When it comes to precision woodworking, having the right tools can make all the difference in achieving professional-quality results. Bench planes are indispensable tools for smoothing, flattening, and shaping wood surfaces. If you’re in the market for the best bench planes available on Amazon, look no further. We’ve compiled a list of the top 5 bench plane products that offer exceptional performance, durability, and ease of use.

To see our related product guide article, click here.

Top Picks for Best Bench Plane

WoodRiver #4 Bench Plane, V3

The WoodRiver #4 Bench Plane, V3, is a classic choice for both novice woodworkers and seasoned professionals. Its meticulously machined ductile iron construction ensures stability and durability. With a 2-inch wide A2 tool steel blade, this bench plane provides consistent cuts and smooth wood surfaces. The adjustable frog and mouth allow for precise tuning, making it versatile for various woodworking tasks. The comfortable wooden knob and tote enhance control and reduce hand fatigue.

Pros:

• Durable ductile iron construction.
• Precision-ground blade for smooth cuts.
• Adjustable frog and mouth for customization.
• Comfortable wooden knob and tote for prolonged use.

Cons:

• Blade may require initial honing for optimal sharpness.

Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Bench Plane

The Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Bench Plane is an excellent option for woodworkers looking for affordability without compromising performance. Its 2-inch blade is designed for precision woodworking tasks, and the adjustable design allows for fine-tuning to achieve desired results. The cast iron body provides stability, and the ergonomic handle ensures comfortable usage during extended sessions.

Pros:

• Affordable option for entry-level woodworkers.
• Adjustable design for customized cuts.
• Sturdy cast iron body.
• Ergonomic handle for comfortable use.

Cons:

• Blade may require sharpening out of the box.
• Some users may prefer higher-end features.

GreatNeck C4 Bench Plane

The GreatNeck C4 Bench Plane offers a versatile solution for various woodworking projects. With its adjustable blade control, you can achieve different levels of wood removal and smoothness. The cast iron body enhances stability and reduces vibration during use. The quality plastic ergonomic handles provide a comfortable grip for precise control.

Pros:

• Adjustable blade control for versatile woodworking.
• Stable cast iron body.
• Quality ergonomic handles for comfortable use.

Cons:

• Plastic handles might not be as durable as other materials.
• Some users may prefer finer adjustments for precision work.

Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Precision Smoothing Bench Plane

For woodworkers focused on achieving a high level of precision, the Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Precision Smoothing Bench Hand Plane is a worthy choice. Its 2-inch blade and wooden handles provide a classic look and feel, while the adjustable design allows for meticulous customization. The cast iron body ensures stability and consistent performance.

Pros:

• Ideal for achieving precise smoothing results.
• Adjustable design for fine-tuning.
• Classic wooden handles for aesthetics.
• Stable cast iron body.

Cons:

• Wooden handles might require more maintenance.
• Initial blade sharpening might be necessary.

Taytools 469614 Smoothing Bench Plane #4

The Taytools 469614 Smoothing Bench Plane #4 is a premium option designed to meet the demands of professional woodworkers. Its 9-3/4 inch sole provides stability and control, while the lapped sides and bottom ensure optimal flatness. The blade with Rockwell hardness of 55-60 promises longevity and sharpness. The Sapele handle and tote offer comfort during extended use.

Pros:

• Premium choice with high-quality construction.
• Large sole for stability and control.
• Lapped sides and bottom for flatness.
• Durable blade with excellent hardness.

Cons:

• Premium pricing may not be suitable for all budgets.
• Larger size might be less suitable for intricate work.

Conclusion

Selecting the right bench plane is crucial for achieving the desired woodworking results. Each of these top 5 products offers distinct features to cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, there’s a bench plane on this list that will undoubtedly enhance your woodworking projects. Remember to consider factors such as blade sharpness, adjustability, and construction materials before making your decision. Happy woodworking!

What Should You Look for in a Bench Plane?

