'Afternoon, guys! I've been slowly trying to get myself motivated to buy my first hand plane. I am reading a lot on the topic, and think I'm gaining at least a "book" knowledge of the many, many different planes out there. But, ya ain't got nuthin if ya ain't got practical experience, so I ask you this...

For a guy just starting out in this area, can you recommend a style or type of plane as sort of a kick-start? Is there a method to the madness as far as the collection and use of these beautiful tooks, or is it just "buy it as you need it"? Thanks for any help you can give me.

Keith