Hand Planers
Get ready to explore the world of hand planers as we dive into the latest and most innovative tools for carving and smoothing your wooden projects. In this roundup, we’ll guide you through finding the perfect hand planer to make your projects shine.
The Top 15 Best Hand Planers
- Ryobi Cordless 18-Volt One+ Hand Planer (Tool Only) P611 — Experience maximum versatility and precision in woodworking with the Ryobi 18V Cordless Planer — a powerful, compact tool perfect for craftsmen and DIY enthusiasts.
- Bauer 15 Amp Thickness Hand Planer Portable — Craft smooth hardwood surfaces with the powerful Bauer 15 Amp 12–1/2 in. Portable Thickness Planer, featuring precision adjustment, easy auto-feed, and enhanced safety features.
- Ryobi Corded Hand Planer with GRIPZONE Overmold — The Ryobi 6 Amp 3–1/4 in. Corded Hand Planer is a powerful and versatile tool perfect for larger construction projects, featuring a grip overmold, safety lock-off button, and adjustable depth settings for precise woodworking.
- Chicago Electric Power Tools Hand Planer 7.5 Amp 3–1/4 in. with Dust Bag — The Chicago Electric Power Tools 7.5 Amp 3–1/4 in. Planer is a high-performance, long-lasting hand planer perfect for a wide range of woodworking projects, featuring a comfortable rubber grip and lock-off button for added control and safety.
- Taytools Smoothing Bench Plane #5 — Ductile Cast, 14–1/4" Sole — Experience unparalleled durability and precision with the Taytools 469607 Jack Smoothing Bench Hand Plane #5, crafted from nearly indestructible ductile cast iron and premium hand-rubbed Sapele materials for an exceptional woodworking experience.
- POWERTEC 8 Amp Portable Handheld Hand Planer with Dust Extraction and Rabbeting Guide — The POWERTEC HP1005 8 Amp Portable Hand Planer, 4–3/8-Inch offers a range of cutting depths, easy chamfer cutting, reversible dust extraction port, and convenient features for efficient woodworking.
- Powerful Portable Corded Hand Planer with Dual-Sided Dust Extraction and Adjustable Depth Control — Experience precision and power in woodworking with the POWERTEC 8 Amp Portable Hand Planer — the perfect tool for your workshop!
- Spear & Jackson CSP4 4-Inch Smoothing Plane with Beige & Black Handle — Craftsmanship meets durability with the Spear & Jackson CSP4 №4 Smoothing Plane, featuring a precision-milled cast iron body, 50mm wide high carbon steel blade, and brass adjustment screw for versatile carpentry tasks.
- Ductile Cast Iron #4 Smoothing Bench Hand Plane with Precision Sole — Experience perfect surface smoothing with this durable, #4 smoothing bench hand plane, featuring a British Standard-precision sole, Sapele knob and tote, and robust cast iron body.
- Cowryman Hand Planer for Woodworking — The Cowryman Router Plane is a versatile tool featuring a stainless steel body, easily adjustable blade, and a comfortable wooden handle, highly rated at 4.7 stars with 6.0 reviews.
- Lightweight, Versatile Aluminum Hand Planer — The Central Forge 66620 10 in Two-Way Combination Rasp Plane offers a versatile and lightweight hand planing solution with rapid smoothing capabilities, perfect for working with various materials.
- Grizzly Industrial 14" Serrated Plane Hand Planer — The Grizzly Industrial H7565 14" Serrated Plane is a versatile and beautifully crafted tool for smoothing, jointing, and applying finishes, featuring a corrugated sole, chip breaker, and adjustable mouth opening for optimal performance.
- Kakuri Japanese Hand Crafted Wood Planer — Experience the ultimate in wooden surface finishing with KAKURI’s Japanese-crafted Kanna Woodworking Plane, an essential tool for professional carpenters and DIY woodworkers alike.
