Help me pick a new Lie Nielsen

[Dave Malen]

Hi,
I'm trying to decide between a 4 bronze with HAF and a 4 and a half with HAF as a finishing plane. I like to use figure woods especially curly maple. I've heard that bronze planes can leave oxidation marks on light woods - so this might be a concern. OTOH I'm concerned that the 4 and a half might be too heavy. (I'm far from Charles Atlas :) ) So what do you think?

Dave

[Roy Wall]

4.5 is my choice! I think the #4 is a little small as a smoother. You'll enjoy the little extra heft the 4.5 brings....IMHO.

[Jim Becker]

Whichever you choose, Dave...I look forward to drooling over...er...near it. :D

[Dave Malen]

You can come over and drool - I have plenty of napkins:)

Dave

[Tyler Howell]

One of each. Every self respecting Neander has both:rolleyes:
I really like the #4

[Dave Malen]

I was thinking the same thing. Darn Until loml saw your reply. :mad: Just kiddin. I already have a stanley bedrock 604 with 45 degree angle frog.

Like Jim - I'm drooling already.

Dave

[Larry Rose]

Dave, I have the 4 1/2 and love it. I've been considering getting a high angle frog for it. Since you have a 604 with one, do you think it's worth the effort and cost.

[Andrew Homan]

Hi,
I have had a #4 bronze and bronze block plane since the winter and have never had the oxidation mark issue -- I think that it's overstated. LN indicate this issue as an acknowledgement that it _can_ happen, but in my experience it has not been a problem.
-Andy

[Scott Coffelt]

FWIW, the guy at the woodworking shows primarily uses a 4 1/2 YP to do his smoothing work at the shows.

[Mark Singer]

I think the 4 1/2 is the best...the mass on a metal body smoother is a plus..it is a terrific plane and among the LN best!

[Dave Malen]

I really appreciate your responses. I went with the 4.5. Ordered it this afternoon. With a plane this good it will be smooth sailing - or shaving;)

Dave