I have a hard to categorise plane in my collection. Is it a low angle block plane? Should I refer to it as an Infill Plane? Is it a small Miter Plane? Or is it a larger size chariot plane? Not knowing the maker increases the difficulty.
About the Plane
The sole is 7 in. by 1 15/16 in.
The blade is 1 5/8 in. wide.
The body is a single piece of cast iron.
The low sitting front knob and wedge are walnut.
It is interesting that the wedge has a step in it. This was possibly to give a bit more volume at the top end where the users hand would be when working with the plane.
The blade is at an angle of 15 degrees with it’s bevel up. Giving a cutting angle of around 45 degrees.
This is a very well made plane, so it is a surprise to not have any maker identification on it. The casting is quite heavy which helps give the plane a good feel when being used.
This one is an Irish Pattern chariot plane. Essentially what we call a block plane today though – at the time – was closer to a thumb plane. Thumb planes were made by Spiers, Mathieson and then Norris, along with other smaller makers.
The infill on this one looks like mahogany. Again hard to tell as the pictures are not that large. Date-wise I would say 1880’s to just after 1900 or so.
Cameron.
Thanks again for your information Cameron – I’m always happy to add to my knowledge of the planes I have.
regards
Geoff