Maintenance

Here are some answers to the most common questions, as well as suggestions for looking after your plane properly so it performs well for years to come.

How do I resharpen profiled blades?

Unless there is damage to the cutting edge, the easiest way to restore its keenness is to polish the back of the blade on your finest stone.

I’m working a hard wood, and the tips of the scoring spurs aren’t holding up. How to I fix this?

The solution is to give the points a gently rounded shape. Work the cutter on a medium stone, rounding the apex where the two cutting bevels meet. Lap the back of the spur. Repeat on your finest stone to polish these surfaces.

What ongoing maintenance should I perform?

Apart from blade maintenance, rust prevention is the biggest issue. After a working session, take out the blade and use a soft brush to remove lingering shavings and dust. Periodically apply a silicone-free wax to the guide rails, and to the body to seal out moisture. Boeshield T-9 and Veritas Tool Wax both work well. Every so often, strip the plane down completely to give it a thorough cleaning and lubricate the moving parts.

If there is a risk of the tool jostling about in a toolbox, wrapping it in an old towel provides some protection. Alternatively, you can store it in a dedicated wooden box. Blades are best stored in a roll or wooden box, either of which will keep them safe and organized.