Hand planes are a classic woodworking tool that have been around for centuries. They are used to shave, smooth, and shape wood, making them an essential tool for any woodworker. While there are many types of hand planes available, the focus of this article is on the best rated hand planes.
When looking to purchase a hand plane, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the type of wood you will be working with. Different types of wood require different types of planes, so it's essential to choose the right one for the job. The second is the size and weight of the plane. A heavier plane will be more stable and easier to control, while a lighter plane will be easier to maneuver. Finally, the quality of the blade is essential. A sharp, high-quality blade will make your work easier and produce better results.
In this article, we will review the top-rated hand planes on the market. We will consider factors such as blade quality, size and weight, and overall performance to help you choose the best hand plane for your needs. Whether you're a professional woodworker or a hobbyist, we've got you covered. Let's dive in and take a look at the best rated hand planes available.
Best Hand Planes
If you're a woodworker, you know that hand planes are an essential tool in your arsenal. They allow you to smooth out rough surfaces, create perfect edges, and shape wood to your exact specifications. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That's why we've compiled a list of the best rated hand planes available on Amazon. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, these hand planes will help you achieve the perfect finish on your woodworking projects.
Spear & Jackson CJP5 Carpenters No.5 Jack Plane
If you're looking for a reliable and affordable hand plane to prepare rough timber, the Spear & Jackson CJP5 Carpenters No.5 Jack Plane could be a great option for you.
Pros
- Ideal for the initial preparation of rough timber
- Cast iron body for durability
- Precision milled base and faces for accuracy
Cons
- Needs to be sharpened and set up out of the box
- Blade quality is not great
- Bottom of the casing is not flat
This hand plane is perfect for those who need to prepare rough timber for their woodworking projects. Its cast iron body makes it durable and long-lasting, while its precision milled base and faces ensure accuracy in your work.
However, you should be aware that the blade quality is not great, and you will need to sharpen and set up the plane out of the box. Additionally, the bottom of the casing is not flat, which may require some extra work to get it set up properly.
Overall, the Spear & Jackson CJP5 Carpenters No.5 Jack Plane is a solid choice for those on a budget who need a reliable hand plane for their woodworking projects.
KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane 42mm for Woodworking
If you're looking for a high-quality, compact hand plane for woodworking, the KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane 42mm is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Made from top-quality Japanese materials for durability and sharpness.
- Adjustable blade length for precision work.
- Comes with official English instructions.
Cons
- Not suitable for beginners due to the need for blade fitting.
- Some users may find the small size difficult to handle.
- Price may be a bit high for those on a budget.
This Japanese wooden pull plane is perfect for surface finishing of wood, making smooth chamfers for accurate and efficient straight carpentry work. It can be used by professional carpenters and DIY woodworkers alike.
The mini size of this plane makes it easy to handle and operate with one hand, and it's ideal for chamfering corners of the wood. The angled shave is possible, and it's also useful for precision work.
The KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane 42mm is made from only the highest grade Japanese materials, including a razor-sharp and durable blade that can be restored to sharpness with a whetstone. The wooden body is heavy duty and has excellent wear resistance.
Included with the hand plane is an official English instruction manual. The blade length is adjustable by hitting it with a hammer, and fine adjustment is necessary when using a Japanese plane.
Overall, if you're an experienced woodworker looking for a high-quality, compact hand plane, the KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane 42mm is definitely worth checking out.
JORGENSEN No.4 10" Wood Planer
If you are looking for a professional and efficient wood planer, the JORGENSEN No.4 10" Wood Planer is a great choice. With its advanced materials, adjustable design, and ergonomic handle, this hand plane is perfect for trimming, polishing, deburring, cutting, and other woodworking surface processing tasks.
Pros
- The blade is made of 9CrWMn, which is a professional level O1 tool steel, improving cutting efficiency while minimizing blade wear, finely sharpened for efficient wood planing and ideal for woodworking. Besides, the blade can be repeatedly utilized, sharpened, and adjusted for a long service life.
- The body is made of ductile iron to withstand heavy-duty use and is drop-tested for rugged durability. The lever cap is made of aluminum alloy, all of which are high-quality materials, ensuring that will not be easily damaged during use.