When shopping for a bench plane, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you choose the right tool for your woodworking needs. Here’s what you should look for in a bench plane:

1. Blade Quality: The blade, also known as the iron or cutter, is one of the most critical components of a bench plane. Look for planes with high-quality blades made from durable materials like A2 or O1 tool steel. A well-made blade will hold its edge longer, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
2. Adjustability: An adjustable bench plane allows you to control the depth and angle of the cut, giving you more flexibility in achieving desired results. Look for planes with adjustable frogs (the part that holds the blade) and mouths (the opening through which the blade protrudes) for fine-tuning your cuts.
3. Construction Materials: The body of the plane should be sturdy and rigid to minimize vibrations and ensure stability during use. Cast iron and ductile iron are commonly used materials for plane bodies, as they provide both durability and weight to dampen vibrations.
4. Ergonomics: Consider the comfort of using the plane for extended periods. Look for planes with ergonomic handles that are comfortable to grip. Wooden handles offer a classic look and feel, while some modern planes might feature plastic or rubberized handles for enhanced grip and reduced hand fatigue.
5. Sole Flatness: The sole of the plane should be flat and smooth to ensure even contact with the wood surface. A flat sole helps in achieving accurate and consistent results. Some planes have lapped or precision-ground soles for optimal flatness.
6. Size and Type: Bench planes come in different sizes and types, each suited for specific tasks. The most common types are scrub planes, smoothing planes, jack planes, and jointer planes. Choose a plane size and type that aligns with the woodworking tasks you intend to perform.
7. Blade Adjustment Mechanism: Different planes employ various mechanisms for adjusting the blade’s position. Some use a lever cap, while others have a Norris-style adjuster. Consider which mechanism you find most convenient and intuitive for making adjustments on the fly.
8. Brand Reputation: Well-established brands often have a reputation for producing reliable and high-quality woodworking tools. Research reviews and recommendations to ensure you’re investing in a reputable and trusted brand.
9. Price and Budget: Bench planes vary in price range, from budget-friendly options to premium models. Determine your budget and balance it with the features and quality you need for your woodworking projects.
10. Additional Features: Some planes come with extra features like lateral adjustment mechanisms for fine-tuning the blade’s alignment, chip breakers for controlling wood shavings, and tote and knob designs that enhance comfort and control.

In conclusion, selecting the right bench plane involves considering factors like blade quality, adjustability, construction materials, ergonomics, sole flatness, size and type, blade adjustment mechanism, brand reputation, price, and additional features. By evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your woodworking goals and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a bench plane?

A bench plane is a woodworking tool used for shaping, smoothing, and flattening wood surfaces. It is an essential tool in woodworking, especially for tasks that require precision and fine finishing. Bench planes are typically handheld tools with a flat base and a sharp cutting blade that protrudes from the bottom. They are designed to be used on a workbench or a flat surface, hence the name “bench plane.”

Bench planes come in various sizes and types, each suited for specific woodworking tasks. The most common types of bench planes include:

1. Smoothing Plane (#1, #2, #3, #4): Smoothing planes are used for final finishing and achieving a smooth surface on wood. They have a short sole and a fine blade that takes thin shavings, leaving a polished finish. Smoothing planes are often used after rougher planes to prepare the wood for final touches.
2. Jack Plane (#5): Jack planes are versatile planes used for both rough and finish work. They have a longer sole than smoothing planes and are capable of removing larger amounts of wood while still producing a relatively smooth surface. Jack planes are commonly used for flattening and smoothing larger surfaces.
3. Jointer Plane (#6, #7, #8): Jointer planes, also known as try planes, are designed for flattening and straightening long edges or surfaces. They have a longer sole than other bench planes, making them effective for truing up boards for edge-to-edge joinery or creating flat surfaces for joining.
4. Block Plane: Block planes are compact planes used for smaller-scale tasks such as chamfering edges, smoothing end grain, and trimming. They are often used for precision work and can be held in one hand. Block planes are available in both low-angle and standard-angle configurations. If you want to read more about block planes, see our review article here.
5. Scrub Plane: Scrub planes are used for quickly removing larger amounts of material, especially when dealing with rough or uneven surfaces. They have a cambered blade that takes deep cuts to quickly shape wood before refining with other planes.

Bench planes typically consist of a body or sole, a handle (tote), and an adjustable blade or iron. The blade can be adjusted to protrude more or less from the sole, controlling the depth of the cut. The adjustable frog (the part that holds the blade) and mouth (the opening in front of the blade) allow woodworkers to customize the plane’s performance for different tasks.

Using a bench plane requires skill and practice to achieve desired results. It involves properly adjusting the plane, controlling the angle and pressure, and using efficient techniques to remove wood shavings and achieve a smooth finish. Bench planes are fundamental tools for anyone engaged in woodworking, from beginners to experienced professionals.

What is a bench plane used for?

