It was an honor to have you troubleshoot my plane. Thank you, Rex! I will take your suggestions to heart.

@TheCaptainmaim

3 жыл бұрын

Trusty, I got a Lie-Neilsen #4, in cast iron. I, too, had to adjust the frog forward a good bit. Don't feel bad, it took me a while to figure that out, as well.

@RexKrueger

3 жыл бұрын

It really was a lot of fun. I enjoy the high-end tools even if I don't really need them.

@g1mpster

3 жыл бұрын

Trusty Rusty, here's a couple more videos from Rob Cosman that you might find valuable to learn more about how this type of plane works and how to tune it to your needs. 👍🏻 kzread.info/head/PLqUOljnY0d9eW9evOCMDmtmV3ntlVvprT

@rustyspurs771

3 жыл бұрын

I was like, "Quit saying my name Rex"

@JeremiahL

3 жыл бұрын

Cool video idea.

"might end up being a kinda short video" *Looks at the time code* *grabs popcorn*

@RexKrueger

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, that didn't work out as planned!

@awboyer126

3 жыл бұрын

@@RexKrueger You mean, "As planed!" Yuk yuk

@short7440

3 жыл бұрын

@@awboyer126 Take my like

@BloodSprite-tan

3 жыл бұрын

it could be edited down to a 5 minute video. but then you don't get all the extra fun stuff.

@americanrifleman2992

3 жыл бұрын

worth the watch though,...Sweetheart will you get me some more popcorn, This short video isnt?

I've never touched a hand plane in my life, yet I just watched a 36 minute video about adjusting one with full attention. 10/10 presentation

Me: doesn't even know what a plane is. Also me: let's figure out how to fix a plane

@_ohmz_electric

3 жыл бұрын

As a sparky. I can relate.

@Glados1080

3 жыл бұрын

@@_ohmz_electric idk what a sparky is, but I took woodshop my freshman year so I know whats up

@suiseikyo

3 жыл бұрын

@@Glados1080 electrician in slang if you still want to know

@Jrez

3 жыл бұрын

@@suiseikyo I arc n' spark too, but for the purpose of joining metals.

@TheSpekkel1

3 жыл бұрын

@@Glados1080 You don't have mandatory wood working classes during elementary school in the US?

I happen to think the "doofus on the internet" is an amazing teacher. Thank you, Rex. I got so much out of this video.

@RexKrueger

3 жыл бұрын

I'm delighted that it was helpful! I was afraid it was too long.

@knate44

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, I concur! Rex I don't know if you have read Nick Offerman's stuff on woodworking, but he says a humble learning based attitude is the best way for all of us to get better at the craft.

@DataStorm1

3 жыл бұрын

what video? it's not even on yet.

@midgardlife

3 жыл бұрын

I totally agree with Amy. I have learned alot from you Rex. Especially the way you think, the way you simplify an issue so it is understandable and the solutions you come up with. You have a great woodworker/handtools channel. Greetings from Denmark 🇩🇰

@thomasarussellsr

3 жыл бұрын

This doofus is a first source site when I have an issue I need to research. I can usually find somthing that helps me think in the right direction even if the exact answer cannot be found.

Honestly, I think these days, youtube videos like yours or Paul Sellers is the Digital Age equivalent of hand tool woodworking apprenticeships. All the knowledge and different experiences of woodworkers around the world at our fingertips. All we have to do is grab a plane, a few chisels, some wood and follow along "one-on-one", with personal or video shown(like making the low and high benches) projects as out "homework" with growth and individual styles happening along the way. Videos by folks like you are completely invaluable and will continue to be for years to come.

@charlesrussell9312

3 жыл бұрын

I completely agree. I am self-taught in the school of trial and error, isolated from the few who could give me any advice. These videos have helped me refine my skills over the ones I picked up on in my teens and twenties.

@Sadowsky46

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah! Just imagine the efficiency and overall knowledge gain thanks to the internet!

@garethbaus5471

3 жыл бұрын

The main advantages of an apprenticeship over KZread being better access to tools and a experience person to help find the flaws in your technique and tell you how to fix any mistakes.

@Sadowsky46

3 жыл бұрын

Gareth Baus indeed! But imagine the scalability 1:1 vs. 1:1000s of apprentices. And an experienced teacher knows all the frequently made mistakes and can explain them in advance.

@garethbaus5471

3 жыл бұрын

@@Sadowsky46 I am not saying KZread isn't a better system, I am primarily describing why you want to seek out an in person teacher if at all possible.

Q: How do you spot a hand tool woodworker? A: They’re the ones with the hairless forearms.

@brokefisherman4557

3 жыл бұрын

TheIrishman46 I test my pocket knives like that

@soriyu5140

3 жыл бұрын

Broke Fisherman I feel like that would be more dangerous that shaving your hair with hand tools like planes

@brokefisherman4557

3 жыл бұрын

Soriyu I mean it might be more dangerous(I am not sure I don’t use wood working tools. However, you can infer that he takes the blade out fist to test. And I wasn’t saying it more or less dangerous I was pointing out that many other people test sharp stuff like that.

@woodfinchcrafts7267

3 жыл бұрын

How do you spot a CNC woodworker? They're the ones with the fingerless hands.

@billgiles3261

3 жыл бұрын

Rex ran out of hair on his head testing planes.

The last five minutes of this video are absolute gold, and applicable to every discipline, not just woodworking. When I interview for a new job, people ask me in a variety of ways, "Are you an expert?" I always answer, "You bet! Best you'll ever see!" because that's what they want and need to hear. But really, I'm ok. There are people who have pushed the rock up the hill higher than I have, and people who I have surpassed. The journey is the point, and once you stop pushing, the rock is going to slide back down.

