So, up till now, my plane collection has been whatever I find that I can use, and hasn't included any Stanley Bailey planes. Yesterday, my roommate and I went to the local dirt malls to get out of the house(it's cold in Kentucky this year), and I found a No. 5 almost immediately. Based on what I'd read prior to this, it's from between 1907 and 1910. There are only two patent dates, and the blade sports the Stanley Rule and Level marking. No marking on the cap. It's not in teribble shape(some surface rust, iron is good), but the japanning has seen better days. So, my question is this, and is directed at the purists out there: is it sacrelige to remove the rest of the beat japanning and replace with enamel? Should I just clean it up, tune it, sharpen it and go? It will be a user, but much like the machinery that I restore, I want it to look flawless. It's silly, I know, but it's a compulsion. Anyway, I really like the feel of this thing(tote and knob are in great shape), and I've got several bench and table projects going that are going to get very familiar with Mr. Stanley soon enough. Thanks everyone.
WCT
WCT