Making Accurate Cuts

Here are some pointers for getting the best results with your plane.

Using the Plane

The key to making accurate cuts is to keep the plane upright and the fence in constant contact with the workpiece.

To help prevent tilting, extend your index finger forward from the handle to rest on the adjustment knob, providing a triangulated grip.

Start with a few short cuts near the far end of the board, then move further back with each stroke, eventually making continuous full-length strokes.

How do I cut a bead?

Set the blade for a slight projection, and position the fence to locate the bead. Beads can be run along the very edge of the work or inset slightly to create a fillet. They can also be cut in the middle of the work. Position the depth stop so the bead is cut slightly below the surface, which prevents it from being damaged during clamping or sanding.

How do I install the conversion kit?

The conversion kit is to provide support for blades wider than 3/8" and provide stability to the plane. Remove the fence and slide the conversion kit onto the guide rods. Install the desired blade, then bring the conversion kit into place so its bed is supporting the blade. Screw the conversion kit’s clamping knob into the plane body, and use the parallel adjustment screw to set its skate parallel with the plane’s. Set the fence for your cut.

How do I cut a tongue?

Install the blade and set its projection; use the integral stop on the blade to set the tongue height. Install the conversion kit, and position the fence to cut the tongue the required distance from the face of the board. Remove the depth stop from the plane, and install the shaving deflector in its place.