Rex doesn't realize that he's the journeyman and we're the apprentices. Humility is such a good quality.

@garethbaus5471

3 жыл бұрын

He very clearly states towreds the end of the video that he hasn't completely mastered hand plane usage despite being fairly capable with one which makes it very clear he considers himself to be roughly equivalent journeyman level for this particular aspect of woodworking, and this is probably an accurate evaluation doesn't mean he can't teach others as he improves his technique.

@raypitts4880

3 жыл бұрын

this teacher wants to read my bit at the top teacher wants to go back to a teacher who knows what he knows.

Hey Rex I really enjoyed this video, even more than I enjoy you videos usually, the story you told at the end of the video made me want to go to the flea market and find planes and tools to restore. I'm 17 years old and this is my Third year of doing Woodworking, I used to go to a woodworking class but now I do it on my own in the garden, I'm right now in the process of building my first workbench. Your videos have always inspired me, thank you rex.

@joshualebreton7572

3 жыл бұрын

your way ahead of me there lol I'm 18 and I haven't made anything that wasn't in the shop

@ravingdog24

5 ай бұрын

You both have a little more experience than me, in hand tool wood working. Although, I have quite a bit more cabinetry experience. I've been building and installing high-end custom cabinetry since 1983. It has mostly been sheet goods with solid doors and fillers. I have always used a block plane to fine tune the scribing of the filler but just bought my first #4 smoothing plane. I am just about finished building a low Roman bench. I am 98% retired so I hope to catch up with you kids soon

"That struggle is the craft." The blacksmith agrees with the woodwright. Well said.

I used to get yelled at if I ever placed a plane with the blade down on the bench during my apprenticeship. I got flash backs every time you did it in this video.

@sleim754

3 жыл бұрын

I have never understood where this silly idea came from. The blade laying on the wood is much less apt to be damaged than if the blade is exposed. After all, you put the plane on the wood to cut so how can that cause damage?

@deadleaves3693

3 жыл бұрын

@@sleim754 When you sharpen a plane blade you are aiming for a razor edge with no burr (round over) going in either direction/side of the cutting edge. when you place the cutting edge on a surface you risk the creation of a burr, same can occur if you draw the plane backwards across the timber. This is what I was taught, this is what I have taught my apprentices. It probably has mild consequences, but I feel it's good practice to help maintain the cutting edge you have spent the time to achieve.

@chrisbrown-xz3wx

3 жыл бұрын

Made me wince each time. Haha.

@Gunrunn3rTV

3 жыл бұрын

@@sleim754 might be true if you're using your plane solely in your workshop. In reality you don't always have a clean wooden surface to place your plane, so most people I know made it a habit to put it on it's side.

@sarahhardy8649

3 жыл бұрын

Me too. I’d be absolutely crucified if I did that. I’m not even allowed to breathe on some chisels heh heh

Amen to your closing remarks. A friend of mine is a professionally trained luthier, and he is way less of a snob about his planes (modern-day Stanleys even *shudder*) than many hobbyists. It all comes down to knowing how to use your tools and how to keep them in good working order I guess.

@therealzilch

3 жыл бұрын

As a luthier myself, I second that. While it's easier to get good results with premium tools, if the setup is good, then you can do just fine with almost anything (within reason).

@scottswineford6714

3 жыл бұрын

Pretty sure I'm staying with the two grizzlys, the ones from your plane plans bundle and a couple from Paul Sellers and James Wright. Oh, and I either got incredibly lucky or there's been a twist in the universe but I got a $3.00 chinese spokeshave to function pretty well as backup for the one you made. Thanks Hoss.

@MCsCreations

3 жыл бұрын

Well, I'm a hobbyist myself, but I don't own any planes yet... But, for me, if they work they're good to me. 😬

@nigelmtb

3 жыл бұрын

I agree! I use two planes made by Faithfull. I've applied what I learned from Rex to set them up and use them correctly. I am very happy with the results even after using a far more expensive plane on a course recently. I am a hobbyist of course. Still, I like using tools that work. Mine do.

@gnarthdarkanen7464

3 жыл бұрын

I have a thing for trading tools around... as much as the wood-craft itself... I've restored and even built a few round-tops (guitars), but hardly consider myself a level of "craftsman" on those instruments... I have a couple hand-held box-planes, about a 20 inch jointer, and a couple Baileys... ALL of those planes were restored (aggravatingly) by me years before KZread was a thing... BUT I lucked out with a "wood-shop" course in high school and a few available teachers to slap me up-side of my head and show me where I was wrong.... (lolz) I have plenty of other planes, but those listed are "The regulars" in my shop... I also restore and rebuild power tools... Including a table-saw I put on a mobile cart because the table was "dead"... My brother's already asked "Dibs" on it, though... I think building a repertoire of gear you can build, improvise, troubleshoot and fix is VERY MUCH the craft. Do right for your tools, and they'll do right for you... Even a great driver doesn't need a Ferrari or Mazeratti to be a great driver... That's not to say any gear-head worth his salt wouldn't jump on the chance to drive one. ;o)

I am 'Paul Sellers taught'. I am 'James Wright' taught. I am 'Rex Figures it Out' taught. There are probably others. Restoring a plane is the best education one could get. Totally agree.

"The struggle is built into our craft." Very true. My experience has been that the internet has created the illusion of leveling the playing field, whereas in many cases what you really have is the blind leading the deaf. Not always, but enough to confuse, or even discourage a beginner. Nice, balanced video - good for you!

@raypitts4880

3 жыл бұрын

teacher could learn a few tricks and be a better teacher.

This is a strange place for the algorithm to take me.

@rabbitwithm2495

3 жыл бұрын

Bro his bags under his eyes really bothers me

@45rpm.

