The British company Record produced its compact No. 043 plough plane from 1934 to 1978. This handy little plane — designed for cutting grooves for drawer bottoms, box backs, and plywood panels — never had a direct Stanley equivalent. However, it did inspire a very close copy from the Soviet Union.
My own Soviet-made example even came with an instruction leaflet (entirely in Russian) dated 1988, proving that these planes were still being manufactured well after Record ceased production. That alone makes for an interesting comparison.
Similarities
At first glance — and even in use — the Soviet version is remarkably faithful to the original Record 043:
- Appearance: Nearly identical in shape and function, aside from branding.
- Purpose: Both are designed to cut neat grooves for drawer bottoms, backs, and panels.
- Fence: Each features a double-arm, bridged fence that can be positioned on either side of the plane, accommodating left- or right-handed users. The fence allows cuts up to about 4 inches from the edge.
- Depth Stop: Both have an adjustable depth stop to control the cut depth.
- Blade Adjustment: Blade height is fine-tuned with a knurled screw.
- Construction: Solidly built with a cast iron body and fence.
- Size: Around 5½ inches long.
Differences
While the Soviet plane is clearly modeled on the Record 043, a few small details reveal its independent manufacture:
- Finish: The Record 043 was originally nickel-plated (though mine has since been painted silver), whereas the Soviet version sports a uniform matte black finish.
- Body Shape: The Soviet plane has a thicker moulding behind the blade.
- Length: Slightly shorter — about 5⅜ inches versus the Record’s 5½.
- Lever Cap: The Soviet lever cap differs subtly in shape and sits lower, with the screw bearing against the body moulding. The Record version positions its screw slightly higher, and its lever cap is finished in a contrasting red.
- Adjusting Screws: The thread standards differ — metric M5 on the Soviet plane, imperial 10-24 on the Record.
- Skate: The Soviet skate has bevels front and back, while the Record’s leading edge is cut square.
Conclusion
The Soviet-era plough plane stands as a worthy successor to the discontinued Record 043. It captures nearly all the functionality and feel of the original, with only minor cosmetic and engineering differences. For tool collectors and users alike, it’s a fascinating piece of cross-cultural toolmaking history.