A bench plane is a versatile woodworking tool used for a variety of tasks aimed at shaping, smoothing, and refining wood surfaces. It’s an essential tool in any woodworker’s toolkit, serving as a means to achieve precise and professional-looking results. The specific uses of a bench plane depend on the type of plane and its intended function. Here are some common uses of bench planes:

1. Smoothing: Smoothing planes are designed to create a finely polished and smooth surface on wood. They are used to remove any imperfections, tool marks, or roughness left by other tools. Smoothing planes produce thin shavings and leave behind a polished finish, making them ideal for final touches on wood surfaces.
2. Flattening and Leveling: Bench planes, particularly jointer planes, are used to flatten and level larger wood surfaces. This is crucial when creating flat boards for joinery or when preparing wood for glue-ups. Jointer planes are capable of removing high spots and creating a consistent, even surface.
3. Edge Trimming and Chamfering: Block planes are frequently used to trim or chamfer the edges of wood. They are particularly useful for creating beveled or rounded edges, which can enhance the appearance of the final piece and eliminate sharp corners.
4. Edge Jointing: Jointer planes are used to create perfectly straight and smooth edges on boards. This is essential for edge-to-edge joinery, such as creating panels or making wider boards by joining multiple narrower ones.
5. Shaping and Smoothing Curves: Depending on the curvature and radius of the wood, various bench planes can be used to shape and smooth curves. Convex curves can be shaped using a smoothing plane or block plane, while concave curves can be refined using a compass plane or other specialized curved-blade planes.
6. Removing Material: Scrub planes are designed to remove larger amounts of material quickly. They are used to quickly shape wood, especially when starting with rough or uneven surfaces. Scrub planes are efficient for initial material removal before refining the surface with other planes.
7. Sizing and Resizing: Bench planes can be used to size wood pieces to specific dimensions or to resize components that are slightly too large. This is particularly useful when fitting parts together in joinery work.
8. Creating Joints: Bench planes can assist in creating various types of joints, such as rabbets, dados, and grooves. By carefully controlling the depth and angle of the cut, you can achieve precise joints that fit snugly.

In essence, a bench plane is a versatile tool that helps woodworkers achieve a range of woodworking goals, from achieving smooth and refined surfaces to creating accurate joints and preparing wood for further construction. The type of bench plane you choose and how you use it will depend on the specific woodworking task at hand.

What is the difference between a low angle and bench plane?

The main difference between a low-angle plane and a standard bench plane lies in the angle at which the blade (cutter) is set in relation to the sole of the plane. This angle affects how the plane interacts with the wood and the types of cuts it excels at. Let’s explore the differences between low-angle planes and standard bench planes:

Low-Angle Plane:

1. Blade Angle: In a low-angle plane, the blade is set at a low angle, typically around 12 to 20 degrees from the sole. This low angle makes the cutting edge more horizontal to the wood surface.
2. Cutting Action: Low-angle planes are better suited for end grain and highly figured wood. The low angle of attack reduces tear-out and splintering when planing across the grain or on wood with irregular patterns.
3. Versatility: While low-angle planes excel at working with end grain and challenging wood, they can also be used for general smoothing and chamfering tasks.
4. Reduced Shearing Angle: The combination of the low blade angle and the angle at which the plane is held results in a reduced effective shearing angle. This can help minimize tear-out and achieve cleaner cuts.
5. Ease of Use: Due to the reduced angle, low-angle planes require less force to push through the wood, making them easier to use for extended periods and reducing user fatigue.

Standard Bench Plane:

1. Blade Angle: Standard bench planes typically have a blade angle ranging from 40 to 45 degrees. This higher angle provides more aggressive cutting action.
2. Versatility: Standard bench planes are versatile and suitable for a wide range of woodworking tasks, including flattening, smoothing, jointing, and creating edges.
3. End Grain Performance: While standard bench planes can handle end grain to some extent, they may be more prone to causing tear-out on highly figured wood or challenging grain orientations.
4. Control and Precision: The steeper angle of the blade in a standard bench plane can provide better control over the depth of cut, making it ideal for tasks that require precision.
5. Cross-Grain Performance: Standard bench planes may require more skill to prevent tear-out when planing across the grain. Proper technique and blade adjustment are essential to achieve clean results.

In summary, the choice between a low-angle plane and a standard bench plane depends on the specific woodworking tasks you need to accomplish. Low-angle planes are particularly advantageous for end grain and challenging wood, offering reduced tear-out and improved ease of use. Standard bench planes are versatile tools suitable for a wide range of tasks, providing control, precision, and flexibility. Consider the types of wood you work with and the specific cuts you need to make when deciding which type of plane to use.