3 жыл бұрын

I own a Stanley but I never told the algorithm that :/

@andrewscubes2147

3 жыл бұрын

The algorithm knows I like random things

@carpenter1138

3 жыл бұрын

@@45rpm. if you looked at planes on amazon that's all it takes - Amazon talks to Google - Google talks to KZread.... Google also reads your Gmail and talks to all the others

@jeremymcclanahan2389

3 жыл бұрын

I argue that it is strange that you have not found this channel sooner.

The last five minutes of this was the best content you’ve created Rex. Some of the most sensible comments about expensive/premium tools and learning the craft. It was obviously heart felt and very diplomatically put. One question about the high angle of this plane though, you say it can reduce tear out, but isn’t that what a low angle plane is meant to prevent?

@alskjflaksjdflakjdf

3 жыл бұрын

Both this high angle plane and a low angle plane can achieve a similar effect. Remember that with a low-angle plane the blade is flipped over, so instead of the angle of the cut being determined by the angle of the plane, it is also controlled by the angle of the bevel on the iron. So to match the 50 degree angle of this high-angle plane, you could use a low angle plane (at 12 degrees) together with a bevel of 38 degrees to achieve a 50 degree cut angle. If you put a bevel of 33 degrees on the low-angle plane, you would have a cut similar to a 45 degree plane. The low-angle plane gives you more flexibility in the cutting angle, but getting the bevel wrong can really mess up how the plane performs. The high-angle plane is a little easier to sharpen because the cut angle is locked in at 50 degrees, and the bevel angle can vary quite a bit and it will still cut.

@clappercl

3 жыл бұрын

A higher angled pitch makes the plane act more like a scraper. A scraper will give you no tear-out as there is no "lift" to the shaving being removed. A lower angled plane (less than 45* pitch) increases tear-out because the shaving is pulled up farther ahead of the blade. Most low angle planes also have no chip breaker, the single most effective plane accessory to reduce tear-out. Low angle planes were designed for end grain work as the lower angle slices better and you don't really need to worry about tear-out. The modern hype about low angle planes is just marketing wank (though having to buy an extra blade to change angles rather than a new frog is quite nice to be fair). The old rule still applies; high angle for tricky grain, low angle for end grain. (High angle is >45*, low angle is

@1pcfred

3 жыл бұрын

It is the tale of diminishing returns. 10% gets you 90% of the way there. To get that extra little bit tends to cost a disproportionate amount.

@rufus7376

3 жыл бұрын

Well said man. Learning by doing. It happens less and less. I have had many hobbies where I get lost in the peripherals. I wouldn't have it any other way.

@grahamclarke3931

4 ай бұрын

Always learning I love this video, and as so many others have said, that last few minutes, how maybe buying your way out of experience will backfire eventually

He should have contacted LN and let them replace that plane. I've got 11 LN planes and they all worked straight out of the box. They hold an edge like no other plane I've owned. It was good to hear you explain things about real life in woodworking, especially to the beginners. Thanks for the efforts you put into your videos.

Rex, I am 78 and have been using a Craftsman no. 5 plane for over forty years. I learned more about setting up the plane in this video then I have learned by just experimenting and using the plane for years. I do know how to sharpen plane irons and chisels. But the actual set up has always been a mystery. You cleared up most of the mystery. Thanks for this great tutorial. And yes I still do some woodworking.

I bought a cheap Silverline plane from Amazon a year ago. After taking it apart almost a hundred times and refining refering to your videos it it starts to become a decent Tool. So thanx Rex from Germany.

Comments: Talking about how he put the plane on the table wrong Me: *an intellectual knowing planes are too big to fit on tables* Also me: *wondering why he has a frog in his plane*

@nathanwills2064

3 жыл бұрын

This is beautiful

@HugSeal42

3 жыл бұрын

I'm tired of these mfing frogs on this mfing plane?

@ChristophPech

3 жыл бұрын

Because everyone knows there should be snakes on a plane.

@jiin5276

3 жыл бұрын

phrog

@shannonmikus550

3 жыл бұрын

I cringe every time he sets the plane face down on the bench. What the heck! Wanna bang your nice edge on a flat, hard surface?

I'm approximately 3 minutes into the video and already Rex has it wrong. He gets to the box and refers to it as "The Ark of the Covenant" and opens it. While looking at it!!! Has Indiana Jones taught us nothing???? You don't look directly at the Ark when it's open!!! Just kidding Rex. Love your work. Please keep up the great content.

@TheJackOfFools

3 жыл бұрын

For real though, I was thinking the same thing. Like "Bruh, are you trying to get me to keep my eyes closed the whole video?"

@1pcfred

3 жыл бұрын

You can look if you are pure of spirit. Rex clearly is.

First time watcher, just found this channel. Not even halfway through the video I subscribed because you communicate your ideas very effectively. You're open-minded. Modest. You speak clearly. And I want to follow you through your journey of perfecting your woodworking. Great job. This is quality KZread!

I'm 67 years old now but I still remember one of the first things my wood working teacher said to the class on the first day during tool introduction.. This is his words. DONT PLACE THE PLANE FACE DOWN ONTO A BENCH! YOU COULD SIT IT ON SOMETHING METALIC AND DAMAGE THE BLADE. This is good advice that i have always followed. it is very easy to have a momentary laps of concentration and . . . resharpen the blade. love the video and will look for more.

@colinhamilton5120

3 жыл бұрын

I agree i never place it upright on the bench with the blade out, also learned early on in life. Very good video for setting up your planes explained very well.

@redwood_shores

3 жыл бұрын

Totally agree. Those multiple micro slappings on the wood would blunt the blade even without metallic surface.

