Jack Planes

About Jack Planes

Jack planes represent the versatile workhorse of the bench plane family, typically measuring 350-380mm in length and ideally suited for both rough dimensioning and fine surface preparation. At MyToolShed.co.uk, our jack plane collection features trusted brands including Stanley, Record, and Faithfull, offering everything from traditional Bailey-pattern designs to modern low-angle variants. The classic No. 5 designation remains the most popular configuration, providing the perfect balance between manoeuvrability and effective cutting performance for both professional joiners and dedicated DIY woodworkers.

Whether you're working with softwoods or hardwoods, a quality jack plane bridges the gap between initial stock removal and final smoothing work. Their medium length allows them to flatten uneven timber surfaces effectively whilst remaining manageable for extended use. From cast iron bodies with adjustable frogs to specialist low-angle models for difficult grain, MyToolShed stocks jack planes suitable for every application and skill level.

Applications

Jack planes are essential tools across numerous trades and woodworking disciplines:

• Joiners and Carpenters: Door fitting, timber preparation, and site work where power tools aren't practical
• Cabinetmakers: Dimensioning hardwoods, surface preparation, and fine furniture construction
• Shopfitters: On-site adjustments and precision fitting work
• Restoration Specialists: Heritage projects requiring traditional methods and authentic finishes
• Boat Builders: Shaping spars, planking, and working marine timbers
• DIY Enthusiasts: Furniture projects, timber framing, and general workshop tasks
• Luthiers: Preparing tonewoods and dimensioning instrument components

Choosing The Right Jack Planes

Blade Quality: Look for high-carbon steel or laminated blades approximately 50mm wide that hold an edge well. Premium models offer thicker irons requiring less frequent sharpening.

Body Construction: Cast iron bodies provide excellent weight and momentum. Ensure the sole is machined flat—any twist compromises performance. Stanley, Record, and Faithfull offer reliable construction built to last decades.

Adjustment Mechanisms: Quality jack planes feature smooth lateral adjustment levers and depth adjustment wheels for precise control without excessive play.

Standard vs Low-Angle: Traditional 45-degree bed angles suit general purpose work, whilst low-angle jack planes excel on end grain and difficult timbers with interlocked grain patterns.

Budget Considerations: Entry-level planes perform well with proper setup for occasional users, whilst professional tradespeople benefit from premium ranges like Stanley Sweetheart for consistent, reliable performance.

Safety Information

Always retract the blade fully when adjusting or storing your jack plane, and never leave tools with exposed blades on the workbench. Ensure timber is properly secured in a vice or with clamps before planing to prevent workpieces moving unexpectedly. Maintain a stable stance with the planing stroke moving away from your body, and keep your workshop well-lit with shavings cleared regularly to prevent slipping hazards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a jack plane and a smoothing plane?
A jack plane (typically No. 5, around 355mm) is longer than a smoothing plane, making it better for flattening larger surfaces and bridging hollows in timber. Jack planes are more versatile and often recommended as a first bench plane purchase, whilst smoothing planes are designed for final surface finishing on already-flat boards.

How should I set up a jack plane for different tasks?
For heavy stock removal, set a deeper cut with a slightly cambered blade edge and open the mouth wider. For finer work, reduce the cut depth, close the mouth, and position the chipbreaker closer to the cutting edge (around 0.5mm) to prevent tear-out on difficult grain.

Why does my jack plane tear the grain?
Tear-out typically indicates a blunt blade, incorrect chipbreaker position, or planing against the grain. Ensure your blade is properly sharpened, position the chipbreaker 0.5-1mm from the cutting edge, and try planing from the opposite direction with lighter cuts and a tighter mouth setting.