- WoodRiver Adjustable Mouth Low Angle Block Plane for Precision Woodworking — Discover the enduring artistry of the classic WoodRiver Low Angle Block Plane in the Knuckle Cap style. This remarkable tool boasts an adjustable mouth and a high carbon blade, elevating it to the highest level of precision and craftsmanship.
- Old Salty 24-inch Classic Hand Planer for Woodworking — The Old Salty 24 Planer is a robust hand planer perfect for carving designs, offering a smooth and efficient cutting experience.
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Reviews
Ryobi Cordless 18-Volt One+ Hand Planer (Tool Only) P611
Introducing the Ryobi ONE+ 18V hand planer — a powerful and versatile addition to your power tool collection. With a cutting width of 3 inches and a depth of up to 1/16 inch per pass, this cordless planer is perfect for a wide range of projects. Its automatic kickstand ensures a smooth and flawless finish, while the convenient on-board blade wrench storage keeps everything organized and easily accessible.
The Ryobi ONE+ 18V hand planer is the perfect companion for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike, making it a go-to choice for all your planing needs.
Bauer 15 Amp Thickness Hand Planer Portable
I recently used the Bauer 15 Amp portable thickness planer in my woodworking project, and let me tell you — it was a game-changer! The heavy-duty power made short work of smoothing my hardwood pieces without any nicks or sniping. The four-column frame was rock solid and prevented any chatter or torsion, resulting in a satin smooth finish.
The smooth auto-feed feature made the planing process a breeze, ensuring a nick-free result. I was also impressed with the integrated safety switch, which added an extra layer of protection against accidental startups.
However, there were a couple of minor drawbacks. The precision gear and pinion lift system seemed a bit complicated to adjust, and I found myself having to make manual adjustments more often than I would have liked. Additionally, the depth of cut was a bit tricky to get right, especially for those new to planers.
Overall, I’m really happy with my experience using the Bauer 15 Amp portable thickness planer. It has been a valuable addition to my woodworking toolkit, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient planing solution.
Ryobi Corded Hand Planer with GRIPZONE Overmold
From the moment I took the Ryobi 6 Amp 3–1/4 in. Corded Hand Planer out of the box, I knew it was a different kind of planer. The first feature that stuck out like a sore thumb was the GRIPZONE OVERMOLD, a rubber molding over the grip that allowed for precise handling even in the most slippery conditions. This safety feature prevents accidental activation, which can not only save your work but also prevent damage to the equipment and yourself.
The hand planer from Ryobi has a powerful motor that can run up to 16,500 RPM, but this corded planer doesn’t require the hassle of dealing with a cordless battery-powered tool. The 6-foot cord can be plugged into any wall socket, making it versatile and convenient. To prevent any damage to your work surface or the planer itself, the planer comes with a REAR MOUNTED KICKSTAND that functions as a buffer between the tool and your work area.
While using the Ryobi 6 Amp 3–1/4 in. Corded Hand Planer, I found it fully adjustable, allowing me to move the depth from 0 to 1/8" in 1/96” increments. This feature ensured that I was always able to cut wood to the exact specifications of my project, and it made the process even more enjoyable.
However, as with any tool, there are both pros and cons. One downside of this Ryobi planer is that it can gouge the wood if you’re not careful enough. This issue can be easily solved by being more cautious or even removing the planer from the surface when you need to make a cut.
In conclusion, the Ryobi corded hand planer is a reliable, powerful, and user-friendly option for those in need of a planer that cuts efficiently, is easy to handle, and is safe to use. Its adjustability, powerful motor, and kickstand make it a great choice for both professionals and hobbyists alike. While it may have a minor flaw of gouging the wood when not used carefully, the Ryobi 6 Amp 3–1/4 in. Corded Hand Planer still stands out as a top-quality tool for any woodworking task.
