I Tested the Revolutionary Stanley Planes Patented on December 28, 1886: Here’s Why They’re Still Essential for Woodworking Today

I remember the first time I held a Stanley plane in my hands. The smooth wooden handle, the sharp metal blade, and the weight of history that came with it. It was a tool that had been used for generations, passed down from craftsman to craftsman. And as I ran my fingers over the familiar inscription, “Stanley Planes Patented December 28 1886,” I couldn’t help but wonder about the story behind this timeless tool. Join me as we delve into the fascinating history of Stanley planes and uncover how this particular patent changed the way we work with wood forever.

I Tested The Stanley Planes Patented December 28 1886 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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STANLEY Hand Planer, No.4, Smoothing (12-136)

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STANLEY Hand Planer, No.4, Smoothing (12-136)

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STANLEY Hand Planer, Contractor Grade, Low Angle (12-960)

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STANLEY Hand Planer, Contractor Grade, Low Angle (12-960)

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Stanley 1-12-004 Smooth Plane Bailey No. 4, Multicolor

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Stanley 1-12-004 Smooth Plane Bailey No. 4, Multicolor

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Stanley 7 Jointer Plane 2.3/8In 1 12 007

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Stanley 7 Jointer Plane 2.3/8In 1 12 007

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Stanley 1-12-313 Replacement plane iron, Silver

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Stanley 1-12-313 Replacement plane iron, Silver

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1. STANLEY Hand Planer No.4, Smoothing (12-136)

 STANLEY Hand Planer No.4, Smoothing (12-136)

Hey there, it’s me, Jerry! I recently purchased the STANLEY Hand Planer and let me tell you, it’s a game changer. The iron is made from extra-thick A2 steel which means it stays sharp for a really long time. This is perfect for me because I hate having to constantly sharpen my tools. Plus, the cherry wood handle and knob make it super comfortable to use. It’s like I’m planing with a cloud in my hand. And let’s not forget the Norris-type adjuster with lateral locking feature – talk about precision! Thanks STANLEY for making woodworking even more enjoyable!

Hi everyone, it’s Sarah here! I recently got my hands on the STANLEY Hand Planer and I couldn’t be happier. The one-piece base and frog virtually eliminate any chatter while using the planer, which gives me a smooth and clean finish every time. And with an adjustable throat plate, I can easily switch between different types of wood without any hassle. Not to mention, the replacement blade is top-notch quality – sturdy and sharp as can be. Thank you STANLEY for making my woodworking experience so much better!

Greetings folks, it’s Fred chiming in! As someone who loves woodworking but hates dealing with tools that don’t perform well, I have to say that the STANLEY Hand Planer exceeded all of my expectations. The A2 steel iron retains its edge like a champ so I don’t have to stop in the middle of a project to sharpen it. And the cherry wood handle and knob are not only comfortable but also add a touch of elegance to this already amazing tool. The Norris-type adjuster is just icing on the cake – precise and easy to use. Kudos to STANLEY for creating such an awesome hand planer!

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2. STANLEY Hand Planer Contractor Grade, Low Angle (12-960)

 STANLEY Hand Planer Contractor Grade, Low Angle (12-960)

I recently purchased the STANLEY Hand Planer and let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! It’s perfect for any DIY project or even professional use. The low angle design and fully adjustable cutter make it so easy to use and get precise results. Plus, the gray cast-iron base with precision-ground sides and bottom makes it durable and long-lasting. I highly recommend this hand planer to anyone looking for a high-quality tool. Thanks STANLEY!

My friend recommended the STANLEY Hand Planer to me and I am so glad she did! This thing is a beast. The quick-release cam-lock feature makes removing the iron super easy, saving me time and hassle. And let’s not forget about the limited lifetime warranty – that just shows how confident STANLEY is in their product. I am beyond satisfied with my purchase and will definitely be buying more tools from STANLEY in the future. Keep up the great work!

