Is this plane any good? - Woodworking Talk

sikrap · 03-14-2009, 12:05 AM

Hi, just picked up a used plane from a guy. Its an L. Bailey #5 jack plane (I think its a jack plane). Its definitely used and I didn't pay a lot of money for it, but I don't want to waste a lot of time trying to restore it if it isn't worth bothering with. If it wil help, I can post a couple of pics. Thanks!!

**Daren** · 03-14-2009, 12:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sikrap

. If it wil help, I can post a couple of pics.

Most likely.

sikrap · 03-14-2009, 12:43 AM

[IMG]file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/All%20Users/Documents/My%20Pictures/Kodak%20Pictures/tools/100_1473.jpg[/IMG]Sorry, here are 2. It doesn't show in the picture, but the "blade" says "L. Baily Patent Dec. 24, 1867"

firehawkmph · 03-14-2009, 01:51 AM

Sikrap,
It looks salvageable. Start by giving it a good cleaning. I have seen replacement handles for sale in one of the catalogs. Sharpen it up and see how ol' bessy works.
Mike Hawkins

Julian the woodnut · 03-14-2009, 11:16 AM

It's definately worth using. Just get some 220/400/800 grit wet dry sandpaper and put it on a piece of glass, then run the plane across it to flatten the bottom.I also suggest getting a replacement blade from lee nielson. They are almost double the thickness of the original. If you're not a stickler for "original", then you could make a new tote and knob to dress it up.

Here's a #7 stanley I refinished, and made new handles for.

sikrap · 03-14-2009, 06:07 PM

Julian, that is absolutely beautiful. I will never be good enough to make those replacement handles. I'm thinking of using a bicycle grip in the back and an old "suicide" steering wheel knob on the front.