Chicago Electric Power Tools Hand Planer 7.5 Amp 3–1/4 in. with Dust Bag
The Chicago Electric Power Tools 7.5 Amp 3-inch Planer with Dust Bag is a versatile tool that efficiently shaves and smooths wood for various projects without compromising quality. It features a durable 7.5 Amp ball bearing motor for long-lasting performance, a lock-off button to prevent accidental starts, and a base constructed of durable aluminum.
The planer comes with a comfortable rubber grip and a rubberized front head knob for better control while adjusting depth. Users have shared mixed opinions on the tool’s performance, with some praising it for its excellent value and ease of use, while others have raised concerns about its accuracy and power. Overall, the planer is a reasonable choice for those seeking a functional and reasonably priced tool for woodworking applications.
Taytools Smoothing Bench Plane #5 — Ductile Cast, 14–1/4" Sole
This #5 Jack Plane from Taytools is an impressive addition to any workshop. The ductile cast iron body and frog provide a sturdy and reliable base for the plane, while the premium grade oiled and hand-rubbed Sapele tote and knob add a touch of elegance. The sole is precision ground to the British Standard, ensuring a smooth and flat finish.
With an overall length of 14–1/4" and width of 2–1/2", this hand plane is perfect for cabinet makers and discerning woodworkers. It features a tough 0.120" thick and 2" wide tool steel iron blade, hardened and tempered to a Rockwell C of 55–60. The plane has an appropriate mass, weighing in at 5.45 pounds, and offers easy frog adjustment.
The cap is made from polished brass, and the yoke is a solid one-piece casting with a 45-degree bed angle. Overall, this hand planer is a great investment for anyone seeking a high-quality tool at an affordable price.
POWERTEC 8 Amp Portable Handheld Hand Planer with Dust Extraction and Rabbeting Guide
I recently added the POWERTEC HP1005 8 Amp Portable Hand Planer to my toolbox, and I must say, it’s become a reliable workhorse in my daily life. The two-blade cutter and 16,000RPM make it incredibly efficient at planing up to 4–3/8 inches wide.
One of the standout features is the adjustable depth, with a knob that offers 16 positive stop settings, allowing for precise cuts anywhere from 0 to 1/8 inch. This gives me the versatility I need for different projects.
The two V-grooves on the front shoe make chamfer cutting a breeze, and the reversible dust extraction port is a game-changer. It’s simple to switch the directional aim of the sawdust, and the dust extraction adapter is included to adapt most popular dust hoses.
The Tool Park Rest adds an extra layer of protection, preventing unintentional blade-to-workpiece contact during rest times. With all these features, it’s no wonder the HP1005 has such a high rating from other satisfied users.
Powerful Portable Corded Hand Planer with Dual-Sided Dust Extraction and Adjustable Depth Control
The POWERTEC HP1005V Portable Hand Planer is a versatile and powerful tool for woodworkers. This planer comes equipped with an 8-amp motor that provides superior control, impressive planer action delivering up to 32,000 cuts per minute, and two V-shaped grooves for precise edge chamfering.
Its smooth, portable, and lightweight design offers easy handling and ergonomic comfort, while its double-sided dust extraction port ensures clean and organized work areas. With adjustable depth knobs and various safety features, this hand planer is perfect for those seeking professional-quality results.
Spear & Jackson CSP4 4-Inch Smoothing Plane with Beige & Black Handle
I recently tried out the Spear & Jackson CSP4 №4 Smoothing Plane, and I must say, it was a great addition to my carpentry toolkit. With its cast iron body, precision milled base and faces, and a 50mm wide high carbon steel blade, this plane has been a game-changer in my cabinet work and general carpentry projects.
One feature that stood out for me was the brass adjustment screw, which made it easy to fine-tune the depth of cut. The heavy-duty 2mm blade was also a pleasure to work with, allowing me to create incredibly thin shavings.
However, I did find that the sole required some flattening before it was ready to use, and the blade needed some sharpening out of the box. But overall, this Spear & Jackson plane is an excellent tool for DIY enthusiasts and anyone looking for a reliable and affordable option for their carpentry needs.