@collarandhames

3 жыл бұрын

never mind planing long thin pieces of wood not supported. Am I the only one who is cringing?

@sleim754

3 жыл бұрын

Well...I taught for 31 years and I would reem out the student that placed his plane on the side.

@faheyplayer

3 жыл бұрын

Totally disagree, why knock the blade out of square. And since when does a stationary cutting edge designed to shave wood when resting still get dull? They taught school kids this because they trashed the cutting edges by being rough, so they recommended the laying on the side technique.

Hello Rex! The story you told about the experience you gained when trying to learn to handle the plane was exactly my story. I understand perfectly that the search for the control and correct use of the tool was my great master. This video has a great lesson and is therefore one of my favorites. Thanks again.

This video made me get out my old plane and try it out! Thanks!

Rex, I've been following your channel for about a year and i just want to say all of your content is fantastic, anytime I see someone struggling with planes or budget wood working i always try to send them your way. Your closing remarks of this video about your first plane and learning it inside and out were like a snapshot of my own experience. My first plane was a No. 5 Stanley-Bailey from my great grandfather who i never knew via a hand down from my dad. and it only mostly works because of your videos. I now have 4 planes and three of them are functional. I just keep refining keep looking for how do i improve, I really enjoy the way you go after problems.Thank you for your awesome content, Keep it up.

One suggestion: Any time tightness is backed off on something tight, you should tighten back up to the desired amount. What this means is, if you need to loosen something, loosen it more than you need and then tighten it back to where desired. It will hold its setting better. This applies to guitar tuning, auto parts to resist vibration, and even the plane at 8:05.

@thigo94

4 ай бұрын

even before reading the guitar tuner part i tought "this guy must play guitar" been using this technique for years and it helps a lot specially with low quality tuners that have a lot of play.

Why am I watching this, idk. But I'm 29 minutes in and I can't stop watching.

@crepamagistance

3 жыл бұрын

Legend

@thirdplanetman9468

3 жыл бұрын

Me too, I watched the whole thing . I'm grateful haha

@thirdplanetman9468

3 жыл бұрын

@Dial Square great statement!

You are one of the most honest, thoughtful and insightful guys on the internet. This helped me a lot; thanks

@raypitts4880

3 жыл бұрын

he left lots out to make the smoothing plane run better i know been there and and done it.

This is the single most informative video for planes I've ever seen. What a treat to have the tool components removed, examined, explained, reassembled, and tuned. Wow. Rex you are amazing.

I watched many of your videos as I was beginning, a year later I'm rewatching them all and getting so much more value the second time around with just a little bit of hands on experience and I agree so much with restoring and tuning a hand plane being the ultimate teacher on hand planes. All of what you talk about makes sense now after going through this exact same process myself with a 1960s stanley no5

Great work Rex. You are an extremely rare combination of engaging, informative, funny, and practical all at the same time. Great work. Thanks.

I learned how to wield tools after years of having to fix failing parts of my loft apartment. I went from barely able to hit a nail correctly to rehanging drywall, rebuilding shoddy construction, and making ladders and tables all because I had to stumble through the process of learning to build. You’re never more confident in your skills than you are when you know you can figure your way out of a mess.

@saramulry

3 жыл бұрын

JGD Awww, baby want a bottle? My ability to take care of myself bother you? Poor thing..

@wierdalien1

3 жыл бұрын

Cool, sounds like a war zone 😂

Thank you Rex, you have re-ignited my interest in wood work. Being more of a metal machinist, also self taught. I totally agree with you when it comes to learning your craft. Restoring and rebuilding my machine tool collection has made me a much better machinist. Thanks again

Another awesome video Rex, thank you! I especially appreciated your thoughts near the end. I bought my first plane (stanley made wards master #5) at an antique store years ago when my "shop" was a broken stool and a clamp in the back yard. After years of agonizing restoration work and struggle, I finally got my first gossamer shaving last summer and it was awfully sweet. Now I have four vintage planes! And I feel much more confidant. Your videos have been enormously helpful with that. Thanks again!

Started my apprenticeship at twenty two. You can’t buy experience out of a box. You must be taught, you must read, you must try and fail, you must listen and learn, you must watch your master. Most of all, you must do your homework.

@jaykeehan5813

3 жыл бұрын

True, my first plane (a Veritas) I actually read the manual about four times on different days and watched a lot of videos (I can actually name the parts of a plane w/o saying "doohickey and thingumabob). Did the same for honing. It really helped a lot. I do think getting a nice new plane was helpful b/c it's nice to have at least some basic experience before you can really troubleshoot vintage. I didn't want to be frustrated by a plane right off the bat. Now I think I can shop for some good used planes. I tied to learn some basic woodworking decades ago and ran into a dead-end b/c I didn't know where to get information. For instance, I got so intimidated by a job site table saw I bought that I ended up just giving it away. What you can learn off of you-tube for free from these generous teachers really is the fulfillment of what the what the internet should be about.

Rex, thank you so much for one of your greatest videos that teaches such a huge lesson about handplanes! I think it is an excellent idea to undertake solving a practical problem from real life in front of the camera, while taking the opportunity to convey your knowledge and experiences on the topic in their relevant natural context. Keep up the good work!

The last five minutes of this video was the most important part of it! Learning all the ins and outs cannot be bought! Thank you Rex for sharing your experience with all of us!

Like you, I started with old well used planes and knew nothing about them. I have to agree, especially with planes, there is no substitute for learning to make them work hands-on. You have been a big help. I never fail to learn something with each episode.

