Sargent 57

[Keith Szczepanski]

Hi. This is my first post on this forum. I'm a beginning woodworker who's in no rush to build fine furniture. I just want to relax and create something.
I recently received my great grandfather's toolbox. He was a cabinetmaker.There were a number of spokeshaves, one wood and a Stanley 51 and small brass finish models; a double set of auger bits, all with good threads and spurs;a 6"brace; Jackson 13 ppi dovetail saw; a slicing marking gauge.
There was also a plane that I've never seen mention of. It's a Sargent #57. It has an iron marked 53.
I can't find any definitive information on the plane. It appears that it may be a finish and veneer plane. The examples I have been able to find do not clearly define a #53 vs. a #57.
Does anyone know about these planes?

[Bill McDermott]

Hey Keith. The only thing I can add is that the "VBM" stands for Very Best Made. I believe that was an indicator of a higher grade than the standard Sargent models.

[Stewie Simpson]

Its a Sargent #53 Scraper Plane, (1913-1943) https://www.sargent-planes.com/sargent-no-53-scraper-plane

https://www.sargent-planes.com/files/Sargent-Plane-Catalog-Illustrations/Sargent-Number-53-Scraper-Plane.jpg

This is a Sargent # 57 Scraper Plane. (1907-1918) https://www.sargent-planes.com/sargent-no-57-scraper-plane/

https://www.sargent-planes.com/files/Sargent-Plane-Catalog-Illustrations/Sargent-Number-57-Scraper-Plane.jpg

[Keith Szczepanski]

Thanks. As I've been wiping it off I DID find 53 on the baseplate. The 57 is on the back (or front) of the Iron clamp. I assume the front is the side with iron clamp knob. Would the bevel normally be set to the front or rear? I've never used a scraper.

[Stewie Simpson]

Keith; the bevel would face the back of the plane.

The front of the plane has the higher set knob that secures the blade.

You have the option of using the scraper plane with a bevel or a turned hook (burr).

You also need to fit a new wooden sole to the bottom of that scraper plane before you use it. # Note the screw holes to attach the wooden sole. (refer to illustration)
https://www.sargent-planes.com/files/Sargent-Plane-Catalog-Illustrations/Sargent-Number-53-Scraper-Plane.jpg

[Keith Szczepanski]

I have a piece to fit to the bottom tonight. I'll play around with some scrap and see what it'll do.
Thank you, Stewie.

[Stewie Simpson]

Keith; the following info should be of some assistance in preparing the cutting edge of your scraper plane. https://paulsellers.com/2017/10/filinghoning-guide-80-scraper/