When carrying out carpentry work, a variety of woodworking tools are used. A special place in every carpentry workshop when performing various works with wood is occupied by such a device as a plane. Despite the fact that this tool, although outdated, as a rule, electric models are actively used instead, it is still indispensable when it is necessary to chamfer.
In addition, thanks to the use of this device, the master can quickly give a wooden workpiece a smooth surface or adjust it to the required size. The editors of the YaNashla website have prepared for your attention, having previously studied all the reviews, advice, and recommendations of the vast majority of users, a rating of high-quality hand planes for processing wooden parts and blanks as of 2022.
Design features of hand tools
Before using any manual or mechanical plane, regardless of whether it is new or has been in service with a specialist in the workshop for a long time, it is necessary to properly configure it and prepare it for work. To do this, you need to thoroughly know the structure of this mechanical device, which is used for processing wood. A classic hand plane for wood consists of:
- Handles;
- The body, or as it is also called, the sole;
- Cutter;
- Screw for feeding the knife used for planing;
- Pens;
- Klina;
- Special slot for removing chips;
- Cutting depth regulator;
- Chipbreaker hump;
- Pressing cover.
The main component of such a tool is a special cutter. In its form, it is presented in the form of a metal plate with a pointed end. In preparation for work, the master places the blade at a given, specific angle in relation to the wooden surface being processed. A special regulator allows you to extend the knife in use to the distance required by the master. Thanks to this, the planing depth parameter is adjusted and adjusted.
On a note! On factory models of planes, the knives have a standard, generally accepted sharpening angle. Professional carpenters and craftsmen, when working with such tools, use the sharpening angle that is suitable for processing a certain type of wood.
What types are there?
Hand planes come in several different types. They may differ from each other in the shape of the blades, design and other parameters on which the purpose and scope of application of the tool depends. Depending on the design features and scope of use, planes are of the following types:
- Medvedka. Has a long sole. As a rule, this tool is often used in cases where large pieces of wood need to be leveled. In addition, they are best suited for large volumes of work.
- Planers. Equipped with double cutter. Used for finishing wood surfaces. This tool has a longer sole than the Scherhebel, which makes it possible to process large volumes of wooden parts and workpieces.
- Half jointers. They are a shortened, trimmed version of the standard, simple jointer. It is equipped with a double knife and is mainly used in cases where there is a need for fine planing of workpieces.
- Solid. For such devices, the sole consists of 3 planes. Their main purpose is trimming, processing sharp corners that are present directly on the very edges of wooden parts or blanks.
- Roughing. Used for rough planing of wooden parts. In addition, they are often used for cutting edges on drywall, which ensures smooth sloping cuts.
- Grinding pads. This hand tool is designed for high-quality, fine finishing of wooden surfaces. As a rule, it is used in cases where it is necessary to process the product in the area of knots, at the ends.
For domestic use, as a rule, one model of plane is used (for the initial, rough finishing). However, in carpentry workshops, tools are used for both rough and finishing processing of products. In addition, for the manufacture of wooden parts or products of complex geometric shapes, carpentry workshops also use so-called planers for figure cutting.
How to work correctly?
It’s not difficult to understand how to operate an electric planer.
But first, it is important to study the instructions. After this, you need to check whether the front part of the plate is adjusted and whether it is in the correct position
If not, it should be adjusted. You also need to check the installation of the knives so that they do not touch the sole.
If the tool is in order and you can start using it, you should not immediately start working, practicing on good boards necessary for high-quality, beautiful processing. At first, it is recommended to train on unnecessary materials that you don’t mind spoiling.
