charlie b wrote:

Chuck:

Thanks for the review. Like their earlier, smaller, shoulder
plane, the new one appears to reflect LV's innovative approach
to things. They don't add Froo-Froo type whistles and bells
but rather little things that make a tool work better, make
it easier to set up and to use. The fingerhole is an example
of one of their "Of course! Why didn't someone do this before!"
innovations as is adjustable angles for knobs.

Yeah, the improvements they make to existing plane models would seem
to be the result of having actual tool-users design the planes, rather
than just some engineer/marketing guy. (E.g., Bridge City.)

They also actively solicit input from the tool-using public while
their products are in the pre-production stage. (And they take into
account the suggestions given.)

Good gripping positions seem to be the shortcoming of the
Stanley, Clifton and LN shoulder planes. I understand the
constraints of the tool needing to be use on both sides
and the bottom. but the LV "small" shoulder plane got
around that one with the swivel knob and an O-ring to
act as a friction device to hold it in position while you
lock it down there.

With the refinements, improvements - it's surprising
to see that the $170US price tag is over $50 less than
the LN version. More for less - what a concept!

Frankly, I don't know how they do it. I'm just glad that they've
chosen to aggressively pursue that intermediate market niche for
handtools.

Some questions

How wide is the iron?

1-1/4"

Where the sides to bottom really really square?

Yep.

Was the bottom really, really flat?

Yep again.

What's it weigh - give or take an ounce

I think it weighs in at 3.75 lbs.

thanks again

charlie b

My pleasure, charlie. I'm glad it was of some use to you.

Just to emphasize once again: I have no stake in Lee Valley/Veritas
other than the fact that I hope they keep making innovative tools that
are reasonably-priced.


Chuck Vance