Veritas Block Planes - improved functionality?

[Jay Pique]

I see that LV has added a couple new block planes to their line. (Also discussed in Mr. Ferrarri - Meet Mr. Stanley, etc..) They are certainly different looking animals, no question. But looks aside, are these planes going to function better than the current blocks they make? My guess is that they've realized that there is a large market for collectable tools - helped by the success of their stainless edge trimming plane - and are going to be introducing more tools of this nature. I just hope that they continue to offer high quality working tools at a fair price.

That said, I see that they've introduced a western dovetail saw at $65, which seems eminently reasonable. Good on ya, Lee Valley.

JP

*********************** I fear change.

[charlieb]

Veritas is noted for paying attention to details - with emphasis on functionality and ease of use - set screws on the sides to make realigning the iron after sharpening. Note there is a pin added that keeps the Norris type iron adjuster that keeps it from coming out of the body of the plane. Note that the knurled nobs are slightly rounded so there's no hard edges. More about the thoughtful details here

[Chris Friesen]

There are some functional improvements:

1) rust-resistant body on the higher-end version 2) setscrew to keep from bashing the nose piece into the blade 3) retainer screw on the adjuster mechanism 4) enclosed nose (so you can't accidentally hit the nose and change your mouth adjustment) 5) possibly a better "fit" to the hand...I'd have to use one for a while to be sure

On the downside, there's less side registration if you want to shoot with it, and there's no O1 blade available.

They are (to both). There are four planes coming out for underl $100 in the next year, and there will also be additional premium planes as well as at least one more backsaw.

Rob Lee has said that a huge demand for the premium block plane would be a problem...their margins are too slim.

Chris

[Brian Takei]