For my previous drawer I used a vintage Stanley #45 back from end of 1800's. Since then I got a Record #50 that came from England and was brought to me by my father but did not try it yet... well until today!
I am lucky enough that the plane is complete, all and every pieces are there. Even the user manual is there.
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| Record #50 Manual |
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| Looks like this one was sold by M Howard Kirby. |
This is the original manual showing plane usage and parts.
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| How to use that combination plane. |
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| Cutters and parts description. |
This plane comes with a set of 15 cutters.
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| The Record #50 set of cutters. |
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| Cam and narrow cutters set. |
That plane is in very good condition. It was full of wood dust so I guess it was really used, but the cutters are sharp and do not show much wear.
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| Dusty plane body. |
I took it apart and cleaned it. I used my weapon of choice to clean it, an high tech brush that benefited years of improvement.
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| A highly evolved brush. The red handle could be unbreakable tenite but is just... plain ordinary plastic |
After brushing it to remove dust I oiled and waxed all parts and put it back to work.
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| All pieces back together ready for some shaving. |
After a short honing session I tried it with s 1/4" cutter, the one I need for my drawer.
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| The Record #50 in action. |
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| Some more shaving porn. |
I really like the handle on that plane, it fits my hand perfectly. Also it has a more compact form factor than my Stanley #45.
Some says that the metal handle is uncomfortable during cold months in winter. Well I must say that up here if you don't heat your shop in winter you will certainly find everything uncomfortable!
I think the Record planes are more than equal to the Stanley versions. My very first bench planes were a record #4 and a #6 with the low and standard angle block planes.
ReplyDeleteI currently have the Record 405 (Stanley 45) which I don't use and the 043 which I do use.
I agree, I have few Record planes (rabbet plane, shoulder plane etc) and really like them.
DeleteSo great that it came with all those cutters. Interesting that the blue label stays on the cutter when installed in the plane. Is that painted on or is it a glued-on label?
ReplyDeleteLabels are thin paper sticker glued on the upper side of the blade. I have seen blades where it is worn out but I guess not from the blade use as where it is it does not touch anything. The set of cutter is similar to the one found on Stanley #45 but smaller in length.
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