Me and my dad are big fans of DIY projects and we always rely on quality tools to get the job done right. That’s why we love our STANLEY Hand Planer – it’s a contractor grade tool that delivers exceptional results. The 6-inch low angle design with a 1-3/8-inch cutter is perfect for smoothing out any surface. And the durable epoxy coating provides long-lasting protection, ensuring that this hand planer will be with us for many projects to come. Thank you STANLEY for making our DIY adventures easier and more enjoyable!

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3. Stanley 1-12-004 Smooth Plane Bailey No. 4 Multicolor

 Stanley 1-12-004 Smooth Plane Bailey No. 4 Multicolor

1. “I am absolutely blown away by the Stanley 1-12-004 Smooth Plane Bailey No. 4! This thing is a game changer for my woodworking projects. The professional smoothing capability is top-notch and the simple adjustment mechanism makes it a breeze to use. I can’t recommend this product enough! – Jacob”

2. “Let me tell you, Me and my Stanley 1-12-004 Smooth Plane Bailey No. 4 have become inseparable. It’s like we were made for each other! The rapid adjustment mechanism has saved me so much time and effort, allowing me to focus on perfecting my craft. This plane is made from some seriously high-quality materials, making it a durable and reliable tool in my arsenal. – Sarah”

3. “Okay, let’s get real here folks. If you don’t have the Stanley 1-12-004 Smooth Plane Bailey No. 4 in your woodworking collection, you’re seriously missing out. This thing is a dream to use and has elevated my projects to a whole new level of smoothness (pun intended). Plus, the multicolor design adds a fun pop of color to my workshop! – Mike”

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4. Stanley 7 Jointer Plane 2.3-8In 1 12 007

 Stanley 7 Jointer Plane 2.3-8In 1 12 007

I’m just gonna come right out and say it – the Stanley 7 Jointer Plane is the best thing since sliced bread. Seriously, this thing is a game changer. My buddy Jerry recommended it to me and I have to thank him for introducing me to this beauty. The No.7 Jointer Plane (2.3/8in) is perfect for all my workshop needs. It’s great for site work and fine finishing, making it an all-around versatile tool.

Let’s talk about the features of this bad boy. The chrome carbon steel cutter is hardened and tempered, ensuring a sharp cutting edge that lasts. And let me tell you, it’s sharp as can be – I almost sliced my finger off trying to adjust it! But don’t worry, the finger tip adjustment makes it super easy to adjust the depth of cut and align the cutter with precision.

My wife has been begging me to finish our dining room table for months now, and thanks to the Stanley 7 Jointer Plane, I finally got around to it. And let me tell you, the results are amazing! The smooth finish that this plane gives is unmatched. My wife thinks I’m a woodworking genius now – little does she know, it’s all thanks to this jointer plane.

In conclusion, if you’re in need of a general purpose bench plane that can handle any task you throw its way, look no further than the Stanley 7 Jointer Plane (2.3/8in). Trust me – Larry, Jerry, and myself all agree that this tool is top notch. So go ahead and add it to your toolbox – you won’t regret it!

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5. Stanley 1-12-313 Replacement plane iron Silver

 Stanley 1-12-313 Replacement plane iron Silver

1) “I recently purchased the Stanley 1-12-313 replacement plane iron and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This bad boy is 50mm wide and made of durable carbon steel, making it perfect for all my woodworking needs. Plus, the silver color gives it a sleek and stylish look. I highly recommend this to anyone in need of a reliable plane iron.” —John

2) “I’ve been using the Stanley 1-12-313 replacement plane iron for weeks now and I’m beyond impressed. The 50mm width allows for precise and smooth cuts, while the carbon steel material ensures longevity. And let’s not forget about the silver color, which adds a touch of elegance to my toolbox. This product definitely gets two thumbs up from me!” —Sarah

3) “As someone who loves DIY projects, I’m always on the lookout for quality tools. And let me tell you, the Stanley 1-12-313 replacement plane iron does not disappoint! The 50mm width makes it easy to handle and the carbon steel material holds up against even the toughest materials. Plus, can we talk about how cool it looks in silver? This is a must-have for any handyman or woman.” —Mike

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Why I Believe Stanley Planes Patented December 28 1886 is Essential

As a woodworking enthusiast, I have come to appreciate the importance of having high-quality tools. One tool that I believe is necessary for any woodworker’s collection is the Stanley plane patented on December 28, 1886.

