Probably an intermediate woodworker (does anyone consider themselves expert? Haha) with a pretty well-rounded collection of planes that will get most jobs done - 4; 5; 62; 7; block; shoulder; 71; 271. The question I have is that I originally bought the 62 thinking that I needed it for shooting when it turns out that the 5 has more mass and does a great job (it’s also usually out on the bench so proximity is a factor). I’ll find myself grabbing the 62 if I feel the need for just a little more reference surface and the 7 would be overkill (so purely a luxury). Also, I’ll grab it if I notice that the 5 could use a quick sharpening. The problem I’m having is that I really don’t see all that much NEED for it; it’s basically a luxury tool that is annoying to adjust the iron on. Are there any situations where you really prefer a LAJP? On figured wood and end grain the angle of attack is basically the same as a high angle jack plane so I’m not totally convinced that there is an advantage. It’s a nice tool - pretty hefty and I love feel of the thicc iron; I’d just like to have a reason for it.

Hey gang, working on a wine cabinet and I’m trying to keep it clean and simple with the flex being craftsmanship, so I’m being very particular with the doors. I was shooting the rails and stiles to exact length and I literally had to do it in shifts because of the ache in my shoulder. They were only about 3/32 long, but it seemed to take forever with my #62. I was able to get some time in before work today and switched over to my #5 which made quick work of it. Both were sharpened at the same time so I’m wondering if the difference was just the angle of the bevel/iron. Compared to the 62 the 5 is a relative featherweight which was really nice, but unexpected.

Am I doing something wrong with the 62? This is really the only thing I use a LAJP for, so it’s making me wonder if it’s even necessary which I’m sure will be debated in the comments. Any thoughts to help me wrap my head around what’s happening here are always welcome and appreciated.

I’m a sucker for wax finishes; there’s just something about the tactile experience of running your hand over a perfectly smooth wood surface finished with wax IMO. So much so that I’ve been experimenting trying to find that just right combination of easy to wipe on, easy to buff off, smooth not waxy, and somewhere on the glossier side of satin finish that just begs to be touched.

I have very strong opinions about finish. So what’s your go-to? Is it homemade or off the shelf (no judgement)? Let’s compare notes.

I’m a sucker for wax finishes; there’s just something about the tactile experience of running your hand over a perfectly smooth wood surface finished with wax IMO. So much so that I’ve been experimenting trying to find that just right combination of easy to wipe on, easy to buff off, smooth not waxy, and somewhere on the glossier side of satin finish that just begs to be touched.

I have very strong opinions about finish. So what’s your go-to? Is it homemade or off the shelf (no judgement)? Let’s compare notes.

I looked everywhere for my right angle clamps. For like 2 weeks in the process of building a console cabinet for a friend. Anticipated needing them but couldn’t find them for the life of me. So I finally ordered a new set and when I went to find them a home, I opened up a drawer and there was the first set! I hate it when that happens!

Anyone ever order from KM Tools? I ordered a marking gauge on 12/21 and it looks like it hasn’t shipped yet. I’m trying to give them the benefit of the doubt with the holidays but there have been seven business days in between and they are not responding to my emails. Is this the norm for them?

I feel like we are all beginners for a long time in our own minds. I have been at it for a few years now with a variety of projects under my belt. Recently had the opportunity to toss my name in for a directory of makers at my chip’s school. It surprised me how long it took me to have the confidence to commit. The deciding factor was a flurry of requests from friends looking for things made.

So what made you think that maybe you’re better at this than you think you are?

I feel like we are all beginners for a long time in our own minds. I have been at it for a few years now with a variety of projects under my belt. Recently had the opportunity to toss my name in for a directory of makers at my chip’s school. It surprised me how long it took me to have the confidence to commit. The deciding factor was a flurry of requests from friends looking for things made.

So what made you think that maybe you’re better at this than you think you are?

I swear I’m so tired of everyone wanting everything walnut that it’s like I roll my eyes whenever I hear it now. I find myself very drawn to maple, probably as a protest vote. The curlier the better IMO!