Ductile Cast Iron #4 Smoothing Bench Hand Plane with Precision Sole
The #4 Smoothing Bench Hand Plane is a durable and versatile tool for skilled carpenters and discerning woodworkers. With a 0.120-inch thick, 2-inch wide tool steel body, made from ductile cast iron, and precision ground to British standards, this hand plane boasts a robust and reliable construction.
The sole is carefully machined with a 45-degree bed angle and a small throat that provides close control for achieving fine shavings. The lever cap, frog, and iron components are complemented by the sturdy Sapele knob and tote, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the tool.
While some minor issues with fit and sharpening were reported by previous owners, the overall quality and value of this #4 Smoothing Bench Hand Plane cannot be denied. It’s an affordable yet reliable option for those seeking a high-quality planing experience.
Cowryman Hand Planer for Woodworking
The Cowryman Router Plane has a sleek, stainless steel body that’s both durable and easy to handle. Its blade is easily adjustable with the help of a screw, allowing you to get the perfect depth for your woodworking projects. The comfortable wooden handle ensures a firm grip, even during long sessions.
Despite its small size, the plane is a reliable tool for anyone who takes woodworking seriously. Users have praised its build quality and reasonable price, mentioning that it’s a great value for its performance.
While some users have suggested an upgrade to the adjuster, overall, the Cowryman Router Plane is a well-designed and efficient hand plane that deserves a spot in any serious woodworker’s toolbox.
Lightweight, Versatile Aluminum Hand Planer
In my quest to find a reliable and affordable hand planer, I gave the Central Forge 10-inch Two-Way Combination Rasp Plane a try. This rasp plane is lightweight, with an aluminum body that makes it easy to handle and maneuver. The open port rasp cut steel blade allows for quicker smooth results on softwoods, foam, fiberglass, and gypsum board.
One feature that stood out for me is the movable handle that can be positioned vertically or horizontally, making it effortless to adjust according to the user’s preference. The blade, measuring 9.8 inches long and 1.7 inches wide, is substantial enough to slice through unwanted material without consuming much effort.
However, I quickly discovered that the blade did not last very long and needed frequent replacement. I also noticed that despite the lightweight body, the rasp plane felt a little unwieldy in my hands, making it less comfortable to use for extended periods.
Overall, the Central Forge 10-inch Two-Way Combination Rasp Plane is an affordable and effective tool for smoothing and shaping materials. The lightweight aluminum body and movable handle make it a comfortable and convenient option. However, the blade’s limited lifespan and the slightly awkward handling might deter some users.
Grizzly Industrial 14" Serrated Plane Hand Planer
The Grizzly Industrial H7565–14" Serrated Plane is a versatile tool designed to smooth and joint flat surfaces. Its corrugated sole reduces friction on the workpiece and can hold paraffin or wax for a finish. The plane features a chip breaker that minimizes tear-out and reduces blade chatter.
The mouth opening is easily adjustable with a knurled brass adjusting nut. It has a hardwood handle, cast-iron base, and frog and lever caps.
However, some users have experienced issues with the warped sole, misaligned frog, and thin plate iron. Overall, this plane offers good value for the money with proper care and adjustments.
Kakuri Japanese Hand Crafted Wood Planer
Using the KAKURI Wood Working Japanese Plane Manual Kanna Wood Planer in my DIY woodworking projects has been an absolute game changer. The Japanese wooden pull plane fits perfectly for surface finishing of boards and square timber. What stood out for me was its ergonomic design, allowing me to hold the large size with both hands, enabling easy and smooth pulling movements.
The high-quality Japanese materials used in crafting this tool make it stand out from others in the market, both in terms of durability and sharpness. The razor-sharp, Japanese high carbon steel blade is truly a marvel, and I appreciate how it keeps its sharpness even after multiple uses. The wooden body, finished with oil, adds an extra layer of durability and excellent wear resistance.
