Setting the Blade

A sharp blade is only part of the equation for getting your plane to cut beautifully. The next step is setting the blade.

How do I set the blade to use the plane without the fence?

There are a couple of methods for setting the blade; try them both and see which works for you. Each begins with the cutting edge retracted just below the sole.

Method #1: Sight down the sole, either from the front or the rear. Slowly advance the blade until the cutting edge just begins to emerge. Ensure that it’s parallel to the sole by pivoting the blade adjuster. Take a test cut and assess the results. Advance or retract the blade and make lateral adjustments as needed. Continue the process until you achieve an even shaving of the desired thickness.

Method #2: Instead of sighting the blade, this approach uses a small scrap of wood (approximately 1/8" × 1" × 2" to 3") to test the cutting edge as it emerges. Run the scrap wood past the cutting edge at both corners of the blade. If the blade doesn’t take a shaving, advance it slightly and try again. The initial goal is to ensure the cutting edge is parallel to the sole; make lateral adjustments until both shavings are the same thickness. You can then focus on setting the blade projection for the desired depth of cut.

Regardless of which method you prefer, when you’re happy with the result, advance the three set screws on either side of the body until they just touch the blade. This creates a guide for the blade to prevent lateral shifting.

How do I set the blade to use the plane with the fence?

When rabbeting, the position of the blade relative to the body is key to optimal results. The blade projection needs to be set for the desired cut, but additionally, the leading corner of the blade projects slightly. You can use the set screws in the body to fine-tune the ideal amount; simply back off the screw on the open side of the body, and adjust the two screws on the opposite side to shift the blade into position.

How do I set the fence?

You can use a ruler, but it’s much easier to use something with a registration surface, such as a rule equipped with a stop or a combination square.

How do I use the nicker for cross-grain cuts?

The nicker needs to be aligned with the projecting corner of the blade. Remove the fence rod and loosen the locking screw in the toe of the plane. Insert a small slot screwdriver in the fence rod hole to engage the adjustment screw for the nicker. When you’re happy with the nicker’s position, reverse the process. This can be a tricky set-up and may require some trial and error.

With the blade sharpened and the plane properly adjusted, it’s time to make shavings. In the next section, we’ll show you how to overcome the most common issues when using this plane, and gives some tips on how to look after it so it performs well for years to come.