Dear Rex, I couldn’t agree more with you about the reward gained from struggling with poorly functioning tools. I, like you inherited a collection of hand-me-down tools from both my father and father-in-law. None of it worked well. Saws chopped their way through wood, not smoothly cutting it. Planes were like wielding a tomahawk at wood, not producing smooth swarf. I didn’t let that get the better of me and mostly through the advent of KZread videos, I was able to get an idea of how to condition these tools. When I got some files and a properly designed saw clamp, I turned a crappy blade into one that smoothly cut and with amazing speed. This was a fantastic moment because for the first time in my life, I had in my hands a saw that I enjoyed using. The next step was to turn my hand to reconditioning planes. I started with a large sanding board and turned an irregular sole and sides into perfectly flat and perpendicular surfaces. Sharpening the blades was another skill to hurdle and finally working with an errant chip-breaker to stop it from binding full of chips stopping planing with chips filling the gap between the blade and chip-breaker. I now get whisper thin shavings from most of my planes, including wooden block planes and my saws rip through wood in excellent time but produce nice straight lines. All of this I achieved through persistence, some native intuition in problem solving but mostly by soaking up knowledge meted out by fantastic people like yourself. Thank you. To answer the question: Do I need to buy expensive “perfect” tools? The real joy is turning something that is well built into something that works beautifully. The antique stores occasionally have wonderful old tools that have fallen into disrepair. Try them and hone your skills in reconditioning them and you will be amply rewarded. Happy woodworking.

You're hands down the best woodworking creator on youtube for all of us interested in this wondeful hobby, or a profession. Down to earth, detailed, smart, humble and honest. Keep going and don't change.

@RexKrueger

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you!!!!

@raypitts4880

3 жыл бұрын

teecher could do better and make it better for us students.

Rex, The last several minutes of this video should be a requirement for all new and intermediate wood workers to watch. It was that good and honestly the absolute best advice I have ever heard about why one should put in the time to truly learn a craft from the ground up. Any craft. Great video. Great advice and thank you for your honesty and humbleness.

That was a great vid Rex. I especially appreciated your summing up at the end. You are totally right about knowing the tools inside and out. That’s what makes them useable to a craftsman.

I don't do woodwork but I suddenly feel the need to buy a bronze plane simply because to me it's a beautiful piece of art. Great video.

Sweet Fancy Moses! Lie-Nielsen didn't pack the plane THAT securely when they sent it to him!

@RexKrueger

3 жыл бұрын

You gotta give the man credit; it got to me in one piece!

@gnarthdarkanen7464

3 жыл бұрын

My brother would've wrapped the inner box into a duck-tape armored casting and packed that box full of styrofoam... I've had a rougher time opening a birthday present with boots in it. ;o)

Rex Krueger, you brought a tear to my eye at the end of this video, explaining the true heart and soul of a craftsman, and the discovery process as part of creation or repair. I am a long time technician exploring a new craft, I am so happy I found your channel. Kudos!

I totally agree with your closing statements. Knowing how fix your tools as they wear is a woodworking skill that will save you time and frustration. Sending it to a guy on the internet isn’t always going to be an option to get your repairs done. I do appreciate that you were able to do this for him. I enjoyed the content, the review of the plane that maybe you wouldn’t normally put on your channel unless a viewer sent it to you, and review of plane repair and use fundamentals.

I like “the doofus on the internet”. That’s why I am a patron. But I got a great laugh out of that line. Still chuckling. Personally, I rather enjoy struggling with the tools, especially the restoration and setup of hand planes. There is great satisfaction out ending up with a tool that works well.

I tried SO hard to get a cheap $20 smoother from the big box store working well. I tried for weeks. I'd flattened it by lapping, toyed with every setting I could, and every time I would get grabby awful cuts. I'd ease in from no cut, a bit of sawdust, to big grabby tear out. I pushed so hard I moved my bench across the floor. There was no in between! I'd given up, but got it out a year later for another reason. I took it apart and finally figured out the problem after putting it back together so many times... The frog had a single machine burr that held it off the bed. When the blade finally caught, the frog would rock forward and nose dive the blade! A single swipe with a file and I was taking gossamer shavings in seconds.

@1pcfred

3 жыл бұрын

Cool story bro. The mechanically adept are sensitive to that sort of thing. Planes are how they are because that's how they have to be. Any bit out of whack and they just don't do what they're supposed to. The iron bedding in on the frog is critical for operation. The frog bedding on the plane body is crucial too. Everything needs to be solid. Otherwise it flaps in the breeze. Sounds like you didn't have a plane, you had a toggle.

@SuperPhunThyme9

3 жыл бұрын

@@1pcfred Hmm maybe I can use this stuck toggle to do some planing with.

Closing remarks about having a teacher is spot on. I spent a year tying to figure out card scrapers. Super easy tool but I just couldn't get them to work! Did a 3h lesson at Lee Valley with a skilled mentor and BOOM! I've been making perfect curles ever since. Lot to be said about self taught, but once in awhile having a skilled hand to guide you is great! I've restored about 20 planes to beautiful user condition and I agree there too; makes it easier to use when you know how their guts work 👍 Love the content Rex, keep it up! (And a quick pester to get the blacksmithing content back again 😁)

So refreshing to find someone who is open minded and honest about where they're coming from. Subscribed.

That came at the right time for me :) I just used my Faithfull plane nr. 4 for the first time a couple of days ago. I was elated. Then I saw this and realized that I'd forgotten a lot of the tricks from earlier videos. My plane now makes some ultra fine shavings. It's far from ready, though, because I need someone to help me grind the chip breaker. It's really crooked and I've only been able to sand it a little better (I even used a hand file ... ). There's still light coming through between it and the blade at the sides but not in the middle any more. I'm on the right track! Thanks, Rex!

@RexKrueger

3 жыл бұрын

Keep working at it! You get there in little steps!

