New hand plane...need some advice

[Gene Howe]

My son sent me a nice little Japanese wooden bodied plane from Okinawa.
I suppose the adjustment of this is very similar to other wooden planes, but I have no clue as to how to adjust it. I think it requires some taps to the body to loosen it but, other than that, I'm in the dark. Can anyone point me in the right direction for some information?
Thanks,

[David Gendron]

I think Pam would be the right one to chime in about japanese plane. I also think that japanese plane sole need some work, tunning befor it can be use properly.
Lets Pam tell you!

[Pam Niedermayer]

I can try, David. First, Gene, please assess the condition your plane is in now. Is it useable as is (the iron can descend to a good cutting position and hold)? Is the entire sole flat with before and after the blade parts coplanar? Is the iron sharp? Does it have a subblade? Please be sure and include a photo.

Pam

[Sam Takeuchi]

For pretty good how-to of readying Japanese plane for use, this link (http://www.japanwoodworker.com/page.asp?content_id=2659) provides a good basic setup and instruction.

[Gene Howe]

Thanks Pam and Sam.
I see I have some work to do.
He sent me a Dozuki, a Ryoba and a Kataba, also. These are sweet. I think I can adjust these with no problems.:D

[Pam Niedermayer]

For pretty good how-to of readying Japanese plane for use, this link (http://www.japanwoodworker.com/page.asp?content_id=2659) provides a good basic setup and instruction.

In scanning this article, I found at least two places where it is just plain wrong, not inadvisable, not an option, simply wrong. Use at your own risk. I may go back and read it carefully and comment it, but not this week.

Pam