Being as a #2 will be much more expensive, a #3 might be a better choice for wallet preservation.
The #2 and #3 are very different, more different than comparing a #3 and #4.
jim
Being as a #2 will be much more expensive, a #3 might be a better choice for wallet preservation.
The #2 and #3 are very different, more different than comparing a #3 and #4.
jim
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty."
- Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965)
I am thinking since I do not like the no. 4 the no.2 might be more useful for me than the no. 3. I am under the impression that a no. 3 is a mini no. 4, while a no. 2 is more of a whole different plane. Am I misguided? Price isn't really a consideration.
Is there a no. 2 to consider other than LN? I am not particularly inclined to hunt down rare Stanley collector ridiculousness. I have been wanting to try a plane other than LN, Veritas or old Stanley. Miller Falls?
Last edited by Zach England; 01-25-2010 at 12:00 PM.
#2 has its place if you work on small pieces, but for general smoothing, I think it's tad bit too small for large area smoothing. Spot smoothing, its small size works great.
As far as #2 goes, Veritas doesn't make a bench plane in that size, BUT if you get a low angle block plane with optional knob and handle, it's the same size as #2 in terms of sole size and blade width, plus wider cutting angle at your disposal. I don't think Clifton makes #2, so your option is LN, Veritas LA block plane w/ knob & handle or go for vintage Stanley. Out of all, I think LA block plane and knob/handle will come out the cheapest. If money isn't your concern, get a couple of spare blades (just get 25 degree blades and do the rest of cutting angle adjustment with micro bevel). All in all, that should do it.
For a small smoother, I use the LV standard angle block with added front knob. I tried the rear tote on the low angle and found it puts the balance a bit too high for me. The standard angle fits the cup of my hand just right and the front knob gives a bit more control.
Jim B
I have the Veritas Block and have considered the ball/tote kit just for fun. I usually leave a toothed blade in that block plane as I have 4-5 different block planes to use in different situations. I'll consider getting a few different blades for it.
Speaking of block planes, I just got a Veritas "apron plane" and I think it is my favorite block plane. It's only drawback is the lack of an adjusting mouth, which I guess is a necessary sacrifice trying to make it so small. It fits beautifully in the hand (and I usually hate small block planes) and is just effortless for quick trimming.