If you polish up your plane's blade (iron, right?) at the correct angle, to 8,000 grit, why does an expensive plane garner such praise for it's cutting ability? Isn't how the plane cuts due to it's flatness, and other tuning parameters rather than whether or not it's made from an exotic wood or has brass inlay? WHAT is it about a better plane that makes it work better than a cheaper brand? Assuming that the user applies the same careful attention to tuning the cheaper plane.
I already know about the "pride of ownership", and all that jazz, but on a purely scientific basis, why do the pricier planes cut better? Please assume the SAME blade, honed to the nth degree when explaining the difference the plane itself makes. Any chance that the "break the bank" plane is perceived as better because it's owner lavishes extra attention to setting it up properly, whereas a cheap Stanley gets the once-over?
I'm not disputing any facts; just trying to understand what to look for when shopping for planes. Is the best bang for the buck below L-N, like Veritas?
Anyone tired of discussing this topic ( I know it's been dealt with before) please by adult enough to just ignore the thread. Thank you!
dave