February 13, 2025
Instructions - how to use our Tools
User manual for the small Veritas block plane
The small block plane from Veritas is indispensable for all tasks that require precise surfaces of uniform depth, such as recesses for hinges and strike plates, or relief carving. The body of the small block plane has been designed to be not only very ergonomic but also to maintain maximum contact with the workpiece at all times. The flared foot on the sides and the bridge ensure that the plane always has the greatest possible contact with the workpiece, even when you start at the side or reach the end of the workpiece. The spring pressure of the clamping screw ensures that the blade is held in place during adjustment and does not slip on its own. The placement of the clamping screw behind the blade ensures that shavings can exit unhindered while also ensuring that visibility of the cutting edge is not obstructed.
Image below, parts of the plane:
Blade = Blade
Body = Plane body
Blade Clamp = Blade holder
Blade Locking Knob = Clamping screw
Image below, parts of the plane:
Blade = Blade
Body = Plane body
Blade Clamp = Blade holder
Blade Locking Knob = Clamping screw
Setting of the blade (Attention: The blade is sharp!)
Detail: Close-up of the blade in the inner position (the blade is completely surrounded by the sole)
Iron alignment
To mount the blade, loosen the clamping screw and slide the blade from the bottom of the plane through the clamping mechanism. The spring tension ensures that the blade does not move on its own while you adjust the depth to a specific measurement or stepwise when creating a groove. Tighten the clamping screw to secure the blade. The blade can be adjusted to a depth of up to 27 mm (1 inch).
Sharpening the iron
The iron can be mounted both inside the sole for standard applications (Figure 2) and outside the sole – with the blade extending beyond the plane body – (Figure 3) for work into corners. To switch from one orientation to the other, loosen the clamping screw and pull out the iron and the clamping mechanism. Install the clamping mechanism in the desired direction, reinsert the iron, and tighten the clamping screw.
Figure left: Iron inside the plane sole.
Figure right: Iron outside the plane sole.
Figure left: Iron inside the plane sole.
Figure right: Iron outside the plane sole.
Care and Maintenance
The 6.35 mm (1/4 inch) wide iron made of carbon steel has a bevel angle of 25° and is best sharpened with a water stone. Proceed to grind and hone the back and the bevel on a stone as shown in figures 4 and 5.
Figure left: Grinding the iron.
Figure right: Honing the iron.
Figure left: Grinding the iron.
Figure right: Honing the iron.