- The cutting depth of this wood planer is adjustable, just turn the knob, you can easily adjust the length of the blade and fix it easily, then effortlessly plane different depths of wood, the hand planer can meet various needs.
Cons
- The wooden components have some sort of waxy residue on them.
- The planer is highly priced compared to other models.
- The planer is quite heavy, which may cause fatigue during prolonged use.
The JORGENSEN No.4 10" Wood Planer is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-quality wood planer that is built to last. The advanced materials used in its construction ensure that it is durable and can withstand heavy-duty use. The adjustable design allows for easy customization of the cutting depth, making it suitable for various woodworking tasks. However, the waxy residue on the wooden components may be a turn-off for some, and the high price may not be suitable for those on a tight budget. Overall, if you are looking for a reliable and efficient wood planer, the JORGENSEN No.4 10" Wood Planer is definitely worth considering.
Boeray Adjustable SpokeShave with Flat Base
If you're looking for an affordable and beginner-friendly option for woodworking, the Boeray Adjustable SpokeShave with Flat Base may be worth considering.
Pros
- The package includes two sizes of adjustable spokeshave, four replaceable blades, and one portable woodworking plane, making it a more complete set than some other options.
- The blade selection is made of SK2 material and is heat-treated for durability, with a long wear resistance and a blade hardness of 58-60HRC.
- The spokeshave tool has an intuitive flat base and a good weight for the handles, making it easy to use and give better precision for finer cuts on the woodworking project at hand.
Cons
- Some reviewers noted that the knives were not shaving sharp out of the box and required sharpening before use.
- Adjusting the blade can be tricky for some users, especially with the smaller size spokeshave.
- The wooden block plane included in the package may not be of the best quality.
If you're a beginner or on a budget, the Boeray Adjustable SpokeShave with Flat Base may be a good option for your woodworking needs. The set includes various sizes of spokeshave and blades, making it a more complete package than some other options. However, some reviewers noted that the knives were not shaving sharp out of the box and required sharpening before use, and adjusting the blade can be tricky for some users.
YOGEON Hand planer
If you're looking for an affordable hand plane that can deliver professional results, the YOGEON Hand planer could be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The plane is made of high-quality steel that is both sharp and durable.
- The handle has a contoured design that provides a comfortable grip, making it easy to hold and control.
- The compact size of the plane makes it easy to store and use in tight spaces.
Cons
- The plane may require some tweaking with the blade and body to get it into good working condition.
- The fit and finish of the plane may not be comparable to more expensive models.
- The blade may need to be reshaped and honed before use.
This hand plane is ideal for flattening, squaring, and initial smoothing of woodworking surfaces. The frog and base of the plane are a sturdy one-piece casting, and the blade is precision ground for flatness, allowing for greater accuracy and confidence when cutting. The TV remote control stand is also included with the plane, which is a nice bonus.
The handle of the plane is designed to fit comfortably in your hand, providing greater control and ease of use. The plane is also compact, making it easy to store and use in tight spaces. However, the plane may require some tweaking to get it into good working condition, and the fit and finish may not be comparable to more expensive models.
Overall, the YOGEON Hand planer is a great choice for woodworkers of all skill levels who are looking for an affordable hand plane that can deliver professional results.
DFM Tool Works Rectangle Card Scraper
If you are looking for a durable and high-quality card scraper for your woodworking projects, DFM Tool Works Rectangle Card Scraper is the perfect tool for you.
Pros
- Ideal for precise woodworking
- High carbon steel edge for exceptional longevity
- Burnisher-friendly design for superior scraping results
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Requires regular maintenance
- May not be comfortable to use for extended periods
Crafted from 0.032" (0.81mm) thick American Blue Spring Steel, this woodworking scraper is a must-have for any crafting project. With a Rockwell hardness of 50 C, the high carbon steel edge ensures exceptional longevity and reduces the need for frequent resharpening in your woodworking scraper tasks.
The 5" long edge of the wood scraper is meticulously filed smooth, facilitating faster and easier sharpening and burnishing. This optimized design makes it a vital addition to your collection of woodworking tools and accessories.