One thing I definitely noticed is the official English instructions provided by the KAKURI brand, making it easy for me to understand how to properly use and maintain the tool. The adjustable blade length feature is a pro for fine-tuning your planing work, but it does require some attention to detail.
Overall, I would highly recommend this KAKURI Wood Working Japanese Plane Manual Kanna to professionals and DIY woodworkers alike. Its precision and efficiency in surface finishing make it a fantastic addition to any workshop.
WoodRiver Adjustable Mouth Low Angle Block Plane for Precision Woodworking
I was recently introduced to the WoodRiver Low Angle Block Plane, and I must say, it lived up to my expectations. This hand tool has a classic design, with a knuckle style lever cap that both looks and feels comfortable in my hand. The 12-degree bed angle offered the perfect balance between ease of use and precision.
One of the standout features was the high-quality tool blade made from high carbon steel, with a 25-degree blade angle. It was easy to maneuver thanks to the 1–5/8W x 0.125T size. The adjustable mouth allowed for fine tuning, making it suitable for various tasks, from coarse work to creating whisper-thin shavings.
However, I did encounter a minor issue in which the stress relieved ductile iron castings had a bit of wobble. It didn’t significantly impact the overall performance, but I believe an improvement in this area would make the tool even better.
In conclusion, the WoodRiver Block Plane combines classic design with modern improvements, offering a fantastic experience for those in need of a high-quality hand planer.
Old Salty 24-inch Classic Hand Planer for Woodworking
The Old Salty 24 Planer is a sporting goods item designed for skilled carvers. Crafted in a sleek, hand-held design with a comfortable grip, this planer effortlessly glides over wood surfaces for precise shaving.
At only 2.05 pounds, it’s lightweight and easy to maneuver. However, be mindful that it may not be ideal for beginners due to its precision nature. And while the Old Salty 24 Planer’s affordability makes it attractive to those starting their woodworking journey, it might come at the cost of lower-quality materials.
Despite its flaws, the Old Salty 24 Planer delivers professional-level carving results when used appropriately.
Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right hand planer can make all the difference when it comes to smoothing and finishing woodworking projects. With so many options available, it’s crucial to consider essential factors such as blade type, body material, handle design, and more. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll help you navigate the world of hand planers and provide valuable insights to aid in your decision-making process.
Blade Type
There are two main types of blades for hand planers: cutting and skew. Cutting blades are more common and effective for general-purpose use. They have a straight cutting edge and move across the workpiece to shave off excess material. Skew blades, on the other hand, have an angled cutting edge, which allows them to cut more deeply and efficiently. However, they can be more challenging to control and are generally used for heavy-duty tasks.
Body Material
Hand planers come in different body materials, such as aluminum, brass, and steel. Aluminum planers are lightweight, easy to use, and generally more affordable. Brass and steel planers, while heavier, are typically more durable and provide better control. Consider the type of projects you’ll be working on and your own comfort level when choosing the body material for your hand planer.
Handle Design
A comfortable and secure grip is crucial when using a hand planer. Look for models with handles that provide a firm grip, even when your hands are damp with wood shavings. Some handles are contoured for added comfort, while others have a more traditional design. Choose a hand planer with a handle that fits well in your hand and allows for easy maneuverability.
Additional Features
Some hand planers come with additional features that can enhance their performance and usability. These may include adjustable depth controls, blade guards, or integrated dust collectors. Consider whether these features are important to you and your woodworking projects before making a purchase. Additionally, pay attention to the size and thickness capacity of the hand planer to ensure it can handle the materials you’ll be working with.
FAQ
What is a hand planer and how does it work?
A hand planer, also known as a hand plane or a block plane, is a handheld woodworking tool designed to smooth and flatten surfaces of wood, plastics, and metals by cutting away high spots, small splinters, and irregularities. It has a sharp blade with a flat bottom, which is held against the workpiece by applying pressure with the handheld handle. The blade is adjusted to the desired depth setting, allowing the hand planer to remove only a thin layer of material at a time, resulting in a smooth and even surface.