@thomashverring9484

3 жыл бұрын

@@RexKrueger Thanks :) It's really true that you learn more, when you have to fiddle to get your tools to perform properly. It also makes you more aware, I think, of how your tools actually work.

Nice tip with checking the gap. I often having issues with shavings getting jammed between the 2. Id also try to see if they could send a replacement cap.

@justinsane332

3 жыл бұрын

They would, or they would fix his free.

@1pcfred

3 жыл бұрын

@@justinsane332 yeah that stiff lever cap was definitely bad press for Lie Nielsen. You never know which of your tools are going to end up in a KZread video. Mistakes happen. But what sets a good company apart from a bad one is what they do to fix mistakes.

@justinsane332

3 жыл бұрын

@@1pcfred for sure, but having dealt with their service department myself, I can attest to the fact that this is something they would take care of immediately, without charge, if contacted. Basically as long as it wasn't abuse or negligence this company will fix it. Most repairs we do on our own, but having that piece of mind that they will take care of you for the life of the tool (this is important, as your tool outlives you, the next generation is also Protected)

@Superevilfrog

2 жыл бұрын

@@justinsane332 After a week's work of ownership I dropped my low angle block plane and bent the adjustment screw, they sent a new one free of charge even after I told them I dropped it. So yeah, I think they would take care of it.

@justinsane332

2 жыл бұрын

@@Superevilfrog dropping isnt abuse, but indeed, thats why we pay for these things. its worth it!

This is the first video I've seen of yours. You speak like you have the knowledge of a master craftsman and you are very humble. Pleasure to watch your video.

think ive used a plane once in my life, my dad was a woodworker and fiberglass wizard. i enjoyed watching your video none the less! makes me miss my dad so much more.

Rex, I certainly agree with you that learning how to “fettle” your tools is an essential part of hand tool wood working. I get a lot of satisfaction in taking an old No. 4 and getting it it to do what a $350 Lie Nielsen will do. That doesn’t stop me lusting after shiny things though 😉

@1pcfred

3 жыл бұрын

No old Stanley is ever going to do what that Lie Nielsen can do. Close, but not exactly. The question remains, is it close enough? And like Rex pointed out except at the very high end yeah the old bomber tools will get you most of the way there. Which is as far as most of us really need to go.

@bsdnfraje

3 жыл бұрын

@@1pcfred So true! Even an overpriced old Stanley cant empty a wallet nearly as fast!

@1pcfred

3 жыл бұрын

@@bsdnfraje I never bought an overpriced old Stanley plane. The most I ever paid for one was $20 for a 606 Bedrock. I've bought them for as cheap as twenty five cents. The average is somewhere around five to ten dollars.

@bsdnfraje

3 жыл бұрын

@@1pcfred Yes, thank you, i knewi was correct. But your corroboration is appreciated.

@1pcfred

3 жыл бұрын

@@bsdnfraje if I had every other tool I ever wanted I wouldn't mind getting a Lie Nielsen plane then. I still have a ways to go before I'm in that position.

Howdy Rex!! I've been hankering for a touch more from your "Forged in Wood" series. I appreciate ALL your content and hard work, just wondering if the series was retired? Keep up the amazing work!!

One of your very best presentations on hand planes. The last few minutes on learning tools as an important element of the craft is absolutely true. I spend at lot of time working with my tools, sometimes more than working with the wood, and get enjoyment equal to working a wood project.

This may be the single best teaching video on both the philosophy and the practical details of a high angle plane. Rex, you are a gifted teacher and communicator. Thanks

When I went to BMW automatic transmission school we were told to use toothpaste to free up valves in the valve body. A little toothpaste ought to free up that lever without removing a lot of metal.

@alskjflaksjdflakjdf

3 жыл бұрын

I was thinking along the same lines. Something like a lapping compound would be perfect for loosening up that lever. I don't know if it would get in by the pin part of the hinge and cause problems.

@twh7011

3 жыл бұрын

Great tip!

@lajohnson1ly

3 жыл бұрын

This is where I use the travel-size tubes I get at my dentist's, where they hesitate and do a quick eye-roll because I always insist on the original formula no-frills Crest.

@paulwestlake4278

3 жыл бұрын

And there was me would have looke to remove the lever and lap it...

@MYshamanEYE

3 жыл бұрын

@@alskjflaksjdflakjdf no ,..you were correct i had same issue and thaty how i fixed it ,..lapping compound,..worked perfectly

Being a plane with a high angle frog, the advance on the blade is a little harder to control. But with some time on the plane that should become a none factor soon. Also, some people try to set a very close chip breaker and very closed mouth at the same time. Doing both will choke the plane and cause poor, intermittent cuts. Finally, my bench plane set is made up of both Stanley Bedrock (all restored myself) and Lie-Nielsen. Across the set the Bedrocks were inferior, to the point I didn’t want to use them . . . . until I replaced the original blade and chip breaker set with Hock sets. Now there doesn’t seem to be a difference.

This video fixed the issue I was having using my own bevel down plane. Thank you for this, you continue to educate us!

At 36:00 you perfectly summarized my love of my Shopsmith tools. What a lot of people look down at as “Too much time to change-over” I’ve always have seen as quality time with the tools I love. This was an excellent video! Scott

Putting the chip breaker "Close to the Edge" is something to say "Yes" too.

@chrisjohnson4165

3 жыл бұрын

That was such a great joke! Yours is no disgrace.

When you buy a graphics card, but it ends up being a plane.

Hey Rex - the last 5 minutes of this video was some of the best I've seen on your channel. Your comments on the craft and journey being as important as the destination (my words) are spot on. Thanks. It was also good to see a Paul Sellers "rag in a can" make it on to the video. Nice.