In order for the final result to be as good as possible, it is important to use the right lumber: dried, smooth. It should not contain protrusions, depressions, knots, cracks, chips, metal elements: staples, nails, screws and others
Types of planes for figure cutting
| Name | Description |
| Federgubel | Equipped with a blade of a special design. It is used in cases where it is necessary to make a longitudinal protrusion in the workpiece. |
| Staffgobel | Equipped with a knife with a rounded tip. It is used when finishing concave wooden products or parts. |
| Zenzubel | It is equipped with a double-type blade, which in its shape resembles a spatula. It is used for planing perpendicular surfaces, as well as cleaning so-called quarters. The knife width of this tool can reach 33 mm. |
| Falsebel | Equipped with a sole with a ribbed surface. In addition, this device provides for the use of oblique as well as straight cutters. It is the best option for processing quarters. Due to the fact that the sole of this tool has a stepped design, it is easy to select folds of a suitable profile and size for it. |
| tongue and groove | The design of this tool involves the use of 2 blocks connected to each other using clamping screws. This device is used to make longitudinal grooves along the edge of a product. |
| Gruntubel | It is a block, in the side of which there is a trapezoidal cutter. Used for turning grooves in products in the longitudinal direction. Equipped with two handles and a special adjustment mechanism. |
| Mold | Used when creating figured cuts. Often used when decorating cornices and creating frames for doorways. |
| Gorbach | Equipped with a special curved block. Allows you to process products that have a round shape. It is worth noting that this tool is used for external and internal diameters of wooden parts or workpieces. |
Main selection criteria
How to choose, what are the selection criteria, what mistakes should you avoid when choosing a hand plane? What to look for when choosing? When choosing a hand tool such as a plane, you need to pay attention to its technical characteristics (width of the sole, angle of installation of the knives), functionality (availability of adjustments), the material from which the body is made (metal, wood), as well as the scope of application. In addition, when purchasing such a product, it is recommended to pay attention to the manufacturer’s company.
Where can I buy? You can purchase such manual or mechanical tools for wood processing in specialized construction stores. In addition, you can also buy the best, high-quality models of manual planes in online stores, having previously familiarized yourself with the catalog of the products presented in it, studied its technical characteristics and made an online order.
The best manufacturers
When choosing hand tools such as wood planes, it is recommended to pay attention to manufacturers of popular, global brands. After all, tools produced under well-known brands are always distinguished by a high level of quality and long service life. Some of the best manufacturers of wood planes are: BISON, PINIE, TUNDRA, STAYER, as well as KRAFTOOL.
Selection depending on the material being processed
There are different designs of planes on the market that are designed to perform specific tasks. Depending on their purpose, they can be used for processing wooden parts, plastic, products made from plasterboard, fiberboard, and chipboard.
Knife width and angle
The width of the blade passage across the surface of the wood depends on the dimensions of the knife used. This indicator directly affects the processing speed of wooden blanks. On the domestic market you can find tool models whose knife widths vary from 6.3 to 250 mm. The most common and frequently encountered is the width, which varies within 82 mm.
To process different types of wood materials, it is necessary to select the appropriate angle at which the cutting element of the plane is installed. On the domestic market there is often a tool on which knives can be installed at the following angles: 90,80,25,50,12,60,15 degrees.
Frame
The body of a tool such as a plane can be metal, wood, or plastic. For everyday household use, with light loads, planes with a wooden body are perfect. For daily, constant use, in which large volumes of work are planned, it is recommended to purchase a hand tool whose body is made of metal.
It is more advisable to buy models with a body made of plastic in cases where you plan to process edges or soft wood. In addition, such a tool is perfect for working with materials such as drywall.
Safety precautions when operating an electrical appliance
Wood varnish: how to choose the right type to achieve maximum effect
This electrical appliance is quite dangerous for humans. Therefore, before you start using it, you need to thoroughly read the safety instructions in order to avoid injuries and accidents in advance, and to protect yourself and your loved ones if you have a new tool in the house.
When operating an electric planer, you must adhere to certain rules, namely:
- make adjustments only after completely disconnecting from the network, remembering to press the accidental activation lock button for safety;
- you cannot work in clothes with long sleeves and hems;
- It is better to use special glasses as a means of eye protection;
- when making a purchase, you need to carefully inspect the device for the presence or absence of loose parts, rotating elements, the rotation of which is not provided for by the overall design;
- All nails, screws, staples and other foreign objects, if any, must be removed from the prepared materials;
- the beam must be securely fastened between the vice;
- maintain a stable position while working;
- knives must be purchased only those that were initially approved by the manufacturer, and their blades should be checked for length - it must be the same for all knives, otherwise a vibration response from the drum will appear, which is extremely undesirable;
- Do not leave the electric planer unattended, keep it away from children.