To use a hand planer, secure the workpiece on a workbench or other stable surface, and hold the hand planer at a shallow angle (around 30 degrees) against the workpiece. Apply pressure to the handle, allowing the blade to cut through the material. Maintain a consistent motion and depth setting throughout the process to achieve the desired result.
What are the different types of hand planers?
There are several types of hand planers available to choose from, each designed for specific woodworking tasks. Some of the common types include the block plane, the jack plane, the fore plane, the jointer plane, and the smoothing plane. Each hand planer type has varying dimensions, blade sizes, and cutting capacities, making them suitable for different applications and sizes of workpieces.
Block planes typically feature a shorter blade and are ideal for trimming and shaping small pieces. Jack planes are larger and offer more cutting capacity, making them suitable for flattening and smoothing larger surfaces. Fore planes are another option, often slightly longer than a jack plane, and they can handle both trimming and flattening tasks, making them versatile options for woodworking.
How do I know what size blade is appropriate for my hand planer?
The size of the blade on a hand planer is crucial for achieving the desired results and maintaining the tool’s effectiveness. Blade sizes for hand planers can range from 5/16 inches to 2 inches, with many factors affecting the choice, including the type of woodworking task, the size and thickness of the workpiece, and the desired level of smoothness. Choosing the correct blade size for your hand planer depends on your specific requirements and experience as a woodworker.
To determine the appropriate blade size for your hand planer, consider the mentioned factors and consult the owner’s manual or manufacturer’s guidelines for recommendations. Additionally, consider experimenting with different blade sizes to find the best fit for your individual woodworking projects.
How do I sharpen a hand planer blade?
Sharpening a hand planer blade is an essential maintenance step to ensure optimal performance and cutting capabilities. To sharpen a hand planer blade, follow these steps:
- Remove the blade from the hand planer, ensuring no debris remains on the tools. 2. Secure the blade in a vise, with the sharp cutting edge facing downwards. 3. Begin sharpening the blade using a file, holding the file perpendicular to the blade’s angle. 4. File the blade’s width in a sweeping motion, using long strokes to maintain even pressure and reduce the risk of uneven wear. 5. Periodically check the depth of the blade’s mouth and adjust accordingly.
Aim to sharpen the blade until it cuts smoothly and without significant resistance. Additionally, consider using a blade beveling guide to maintain a consistent blade width and angle for consistent sharpening results. Remember to sharpen the blade on a regular basis, depending on the frequency of use and desired level of performance.
What materials can hand planers be used on?
Hand planers are versatile tools that can be used on various materials, not just wood. These materials include wood, plastics, and even metals. When working with wood, hand planers can smooth and flatten surfaces to achieve a professional finish. They are also suitable for trimming and shaping wooden pieces, such as trim, molding, and furniture. For plastic materials, hand planers can be used to remove material and create smooth surfaces for bonding or painting. On metal, hand planers can be used to cut and shape metal sheets, profiles, and panels.
Regardless of the material, it is crucial to follow proper safety guidelines and ensure the hand planer is correctly set up for the specific material being worked on. Additionally, be mindful of the blade’s cutting capacity and select an appropriate blade size to achieve the desired results without compromising the integrity of the material.
How can I maintain and store my hand planer?
Proper maintenance and storage of a hand planer are essential for ensuring its longevity, effectiveness, and safety. To maintain your hand planer, clean it after each use, ensuring no debris remains on the blade or tools. Sharpen the blade on a regular basis, depending on the frequency of use and desired level of performance. Lubricate the moving parts, such as the blade adjustment mechanism, to prevent rust and smooth operation.
When storing your hand planer, keep it in a dry, secure location away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Store the blade in a protective sleeve or sheath when not in use to prevent accidental injury and damage. Regularly inspect the hand planer for signs of wear or damage, taking appropriate action if necessary.
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