Bob wrote:Hello:

I have struggled to a point way beyond frustration to get a surface-
any surface dead-on flat. I have used the marking the high points
method and used every plane scrub, jack, jointer, smooth, scraper,
etc., No matter what I do I can't get it 100% flat. When I shine a
light behind my Starrett, it is always off by a few thou. Is there a
way to get a surface truly flat using hand planes and a scraper? It
almost seems impossible. What am I doing wrong?

Thanks!

Bob


It could very well be impossible. Something I'm guilty of quite a lot, is
worrying too much. What are you creating that you need so flat? Wood moves, and
a "few thou" seems pretty darn good to me, especially with "cordless" tools.
Tom
Work at your leisure!