"Low-angle" planes and spokeshaves

[scribe]

hullo carvers,

i would really appreciate it if someone could compare and contrast the pro's and con's of low-angle planes and spokeshaves to standard models. for what its worth, i'm carving boat paddles, and i'm trying to figure out which tools i should buy first. i've read mixed comments from paddle carvers. ideally, i want to get both versions. but cash is a little tight now, and i'd like to buy either a low-angle plane and spokeshave OR a standard plane and spoke shave first.

thanks so much.

[Dan S]

My understanding is that they cut across end grain better thatn a plane with a higher blade angle. I only have one low angle block plane and I really dont see all that much difference in its performance vs a properly tuned plane. The difference in angle is probably not more than 10 degrees.
The trick to using a plane is that it needs to be correctly sharpened and this means lapping the back of the iron until it is dead flat with a mirror like shine. Than flip it over and sharpen the bevel. I micro-bevel will also help maintain the edge better. The sole also needs to be lapped until is is also dead flat. This even applies to new planes. Once you have done these things you will most likely not have to do them again.
I prefer to buy older planes. Be sure to find one of good quality. The Stanley Bedrock series were very good. If you want to make one even better remove the factory iron and use a Hock iron instead. It is thicker, will chatter less and hold an edge longer.

Good luck,
Dan

[brian-bailey]

I have an assortment of planes and spokeshaves that I use.

Most of my planes are Lie-Nielsen. I have a variety of planes that are low angle, standard pitch, and a York pitch #4 1/2 smoothie. Each has it's purpose, but like Dan S said, I feel most folks would not notice much difference in them.

I do have a spokeshave that is made by Lee Valley (Veritas) that I'm partial to. It is a nice combination spokeshave. Here's a link to it.

Veritas® Low-Angle Spokeshave - Lee Valley Tools

I can say this about Lie-Nielsen tools, they're ready to go to work right out of the box.

[Dan S]

Just another thought. While you are shopping for tools pick up a set of scrapers and a burnisher. Once you get the hang of creating a bood burr on the edge they are a really efficient tool for very low cost.

Dan