Woodworking
If you're looking for a high-quality Japanese hand plane for woodworking, the KAKURI Japanese Block Plane Large 60mm is worth considering.
Pros
- This hand plane is ideal for surface finishing of wood, making smooth chamfers by polishing the wood with this hand tool.
- The plane body is big size, which makes it easy to hold with both hands and sharpen wide sides at one time.
- The blade is razor-sharp and durable, made of Japanese high carbon steel, and it is possible to restore the sharpness by sharpening the blade with a whetstone.
Cons
- The length of the blade is adjustable by hitting with a hammer, which requires fine adjustment of the blade when using a Japanese plane.
- While it works well out of the packaging, it really shines when you take the time to properly sharpen and tune it.
- The wooden body is heavy-duty and excellent wear resistance, but it may not be as durable as metal-bodied hand planes.
This Japanese hand plane is a top-quality tool that is made in Japan with only Japanese high-grade materials. It is handcrafted by Japanese craftsmen and comes with an official English instruction manual. The moderate weight body enables you to pull the plane smoothly, making accurate and efficient straight carpentry work possible.
The KAKURI Japanese Block Plane Large 60mm is an excellent value for the price, but it needs some tune-up before use. It is not recommended for beginners, but it can be used not only for professional carpenters but also for home DIY woodworkers. Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality Japanese hand plane for woodworking, this one is definitely worth considering.
Plasterboard Fast Cutter, Plasterboard Edger Gypsum Board with 10 Blades, Hand Plane Drywall Edge Chamfer Woodworking Hand Tool Cutting Tools Gift for Handymen Woodworkers Beginners (45+60 Degrees)
If you're looking for an affordable and easy-to-use hand plane for finishing different materials like drywall, cork, and plastic, the Plasterboard Fast Cutter from EUWBSSR could be a great option for you.
Pros
- The 45-degree and 60-degree blade can achieve trimming edges at 90 and 120 degrees respectively, giving you a variety of trimming options.
- The sharp cutter ensures clean borders for a professional finish. You can achieve smooth and precise edges with minimal effort.
- The bracket made of ABS engineering plastic material provides a comfortable grip after prolonged use.
Cons
- The blades may not last very long and may need to be replaced frequently.
- Some users may find it difficult to achieve precise cuts with this tool.
- The tool may not be suitable for heavy-duty use.
This plasterboard fast cutter provides quick trimming, clean and precise cutting, and can pull back chamfers on drywall edges to achieve a clean look. It's a great gift for crafting lovers and beginners, and it can create a smooth and finished look for your projects. The scope of application is wide, making it a versatile tool for any DIY enthusiast.
Overall, if you're in need of a beginner hand plane for your DIY projects, the Plasterboard Fast Cutter from EUWBSSR is definitely worth considering.
Spear & Jackson CJP5 Carpenters No.5 Jack Plane
If you're a beginner looking for an affordable hand plane to prepare rough timber, the Spear & Jackson CJP5 Carpenters No.5 Jack Plane might be worth considering.
Pros
- Ideal for initial preparation of rough timber
- Cast iron body for durability
- Precision milled base and faces for accuracy
Cons
- Blade may need sharpening out of the box
- Sole may not be flat
- Chip breaker may need work to prevent space between it and the blade
This hand plane is built solidly, with a cast iron body and precision milled base and faces for accuracy. However, some users have reported that the blade may need sharpening out of the box and the sole may not be perfectly flat. Additionally, the chip breaker may need some work to prevent a space between it and the blade.
Despite these potential drawbacks, the Spear & Jackson CJP5 Carpenters No.5 Jack Plane is a good option for beginners looking for an affordable hand plane to prepare rough timber. With a little bit of work, it can be a reliable tool for your woodworking projects.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best beginner hand plane, there are a few key features to consider. These features will help you choose a product that is easy to use and produces high-quality results.
Blade Material
The blade material is an important factor to consider when choosing a hand plane. The most common materials are high-carbon steel and A2 steel. High-carbon steel is easy to sharpen and holds an edge well, but it is prone to rusting. A2 steel is more durable and resistant to rust, but it can be more difficult to sharpen.
Blade Width
The width of the blade determines the width of the cut that the plane makes. For beginners, a blade width of 2 inches is a good starting point. This width is versatile enough to handle a variety of tasks, but not so wide that it is difficult to control.
Sole Flatness
The sole of the plane should be flat and smooth. This ensures that the plane glides smoothly over the surface of the wood, producing an even cut. Look for a plane with a sole that is machined flat and has no visible gaps or warping.
Adjustability
The ability to adjust the blade depth and angle is important for achieving the desired results. Look for a hand plane with easy-to-use adjustment mechanisms that allow you to make precise adjustments quickly and easily.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Finally, consider the comfort and ergonomics of the hand plane. Look for a plane with a comfortable grip that fits well in your hand. A plane that is too heavy or too light can be difficult to control, so choose a weight that feels comfortable to you.
By considering these features, you can choose the best beginner hand plane for your needs. Whether you are just starting out or looking to upgrade your current tools, a high-quality hand plane can make all the difference in your woodworking projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What characteristics should I look for in a beginner hand plane for woodworking?
When looking for a beginner hand plane for woodworking, there are a few key characteristics to consider. Firstly, you'll want to look for a plane that is easy to adjust and use. It should also have a comfortable grip and be well-balanced to reduce fatigue. Additionally, a beginner hand plane should be affordable and made from durable materials to ensure longevity.
Which hand plane size is most versatile for beginners?
For beginners, a jack plane is the most versatile size to start with. This type of plane is typically around 14 inches long and can be used for a variety of tasks, including flattening, smoothing, and shaping wood.
How do I determine the quality of a hand plane within my budget?
When shopping for a hand plane within your budget, there are a few things to look for to determine its quality. Firstly, check the blade to ensure it is made from high-quality steel and has a sharp edge. You should also examine the plane's body to ensure it is well-made and sturdy. Finally, consider the brand reputation and read reviews from other woodworkers to gauge the overall quality of the plane.
What are the differences between a block plane and a jack plane for novices?
While both block planes and jack planes can be used by novices, they serve different purposes. Block planes are smaller and more compact, making them ideal for smaller tasks such as chamfering and smoothing end grain. Jack planes, on the other hand, are larger and more versatile, making them suitable for a wider range of tasks, including flattening and smoothing larger surfaces.
Can you recommend reputable hand plane brands for new woodworkers?
There are several reputable hand plane brands that are popular among new woodworkers. Some of the most well-known brands include Stanley, Lie-Nielsen, and Veritas. However, it's important to do your own research and read reviews to find a brand that fits your budget and needs.
What are the key factors in choosing my first hand plane for various woodworking tasks?
When choosing your first hand plane for various woodworking tasks, there are a few key factors to consider. These include the type of wood you'll be working with, the size of the project, and the specific tasks you'll be performing. Additionally, you'll want to consider your budget and the overall quality of the hand plane to ensure it will last for years to come.
