The Router Plane Guide
The router plane is used to refine cuts which are either made by chisels, saws or machines. In use, the blade cuts in a similar way to a chisel but the blade is fixed within a wooden or metal body and has an adjustment mechanism making this a true plane.
Uses
A router is used to accurately level out recesses, such as those made for housing hinges or joints. It can help to level surfaces and make them parallel to an adjacent surface. This means that a router can aid a great deal in making accurate joints. It is often used after chiseling and sawing as the router does not excel at removing a bulk of wood but rather bringing a surface that is close to level to a smooth and accurate final depth.
Paul Sellers sometimes uses a router plane as an improvised marking gauge. By using the same tool he is ensuring that the final depth of cut is exact, it removes the possibility of the marking gauge and router being set differently.
Terminology
- Cutting Iron – In a router this is a foot-shaped steel blade. They come in different shapes and sizes
- Fence – Connects to the underside, it can be double sided (square and rounded)
Types of Router Planes
- Wooden
- Metal Cast
Parts of a Router Plane
● Cutting Iron (Blade)
◎ Sole (Plane Body)
● Knob
● Handle Screws
● Height/ Depth Adjuster
● Square Pre-set Stop
● Set Screw for Square Pre-Set Stop
● Fence, Fence Set Screw, Washer
● Depth Locking Set Screw
Relevant Guides
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Sharpening a Router Plane
Setting Up Before you use your router plane, it is important to check that the leading edge of the cutting iron, the fore edge, is parallel with the actual sole of the plane as it may need to be corrected, flattened and polished before use (Paul sometimes refers to this process as initialising). This process…
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Using a Router Plane
When using a router plane and removing material to a specific depth, you can use a chisel to remove the bulk of the material then go over it with a router, or you can make incremental depth changes with the router until the final depth is established. Removing the bulk gallery: Though used to level…
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Buying a Router Plane
Paul would recommend that you make your own router plane. He says “it’s as easy to make as a dovetail box”. The videos and technical drawings are available on Woodworking Masterclasses The metal hardware is available from Rokesmith, our physical products selling platform for £35 (plus VAT and shipping.) We ship worldwide. If you don’t…
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The Router Plane Guide
The router plane is used to refine cuts which are either made by chisels, saws or machines. In use, the blade cuts in a similar way to a chisel but the blade is fixed within a wooden or metal body and has an adjustment mechanism making this a true plane. Uses A router is used…
Further Reading
To read more on this we recommend the following from Paul’s blog:
Buying Good Tools Cheap- Router Plane
Tool Review- Veritas Router Plane
Tightening Tool for a Veritas Router Plane
Hi Lizzy,
Does Paul recommend the LN router plane over the Veritas? I remember reading about some issues with the Veritas one. Personally I like the look of the LN but haven’t tried either.
Many Thanks,
Stephen
Hi Stephen,
Information on which router planes Paul recommends for beginners can be found in our buying guide.
Kind Regards,
Izzy