Thus, high-quality electrical appliances cannot be a budget option; you have to pay for quality. But for the home, it is quite possible to get by with not too expensive models, because their work does not involve processing a large amount of lumber.
Therefore, those who want to have this instrument in their home are invited to familiarize themselves with the characteristic features, descriptions, and advice from the owners, on the basis of which a rating selection has been created, the main purpose of which is to help with the choice and get to know the best models.
Review of high-quality models with a wooden body
Wooden folding belt PremiumPlus 30mm PINIE, 10-30 PremiuPlus
It is, in the opinion of buyers, a high-quality hand tool that is used for processing and planing a variety of workpieces. Beech was used to make the body of this product. The sole of this model is made of hornbeam. In addition, this device is equipped with a chip breaker. Thanks to a special mechanism, the user can adjust the front sole.
This model is equipped with one knife, which is made of high quality steel. The sole length is 255 mm. The width of the blade, which is located at an angle of 35 degrees, is 30 mm. The weight of the product is 0.55 kg. General dimensions – 260x150x35 mm.
Wooden folding belt PremiumPlus 30mm PINIE, 10-30 PremiuPlus
Advantages:
- Provides a narrow plow (perfectly makes paths and half-paths);
- Reliable case;
- Movable sole;
- High quality blade;
- Easy to set up.
Flaws:
- High price (average cost 6197 rubles).
SIBIN 18540
A classic, budget, inexpensive model of a wood plane. Equipped with one replaceable blade, the width of which is 47 mm. Perfect for home use and wood processing. Equipped with a durable left hand rest. Thanks to the high-quality body and the width of the cutting part used, it ensures fast processing of a variety of workpieces. The dimensions of the sole are 240x60 mm.
SIBIN 18540
Advantages:
- Low price (611 rubles);
- Easy to set up;
- Ergonomic body;
- Possibility of adjusting the planing depth;
- Processing quality.
Flaws:
- Some users claim that the knife should be sharpened immediately after purchasing this product.
STAYER MASTER 1854-24_z01
It is a simple, ordinary, inexpensive, household wooden hand plane, which is perfect for performing simple tasks and finishing a variety of workpieces. This model can be used in cases where it is necessary to plan the end of any parts of various products (window frames, boxes, and so on).
The cutting part of this device is made of high-quality, hardened steel. Hard wood was used to make the sole. The blade width is 52 mm. The length of the sole is 240 mm.
STAYER MASTER 1854-24_z01
Advantages:
- Price (443 rubles);
- Ease of use;
- Blade quality;
- Easy to adjust planing depth.
Flaws:
- Not suitable for complex tasks (best purchased for infrequent, occasional home use).
ROS, wooden, single blade (240x65 mm)
An inexpensive device from the budget segment, which is perfect for household use and processing of wooden workpieces. In the manufacture of the handle, as well as the body of this device, hard wood was used. This model is an excellent solution for home use and roughing and finishing of a variety of wooden surfaces. The knife width is 55 mm, the sole is 65 mm. Country of origin: Russia.
ROS, wooden, single blade (240x65 mm)
Advantages:
- Low cost (573 rubles);
- Ease of use and setup;
- Reliable case;
- Made from environmentally friendly material.
Flaws:
- Not suitable for complex tasks.
Rating of high-quality models with a metal body
BISON Professional No. 3 210x55 mm
A high-quality, reliable model produced by a popular brand, which is intended for household and professional use. This device can be actively used both when carrying out carpentry and when performing a variety of carpentry work. Thanks to the use of this model, a high level of quality of processed surfaces is ensured. It is characterized by a long period of operation, simplicity, and ease of use.
Equipped with ergonomic handles that provide a high level of safety when processing wooden surfaces. In the manufacture of the body of this model, cast iron was used. The cutting blade is made of high quality U8A steel, which has undergone a hardening procedure. The width of the knife is 45 mm. The dimensions of the sole are 210x55 mm. Weight - 1075 grams.
