Q: What is the #4 smooth plane typically used for?
As the most commonly used bench plane size, it is well suited to general smoothing, finish work, trimming parts and other everyday shop tasks.
Veritas #4 Smooth Plane

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Due to its versatility, the #4 smooth plane is the most commonly used bench plane. It is the ideal size for general smoothing, finish work, trimming parts and other odd jobs. It has enough mass to cut smoothly but is light enough to use without fatigue.
Like all our Veritas bench planes, the #4 smooth plane incorporates a frog that extends all the way to the sole. This unique design provides complete blade support, reducing chatter and allows quick mouth adjustment. It can be closed to a narrow slit for fine shavings and minimum tear-out, or opened for heavier cuts, all without removing the lever cap or other parts; just loosen two screws and set the opening with the thumb wheel.
The body is fully stress-relieved ductile cast iron. The surface-ground 9 1/2" × 2 1/2" sole is flat and square to the sides, with extra-large side wings for stable shooting. The hardwood front knob and rear tote provide excellent control and comfort. A combined feed and lateral adjustment mechanism make blade setting easy and accurate. The 2" wide lapped blade is a full 1/8" thick, made in your choice of A2, O1 or PM-V11 tool steel.
Patented. Made in Canada.
As the most commonly used bench plane size, it is well suited to general smoothing, finish work, trimming parts and other everyday shop tasks.
It weighs about 4 lb 6 oz, giving it enough mass to cut smoothly while staying light enough to use for extended periods without causing fatigue.
Yes, loosen two screws and turn the thumb wheel to set the mouth from a narrow slit for fine shavings to a wider opening for heavier cuts, without removing the lever cap.
It comes with your choice of A2, O1 or PM-V11 tool steel, each offering a different balance of edge retention and ease of sharpening.
| Materials | Stress-relieved ductile cast-iron body; hardwood front knob and rear tote; A2, O1 or PM-V11 tool steel blade (your choice) |
| Color/Finish | Black and brass |
| Dimensions | 9 1/2" × 2 1/2" sole; 2" wide × 1/8" thick blade |
| Weight | About 4 lb 6 oz |
| Country of Origin | Canada |
| Includes | Veritas #4 smooth plane |
| Package Quantity | 1 item |
| Certifications | Patented |
| Warranty | Lee Valley Satisfaction Guarantee |

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Veritas #4 Smooth Plane
Due to its versatility, the #4 smooth plane is the most commonly used bench plane. It is the ideal size for general smoothing, finish work, trimming parts and other odd jobs. It has enough mass to cut smoothly but is light enough to use without fatigue.
Like all our Veritas bench planes, the #4 smooth plane incorporates a frog that extends all the way to the sole. This unique design provides complete blade support, reducing chatter and allows quick mouth adjustment. It can be closed to a narrow slit for fine shavings and minimum tear-out, or opened for heavier cuts, all without removing the lever cap or other parts; just loosen two screws and set the opening with the thumb wheel.
The body is fully stress-relieved ductile cast iron. The surface-ground 9 1/2" × 2 1/2" sole is flat and square to the sides, with extra-large side wings for stable shooting. The hardwood front knob and rear tote provide excellent control and comfort. A combined feed and lateral adjustment mechanism make blade setting easy and accurate. The 2" wide lapped blade is a full 1/8" thick, made in your choice of A2, O1 or PM-V11 tool steel.
Patented. Made in Canada.