DIY Network

Antique Planes and Drill Accessories: Antique Tools From "DIY Tools & Techniques" episode DIT-241

Author Sandor Nagyszalanczy joins host David Thiel to reveal a collection of antique hand planes that can still be used today.

A variety of antique tools, as shared by guest Sando Nagyszalanczy.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

• Some of the hand planes that Sandor uses are 300 years old (figure A). Like most tools of the time, they were hand-built by the craftsman who used them.

  Making the plane allowed Craftsman to custom-make their tools for their grip. They could make the exact size tool they needed and modify the design to suit special functions.

• A cooper's hand plane has handles on either side that allow it to be pulled. The underside and blade of this plane are curved (figure B) for hollowing the insides of barrel stays.

• Craftsman used the materials they had available to make planes. The scrub plane shown in this example (figure C) has an animal horn for the front grip. This plane also has bone inlays as wear plates to reduce wear on the tool.

• Some craftsman carved intricate designs into their tools (figure D).

• Sometimes hand plane bodies were made from iron and bronze (figure E). The extra weight of the tool adds stability to the cut to make it a very smooth-cutting plane.

• Another antique tool is a transition hand plane. It's part metal and part wood. In 1876, The Stanley Rule and Level Company made a transition plane with an image of the Liberty Bell commemorating the United States Centennial.

GUESTS :

Sandor Nagyszalanczy
Author, The Art of Fine Tools
150 Atherly Lane
Bonny Doon, CA 95060
Phone: 831-421-0191