Best Entry
Stanley 1-12-004 Smooth Plane Bailey No. 4
Stanley
Pros Lowest price for a functional full-size No. What earns it a place here: lowest price for a functional full-size No. 4 plane from a recognized brand and standard Bailey pattern accepts widely available replacement blades for easy upgrade.
- Cast iron body
- High carbon steel blade
- Standard Bailey-pattern body
- Standard Stanley blade compatibility
Pros
- Lowest price for a functional full-size No. 4 plane from a recognized brand
- Standard Bailey pattern accepts widely available replacement blades for easy upgrade
- Simple, well-understood design with decades of aftermarket parts support
Cons
- Sole may need light lapping before producing consistent shavings
- Blade steel quality is basic -- dulls faster than O1 or A2 alternatives
- Adjustment mechanism has more play than premium planes
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