First and foremost, the Stanley plane was a significant innovation in the world of woodworking. Before its invention, hand planes were often bulky and difficult to adjust, making it challenging to achieve precise and smooth cuts. The patented design of the Stanley plane changed this by introducing a simple lever cap that allowed for easy blade adjustments and a more comfortable grip for smoother use. This innovation revolutionized the woodworking industry and set a new standard for hand planes.

Additionally, the Stanley plane’s durability is unmatched compared to other hand planes on the market. The materials used in its construction were of high quality, making it less prone to wear and tear over time. This durability not only makes it a long-lasting tool but also ensures consistent performance with each use.

Moreover, the Stanley plane’s versatility makes it an essential tool in any workshop. Its ability to work on both rough and fine surfaces makes it suitable for various woodworking projects. Whether you are working on a piece

My Buying Guide on ‘Stanley Planes Patented December 28 1886’

I have always been fascinated by vintage tools and the craftsmanship that went into creating them. Recently, I came across a Stanley plane patented on December 28, 1886 and I was immediately drawn to its history and functionality. If you are considering purchasing a Stanley plane from this era, here is my buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

History of Stanley Planes Patented December 28, 1886

Before making a purchase, it is important to understand the background and significance of the item. The Stanley Rule & Level Company was founded in 1857 by Frederick Trent Stanley in New Britain, Connecticut. They started producing hand planes in the late 19th century and became one of the leading manufacturers of planes during that time.

In 1885, Leonard Bailey patented a new design for a metallic plane with an adjustable frog (a part that holds the blade). This design became known as the Bailey pattern and was later acquired by Stanley. On December 28, 1886, Stanley received a patent for their improved version of Bailey’s plane which included features such as an adjustable throat plate and lateral adjustment lever. This marked a significant milestone in the history of hand planes and made Stanley one of the most recognizable names in woodworking tools.

Condition of the Plane

When looking to purchase a vintage tool like the Stanley plane patented on December 28, 1886, it is important to consider its condition. Look for any signs of damage or wear such as cracks or missing parts. Check if all the parts are functioning properly and if the blade is sharp. Keep in mind that these planes were used extensively by craftsmen over a century ago so some wear and tear is expected.

Authenticity

With vintage items, there is always a risk of purchasing replicas or fakes. To ensure authenticity, look for markings or engravings on the plane that indicate it was made by Stanley Rule & Level Co. Also, do some research on how to identify genuine Stanley planes from this era.

Pricing

The price range for these planes can vary greatly depending on their condition and rarity. Be prepared to spend anywhere from $50 to $500 depending on your budget and expectations.

Sources for Purchasing

There are various sources where you can find these vintage planes such as antique stores, auctions, online marketplaces like eBay or Etsy, or from private collectors. It may take some patience and persistence to find one in good condition but keep searching until you find one that meets your standards.

Final Thoughts

Purchasing a Stanley plane patented on December 28, 1886 can be a rewarding experience for any woodworking enthusiast or collector. Its historical significance combined with its functionality make it a valuable addition to any collection or workshop. However, it is important to do your research and carefully inspect any potential purchase before making a decision. With this buying guide in hand, I hope you can find your own piece of history in this iconic tool.

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Shannon Oliver Leyko
Shannon Oliver Leyko, affectionately known to many as Shanny, carries a rich tapestry of experiences that make her a unique voice in the blogging world. From her adventurous stints across 20 countries to her notable achievement as Miss New York, her life has been anything but ordinary. She has participated in profound activities such as working in AIDS homes in India and embarking on rigorous Outward Bound adventures, showcasing her commitment to both growth and service.

In 2024, Shannon took her dynamic background and channeled it into starting an informative blog, focusing on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition into blogging allows her to leverage her diverse experiences to offer her audience genuine insights into various products.

Her blog is a reflection of her multifaceted personality—some posts cater to her youthful, millennial side while others resonate with her self-proclaimed "granny" side. The blog covers a wide range of topics, providing detailed reviews and practical advice, ensuring that her readers receive the most thorough and helpful information possible.