BISON Professional No. 3 210x55 mm
Advantages:
- Quality of materials;
- Reliable case;
- Ergonomic handle;
- Easy to adjust planing depth;
- High-quality knife blade (good sharpening).
Flaws:
- High price (1680 rubles);
- Some users indicate that the knife needs some fine-tuning;
- A bit heavy.
STANLEY 60 ½ 1-12-060
A high-quality device for processing the ends of workpieces, which is produced under a popular, well-known brand. Allows you to process even hard wood with high quality. High accuracy of adjustment of the cutting element is ensured by a special mechanism that allows you to set the work table in the desired position.
High-quality metal was used in the manufacture of the case, as well as the working components of this model. The handles have a high level of ergonomics and provide a comfortable, tenacious grip. The width of the knife is 35 mm, while its installation angle is 13 degrees. Sole length – 150 mm.
STANLEY 60 ½ 1-12-060
Advantages:
- Durable housing;
- Reliable design;
- High quality material;
- Convenient to use;
- Durability.
Flaws:
- According to some users, this model has slight irregularities in the geometry of the case;
- Cost (2328 rubles).
BISON Expert Metal semi-jointer 18505-35_z01
It is a reliable device that is specially designed for planing wooden surfaces, performing a variety of carpentry, as well as all kinds of carpentry tasks. High-quality tool steel was used in the manufacture of knives. It is worth noting that the knives have been hardened, which ensures a long period of their operation.
This model is equipped with a cast iron body. Supports adjustment of knives in two planes. Equipped with ergonomic, comfortable handles. Used for finishing planing. Knife width – 50 mm. Sole length – 350 mm.
BISON Expert Metal semi-jointer 18505-35_z01
Advantages:
- Good knife sharpening;
- Hard wood can be processed;
- Good ergonomics of the handles;
- Possibility of universal use.
Flaws:
- Price (3009 rubles);
- No frog;
- Some users indicate that when performing work, the handle can rotate, which creates some inconvenience and discomfort.
Sparta 210795 black 245x58 mm
It is an inexpensive, reliable planer that is perfect for processing small workpieces. Copes with removing excess wood layer and obtaining smooth surfaces in hard-to-reach areas of the workpiece. It is equipped with a high-quality cast iron body, which is distinguished by a durable, well-thought-out design that is not subject to deformation.
High-speed steel was used in the manufacture of the knife. The design of this device is equipped with a mechanism that allows automatic centering of the knife being used. It is additionally equipped with a chipbreaker, which allows for final processing of products.
Sparta 210795 black 245x58 mm
Advantages:
- Price (850 rubles);
- Dimensions;
- Case quality.
Flaws:
- Rough processing of the sole;
- There is a slight play on the lever;
- Low quality of components;
- Suitable as a budget option for home use, rough processing of various products.
Interskol R-110/1100M
The first hero of our TOP is Interskol R-110/1100M. This is an excellent plane, the planing width of which is 110 mm in 1 pass. It has high-speed steel knives, an aluminum alloy platform with high-quality geometry that ensures precision work, and also allows you to adjust the processing depth in the range from 0 to 3 mm. Among the design features of this planer, it is worth noting the V-shaped grooves in the front sole, which facilitate chamfering and the ability to convert the tool into a full-fledged planer. It is also worth noting that the plane has a smooth start and is equipped with a comfortable handle with a rubber pad and controls that fits well in the hand and saves the operator’s strength. Considering that this plane weighs only 4.5 kg, it will be easy to work with even for a long time. It is also worth noting that the planer comes with a spare belt, an adapter for connecting a vacuum cleaner, a spare set of knives and a device for straightening them. Those who have already acquired such a tool speak mostly positively about it, noting the good quality of workpiece processing, reliability, ease of use and affordable cost. For home use and small-scale work, such an electric planer will be just right.
- Nom. power: 1100 W.
- Plunge rotation: 16000 rpm.
- Planing width: 110 mm.
- Planing depth: 0 – 3 mm.
- Smooth start.
- Starting current limitation.
- Weight: 4.5 kg.
