Homemade router plan question

Re: Homemade router plan question

Joe......I tried years ago to build a simple router plane......one without a vertical adjustment......and use Lee Valley Veritas router blades......I was also trying to make one that would be better than the shop made router plane that Derek had made......I failed miserably at besting Derek......but, I did make a simple design that worked (it's not difficult to make a functioning router plane)......

it is difficult to make just about anything better than Derek thou......

what is important

I don't understand your question but I can tell you what is critical to success.  These planes can not take thick shavings.  And, when installing a hinge for example, the depth of the cut is critical. Hence, whatever you have for adjusting the depth of cut needs to be able to easily make fine predictable adjustments or you won't use it.  I found the Stanley so lacking in this regard that I bought a new LV.   

Re: Homemade router plane question

As Bill has pointed out, this type of plane is capable of rough, approximate work......but, a router plane with a very accurate depth setting mechanism can be used to give you very precise results and in jobs where you want that kind of ability like adjusting tenon thickness.

Making your own tools is a rewarding thing to do.......you will certainly learn a lot......and, sometimes, you might make a tool that is functionally the equal or even better than what you can buy......but, sometimes, there are reasons for the complexity of commercially made tools that are difficult to match. 

Re: what is important

Thanks everyone.  Just the kind of feedback I was seeking.

Re: Homemade router plan question

Joe, I have a few router planes. The Large from Veritas gets a lot of work, however I also made a small wooden one, and this gets as much use. The woodie does not have an adjuster, and is adjusted like a plane - with a tap of a hammer. What is more important than vertical adjustment is a depth stop. This allows one to set the final depth, and then you can creep up on it …

Note the use of Veritas blades. This creates a wide range of options …

There are plans available on my website (free):  http://www.inthewoodshop.com/ShopMadeTools/BuildingaWoodenRouterPlane.html

Regards from Perth

Derek

Re: Homemade router plan question

thanks Derek

Re: Homemade router plan question

Excellent tutorial on making a router plane, Derek. Thank you. 

Re: Homemade router plan question

BTW - Derek, you have given me the inspiration to make my own.  It's down on the list, but will get a showing here when completed.