The DFM Tool Works Rectangle Card Scraper is perfect for both beginners and pros, and its burnisher-friendly design delivers superior scraping results. However, it may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks and requires regular maintenance. Additionally, it may not be comfortable to use for extended periods.
In summary, if you are looking for a durable and high-quality card scraper for your woodworking projects, the DFM Tool Works Rectangle Card Scraper is an excellent choice.
Taytools Jack Smoothing Bench Hand Plane
If you're looking for a reliable and durable hand plane, the Taytools Jack Smoothing Bench Hand Plane is a great option.
Pros
- The body and frog are made from nearly indestructible ductile cast iron, ensuring long-lasting durability.
- The Sapele handle and tote are made from premium grade oiled and hand-rubbed wood, providing a comfortable grip.
- The iron is 0.120” thick and 2” wide and made from tool steel hardened and tempered to 55-60, ensuring a sharp and precise cut.
Cons
- The plane weighs in at 5.45 pounds, which may be too heavy for some users.
- The lever cap is made from plated cast iron, which may not be as durable as other materials.
- Some users may find the price to be a bit steep compared to other hand planes on the market.
This hand plane is perfect for smoothing and flattening areas, achieving a flat and smooth finish. The body and frog are made from tough ductile cast iron, ensuring long-lasting durability. The knob and tote are carefully shaped, sanded, oiled, and hand-rubbed Sapele, providing a comfortable grip. The 0.120 inch thick and 2 inch wide tool steel iron is hardened and tempered to 55-60 Rockwell C, ensuring a sharp and precise cut. The sole is precision ground to within the British Standard of 0.003” over the entire length. The frog can be adjusted forward and back, and the lever cap is made from plated cast iron. Cap iron screws and adjusting wheels are made from polished brass. The bed angle is 45 degrees.
Overall, this hand plane offers good value for the money. The body is relatively flat out of the box, and it comes nicely finished. While it may be a bit heavier than other hand planes, the added weight provides stability and control during use. If you're looking for a reliable and durable hand plane, the Taytools Jack Smoothing Bench Hand Plane is definitely worth considering.
KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane 42mm for Woodworking
If you are looking for a reliable hand plane for your woodworking projects, the KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane 42mm is a great option.
Pros
- This hand plane is made of high-quality Japanese materials, making it durable and long-lasting.
- The blade is razor-sharp and easy to sharpen with a whetstone, ensuring smooth and accurate cuts.
- With its mini size and one-handed operation, this hand plane is easy to handle and perfect for precision work.
Cons
- The length of the blade needs to be adjusted with a hammer, which may be challenging for beginners.
- The wooden body may be heavy for some users, making it difficult to use for extended periods.
- The price point may be higher compared to other hand planes on the market.
This Japanese wooden pull plane is ideal for surface finishing of wood, allowing you to make smooth chamfers by polishing the wood with this hand tool. It is easy to apply force evenly, and accurate and efficient straight carpentry work is possible because it is used by pulling instead of pushing. It can be used not only for professional carpenters but also for a home DIY woodworker.
The mini size of this hand plane is convenient for carrying around, and angled shave is possible, making it perfect for chamfering corners of the wood. The wooden body is heavy-duty and has excellent wear resistance. The blade is made of Japanese high carbon steel, ensuring its durability and sharpness.
The KAKURI Official English instruction is included, making it easy to use and adjust the blade. The length of the blade is adjustable by hitting it with a hammer, and fine adjustment of the blade is necessary when using a Japanese plane.
Overall, the KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane 42mm for Woodworking is a top-quality Japanese tool that is perfect for both professional carpenters and home DIY woodworkers.
Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Precision Smoothing Bench Hand Plane with 2-Inch Blade and Wooden Handles, Brown
If you're looking for an affordable hand plane for your woodworking and carpentry projects, the Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Precision Smoothing Bench Hand Plane is a good option to consider.
Pros
- The cast iron body provides stability and strength, making it durable and long-lasting.
- The contoured grip of the impact-resistant wood handle offers a comfortable and secure hold, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use.
- The adjustable gear allows you to achieve precise results, making it easier to get the desired finish on your workpiece.
Cons
- Some users reported that the blade was not square to the relief, requiring some adjustments before use.