The last 5 minutes of this video are some of the best content I've ever seen about learning a craft, any craft.

Sooo.... do you use these on your head to make it perfectly round because damn is that impressive

I was always taught to set the plane on the table on it's side, so the blade isn't against the bench and whatever detritus is down there....? Thoughts??

@ianmoone2359

3 жыл бұрын

You and the rest of us who learned a trade and did woodwork at school before that. Any idiot who sits a plane down on its face has no business handling a Lei Neilsen or any other plane to be honest. It takes just one piece of metal swarf on the bench from a previous project to destroy all the effort of sharpening the blade to a razor edge. It’s the first thing your taught when picking up a plane, it should be laying on its side when you pick it up and it should be put back laying on its side. As with so much of youtube these days - it’s the blind leading the blind. 🙄

@1pcfred

3 жыл бұрын

@@ianmoone2359 you could always clean your bench sometimes.

@ianmoone2359

3 жыл бұрын

Paul Frederick Metal swarf has a way of finding its way into the wood fibres - it can be a small as a bit of galvanising that came off a flat head clout nail when you pulled it out of a piece of wood with a claw hammer. Something heavy gets dropped on top of it unseen and before you know it that little shard of metal is imbedded into your work bench. You really would have to machine your bench down every other day to get to new wood if you want to make a habit of putting a plane down on its face. It’s just not done by any tradesman, it’s something you learn in first year wood work at high school & certainly in an apprenticeship. Those who know, (I’m not the only one) remember their training. I’m not the first to comment. There’s things like no jewellery or loose clothing around machinery that spins, no long loose hair and so on. It’s the safety and good practice basics that get taught early & tend to stick with you through life. I get it that these days few wood workers own hand planes, they pick up a rotary hand plane in preference. It would be nice to see the old school lessons not lost is all. People do like to share knowledge & skills on KZread & having a monetised channel is all the rage for “passive income streams”, so I’m not knocking it. I do see a lot of the blind leading the blind however, where the need to constantly produce content sometimes has people with zero experience “having a go” and showing others how they do something when frequently it’s not “best practice”. This is probably one of those times. Good knowledge on setting up the plane just a lack of experience or teaching on best practice in handling one. Non of us are too old to learn. Heck, I’m so old I’ve forgotten more than I know these days. 😉

@1pcfred

3 жыл бұрын

@@ianmoone2359 tradies are dumb and nothing they teach kids in high school is worth spit. I think the real issue here is you just don't know how to sharpen. Because if you did then sharpening an edge would not be a big deal to you. Zinc embedded in wood, really? Damaging a carbon steel blade? I think you're going to have to produce some evidence before I believe that's going on. USB microscopes are cheap now. Maybe if you saw what's going on at the edges of tools you'd be more knowledgeable? Go check out some of my man David W's videos here. He'll get you the skinny on tool sharpening. He made a video the other day where he honed a plane iron on a cheap India stone and buffed it. Thing cut like a laser. Edge had a polish on it superior to what you can get off a 12,000 grit Shapton glass. Which is like a $150 stone. He's used thousand dollar natural Japanese stones too. He really has a thing for this one Washita stone he's got. It's kind of cute. But he proved that you don't even need that. You do need to know what you're doing though. Search david w unicorn edge here. You'll find him.

I liked your wrap up about learning the tools being such a major part of the experience. I have found that true in my endeavors on other skills. Thumbs Up!

Rex, Thank you! You’ve made a lot of content that I have loved. This video was the best and made me feel better about the struggles learning the craft! Thanks

Sounds like you just need to work the "newness" out of it. In my shop, the problem is solved by just using old stuff thats nice and loose!

@johncoops6897

3 жыл бұрын

Similar to women, I guess....

@SuperPhunThyme9

3 жыл бұрын

[Insert hooker gag]

Rex: talking about how he said the plane was leaving scratches and getting tearout Me: wait that shouldn't happen Me: also realizes my plane was 20$ from HarborFreight

@anonymousaccordionist3326

3 жыл бұрын

Haha, sucker! I payed $17 for mine at Home Depot! In all honesty, I am actually pleasantly surprised by how well it performs, entirely because of the direction and instruction of Rex and Mr. Sellers. I still need to *hone* my sharpening skills (pun very much intended), but even with my own shortcomings it exceeds my inexperienced expectations.

Totally agree with that bit at the end about learning and mastering your tools is the craft. I’m terrible at woodworking, but I love it cause I love fixing old tools to the level that allows me to make something that looks good. Great stuff as usual, man.

I have always looked at premium tools as for someone who is going to use it every day. a mechanic should spend the money on nice wrenches and other tools because they have to use them every day. but a person who fixes something on their car a couple times a month is served just fine by a set of craftsman or other lower brand tools.

“This might be a short video” *36 minutes later-*

I dont know anything about woodworking but I really enjoyed how passionate you are for your craft and your ability to translate that to the audience.

this video is all about craftmanship, you succeeded. Great video

KZread: I recommend you watch this.. Me: but i dont even woodwor **click** Me: well it is 4am so..

@RexKrueger

3 жыл бұрын

Maybe KZread is trying to tell you something....

@artstudios6622

3 жыл бұрын

I think they are

Why is this recommended to me? That’s not a plane is it? A plane can fly right? I’m so dumb 😂

@adamingi

3 жыл бұрын

A plane can mean different things

I know nothing about woodwork, or planes, just an absolute joy to watch someone doing something they love, keep it up!

So much common sense & resulting comfort in this video. Thanks for a timely video my friend!

first lesson in the vocational school is put the plane on its side so that the chisel does not make contact with your worktop.Nice video further. Cauwenbergh Rudy Belgum Europe

@jonathangwynne1917

3 жыл бұрын

That's what my grandfather taught me when I was little.

