Originally Posted by
Adam Cruea
I've grabbed almost every plane between a #2 and a #8.
As Mr. Weaver has stated, it's all personal preference. I'm sure what I use my #8's for, some people would have a heart attack about. I'm sure what I use my #2 for, some people would tell me is a completely stupid use.
My LN #4 1/2 is my final go-to smoothing plane because it's at 50* pitch, heavy, and wide. I appreciate it's heft and the thinner-than-paper shavings it takes and the tear-out it eliminates. However, my 604, 603 and #2 are all used for only spot smoothing; I take a straight-edge, pull it along a board, and look for high spots. Depending on size of high spot, I pick the size of smoother that best handles it.
Tonight I used all 3 - my #3 took the first shot at smoothing, my #2 worked out a low spot that the #3 couldnt and I finished with my #4. I dont know if thats normal or sensible, but it works for my current skill level -I take a slightly thicker cut with the #3 and reserve the #4 for that very fine (0.002) final smoothing. I tried a 4 1/2 recently and found it too heavy for my taste. (I really wanted to like that tool - Ive heard so many good things about 'em.) But I use the #3 and #4 a lot.
"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing."
“If you want to know what a man's like, take a good look at how he treats his inferiors, not his equals.”