- The plane may require some tuning and tweaking to work optimally, which may be challenging for beginners.
- Some users found the quality of the plane to be poor, with some parts poorly made and not up to their expectations.
Overall, the Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Precision Smoothing Bench Hand Plane is a good choice for those looking for an affordable and reliable hand plane. It may require some adjustments and tuning to work optimally, but with proper care, it can provide quality cuts and smooth finishes on your woodworking projects.
Taytools 469607 Jack Smoothing Bench Hand Plane #5
If you're looking for a reliable and high-quality hand plane, the Taytools 469607 Jack Smoothing Bench Hand Plane #5 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The body and frog are made from nearly indestructible ductile cast iron, ensuring durability and longevity.
- The knob and tote are made from premium grade oiled and hand-rubbed Sapele, providing a comfortable grip.
- The 0.120” thick and 2” wide tool steel iron is hardened and tempered to 55-60, allowing for precise and accurate performance.
Cons
- The weight of the plane may be too heavy for some users.
- The price point may be higher than some other hand planes on the market.
- The plane may require some tuning and adjustments before optimal performance is achieved.
The Taytools 469607 Jack Smoothing Bench Hand Plane #5 is a reliable and high-quality tool that is perfect for cabinet makers and discerning woodworkers. The body and frog are made from tough ductile cast iron, ensuring that the plane can withstand heavy use and last for years to come. The knob and tote are carefully shaped, sanded, oiled, and hand-rubbed Sapele, providing a comfortable grip for extended use. The 0.120” thick and 2” wide tool steel iron is hardened and tempered to 55-60 Rockwell C, offering precise and accurate performance.
While the weight of the plane may be too heavy for some users, it provides appropriate mass for optimal performance. Additionally, the price point may be higher than some other hand planes on the market, but the quality and durability of the Taytools 469607 Jack Smoothing Bench Hand Plane #5 make it a worthwhile investment. It's worth noting that the plane may require some tuning and adjustments before optimal performance is achieved.
Overall, the Taytools 469607 Jack Smoothing Bench Hand Plane #5 is a reliable and high-quality tool that is perfect for those in need of a precise and accurate hand plane.
KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane
If you're a professional carpenter or a home DIY woodworker, the KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane is an excellent tool to add to your collection. It's ideal for surface finishing of wood, making smooth chamfers, and precision work. It's a small, handy size wood planer that can be operated with one hand, making it convenient for carrying around.
Pros
- Made from high-grade Japanese materials, the KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane is durable and wear-resistant, ensuring long-lasting use.
- The razor-sharp blade can be sharpened with a whetstone, making it easy to restore the sharpness of the blade.
- The KAKURI Official English instruction is included, making it easy to use and adjust.
Cons
- The length of the blade is adjustable by hitting it with a hammer, which may not be a familiar technique for some users.
- The fine adjustment of the blade is necessary when using a Japanese plane, which may require some practice and patience.
- The Japanese wooden pull plane KANNA may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
The KAKURI Japanese Hand Plane is an excellent choice for those who value precision and quality. With its small size and razor-sharp blade, it's perfect for chamfering corners of the wood and achieving accurate and efficient straight carpentry work.
KAKURI Japanese Block Plane
If you're looking for a high-quality Japanese hand plane, the KAKURI Japanese Block Plane is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The large size of the plane body makes it easy to hold with both hands and allows for efficient straight carpentry work.
- The razor-sharp and durable blade is made of high-grade Japanese materials, and the wooden body is heavy-duty and wear-resistant.
- The included English instructions make it easy to adjust the blade length and achieve fine adjustments.
Cons
- Fine-tuning the blade may take some time and effort, making it less suitable for beginners.
- The plane body is relatively heavy, which may cause fatigue during prolonged use.
- Some users have reported receiving planes with imperfect craftsmanship and defects.
The KAKURI Japanese Block Plane is an ideal hand tool for surface finishing of wood, allowing you to make smooth chamfers by polishing the wood. Its large size and high-quality materials make it a top choice for professional carpenters and DIY woodworkers alike. With the included English instructions, you can easily adjust the blade length and achieve fine adjustments. However, it may not be the best option for beginners, as fine-tuning the blade requires some time and effort. Additionally, the plane body's weight may cause fatigue during prolonged use, and some users have reported receiving planes with imperfect craftsmanship and defects. Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality Japanese hand plane, the KAKURI Japanese Block Plane is a great option to consider.