@andyf8503

3 жыл бұрын

kzread.info/dash/bejne/eYOgrritqpa4c6w.html

@22KaTsh

3 жыл бұрын

LOL 7th grade shop teacher, but yeah... 😱

I was taught to set a plane down on its side, not on the blade.

@redwood_shores

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, sir! I'm really disappointed with that in the video.

@johntankard469

3 жыл бұрын

It drove me nuts , he must have skipped lesson one

@faheyplayer

3 жыл бұрын

A myth. Setting a plane down on its side is something they used to tell school kids to do; otherwise they would trash the cutting edge by setting it sole down and possibly dragging it, dulling the blade. A more knowledgeable woodworker knows to set the plane down gently on its sole. If you lay it on its side, the tiniest bump will readjust your blade out of square.

@AJHoff-vr1xh

3 жыл бұрын

@SciGuy I was taught that it was ok (not great) to set the jack plane on the face. But do not set the finishing planes down on the face. If I did I spent the rest of the day sharpening every tool the shop.

I love all our videos... and this one is great too, but the last 2 minutes are the key to LIFE and your message is gold.

I have no idea why KZread suggested this to me, I've never worked with wood or bought any tools, but this video was awesome! The production quality is high, you have good command of your cadence and your tools, and you explain things in a way that even a complete ignoramus like me can understand. I've subscribed to the channel, and I can't wait to see more content!

35:05 I’m not sure I agree with that being their motivation. They make a premium product to promote reliable and repeatable results. As I’m sure you know from seeing hundreds of planes, the price also goes towards precision milling of bodies and blades made of higher quality alloys. I don’t believe the expectation this day and age should be to buy a plane that then requires an hour or two flattening and honing just to get it to work properly (not to mention the ongoing tinkering due to loose set screws and sloppy fittings). Maybe if you were buying tools 50 years ago or look for the cheapest thing made overseas that’s your baseline, but there are better options today. I have a full time job and am just getting into woodworking. My skills are novice at best. But I will pay more to buy a few premium planes that will last a lifetime (and my kid’s lifetime) vs dozens of janky planes that require all kinds of attention. I want to spend my spare time woodworking, not working on my tools. I also want a baseline for how a plane SHOULD perform. I’ll be adding in enough user error that I don’t need to amplify that with a mediocre tool. Respect for how you had to learn the hard way; you had to figure out how to make an inferior tool do its intended job. However, I don’t think that’s a necessity for gaining an understanding for how a tool should function. Maybe later in life I’ll have time to acquire and restore older or cheaper planes to yield a results similar to that of a LN or LV, but that’s not where I’m at right now

Please stop with the premier vids. I get all excited to watch some woodworking, but it’s just a picture that’s ends up being buried under other actual videos in my feed until I forget that it is even there. I guess KZread’s algorithms favor channels who use their features, but maybe only post the premier notice a couple hours before the video

That was an amazing video! I know nothing about planes, little about woodworking, but it is _so_ interesting to see someone knowledgeable examine an object, troubleshoot it, and on the way explain why certain things need to be the way they are. And the lessons at the end are really universally applicable - you can invest in tools as much as you like, but they won't necessarily make you a better creator. You need to understand the underlying principles, and those you get from examining, learning, and practice.

Brilliant video with a great conclusion - "Know your tools" being a big part of the craft - Thanks Rex.

one video, so well done I will subscribe. I get planes from wherever I can. I re-do the lacquering, nickel plating, brass polishing, sharpening. I don't use them much, but I enjoy making a work of art out of a tool I can still use.

ABSOLUTELY one of the most informative videos on hand planes. Thank you.

Rex, Thank you a thousand times over for your almost philosophical observations about the relationship of tool craft to woodcraft. I have followed a similar arc in my explorations of this wonderful avocation and reached a similar conclusion some time ago. People who know me well were mystified that I spent so much time caring for and sharpening my very simple mid level tools. When I explained the near numinous aspect of a finely wrought blade virtually no one except one of my sons understood where I was coming from. Anyway, you have exceeded yourself with this one. Keep up the good work. And again - Thanks!

This was a fantastic video. I really like how you went through all of the steps to solve the problems. This would be a great training video. One of my most favorite videos so far. Thank you very much.

Such a very helpful video! As a vocation I am an electrical engineer but I also own a custom woodworking/furniture shop. I rarely use the Stanley planes I own unless absolutely necessary because I have always had a terrible time setting them up. I am an old man now but I remember asking my dad about how to set it up and he basically said “just play with it and figure it out”. So obviously I didn’t. But I have learned more about my planes today than I even have and I am going to give it another shot. Thank You! I wish good health and all the best to you and your family! I

Rex, THANK YOU! I just got into the woodworking and am still struggling with my old vintage Stanley. I'm on the verge of buying LN plane, and you just showed that I don't need the extra feature of LN. You're the man!

Thanks to this video i finally got my father's old stanley #5 working. Needs sharpening and restoration still but it works. Hasn't been used in 40 years.

Your expertise and honesty about these tools and your experience is supremely beneficial to beginners like me. Thanks so much for taking the time to produce this excellent content!

Great video man. I enjoy watching the content you create. This video fits well with my week, as I have been teaching one of my guys to make sash over the last few days. A lot of that process simply involves helping him understand how to dial in the machines that we use for this. It just so happens that two of these machines are the two oldest functioning tools we have in the shop. Neither of them has really precise adjustments, and requires a bit of trial and error to set up perfectly. Watching someone new to a lot of the process reminded me how valuable it is to have an understanding of how a tool functions and relates to the material. At any rate, your story about your experience struggling with your first hand plane, and the lessons learned from that struggle, are spot on.