Some folks like Jim have made reference in other threads to "advanced techniques" that use more extension than that in very specific cases, but you don't want to learn the tool by starting out that way.
Even those "advanced techniques" mentioned in some of my other posts start with the blade making a light cut and is then slightly advanced on following passes.
Interesting how one unmentioned detail may have been behind so many responses.
The good of it is there are many tips and techniques mentioned by folks trying to troubleshoot the OP's difficulties.
The sad part of it is most searches for information on how to use a combination plane will not likely find this thread.
jtk
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty."
- Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965)