Grizzly Smoothing Plane
If you're looking for an affordable smoothing plane, the Grizzly H7566 is a good option to consider.
Pros
- The perfectly flat sole of this plane ensures that it can smooth any wood surface with ease.
- The rosewood handles and knobs give the plane a beautiful, classic look.
- The full plane iron adjustments, cast iron bases, frog and lever caps, chip breakers, and knurled brass adjusting nuts offer a range of customization options.
Cons
- The serrated sole can be a bit rough on some wood surfaces.
- The plane requires some tuning and sharpening before use.
- The handle can be uncomfortable after extended use.
If you're willing to put in a bit of extra effort to tune and sharpen the Grizzly H7566, it can be a great smoothing plane for the price. The flat sole and range of customization options make it a versatile tool for any woodworker.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best hand plane for your needs, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Blade Type
The blade is the most important part of the hand plane. There are two main types of blades: high-carbon steel and A2 steel. High-carbon steel blades are easy to sharpen and hold an edge well, but they are prone to rusting. A2 steel blades are more durable and resist rust, but they are harder to sharpen.
Blade Width
The width of the blade determines the size of the shavings that the plane can take. A wider blade will remove more material, but it will also require more effort to push the plane. A narrower blade is better for fine work and detail.
Sole Flatness
The sole of the plane should be completely flat to ensure even and accurate planing. Check the sole with a straight edge to make sure there are no high spots or dips.
Adjustability
The ability to adjust the blade depth and angle is important for achieving the desired thickness and smoothness of the wood. Look for a hand plane with easy-to-use adjustment mechanisms.
Comfort
A hand plane should be comfortable to use for extended periods of time. Look for a plane with a comfortable grip and a weight that feels balanced in your hand.
Price
Hand planes can range in price from under $20 to over $500. While a higher price may indicate better quality, it's important to choose a plane that fits your budget and needs.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best hand plane for your woodworking projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hand planes are considered the best for precision woodworking?
For precision woodworking, hand planes with a high level of adjustability and accuracy are recommended. The Lie-Nielsen No. 4 Smoothing Plane, the Veritas Custom Bench Plane, and the Stanley Bailey No. 5 Jack Plane are all highly regarded for their precision and performance.
What are the top hand planes recommended by experienced woodworkers on forums like Reddit?
Experienced woodworkers on forums like Reddit often recommend the Lie-Nielsen, Veritas, and Stanley hand planes for their quality and performance. The Lie-Nielsen No. 62 Low Angle Jack Plane, the Veritas Custom Bench Plane, and the Stanley Bailey No. 4 Smoothing Plane are all popular choices among experienced woodworkers.
For someone new to woodworking, which hand planes offer the easiest learning curve?
For beginners, hand planes with a low learning curve are recommended. The Stanley Bailey No. 4 Smoothing Plane, the Stanley Bailey No. 5 Jack Plane, and the WoodRiver No. 4 Bench Plane are all good options for beginners due to their ease of use and affordability.
How do I choose a hand plane that provides the best value for my budget?
To choose a hand plane that provides the best value for your budget, consider the type of woodworking you will be doing and the level of adjustability and accuracy you require. The Stanley Bailey No. 4 Smoothing Plane and the WoodRiver No. 4 Bench Plane are both affordable options that offer good value for their price.
Between Lie-Nielsen, Veritas, and Stanley, which brand's hand planes are most preferred by professionals?
Lie-Nielsen, Veritas, and Stanley are all highly regarded brands in the woodworking community, and each has its own loyal following. However, Lie-Nielsen and Veritas are often preferred by professionals due to their high level of craftsmanship and precision.
Which low angle jack plane is most highly regarded for its performance and quality?
The Lie-Nielsen No. 62 Low Angle Jack Plane is widely regarded as one of the best low angle jack planes on the market due to its exceptional performance and quality. Its adjustable mouth and blade angle make it a versatile tool for a variety of woodworking tasks.
