The best block plane is going to be compact and well balanced. You may prefer a standard version or a low-angle model. Whatever the case may be, you can’t go wrong with the razor-thin wood shavings that a block plane can provide when working to finish a project. It’s a tool that has been in use for over 2,000 years and isn’t going away any time soon, despite the addition of power planers and jointers to Woodwork Nation.
| Picture | Name | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Stanley 12-139 Bailey Low Angle Block Plane | 4.3 | $$$$$ |
 | Woodstock D3831 Adjustable Block Plane | 4.1 | $$$$$+ |
 | Senkichi 65mm Japanese Wood Block Plane | 4.8 | $$$$ |
 | Power Tools 3-Piece Micro-Brass Block Plane Set | 4.9 | $$ |
 | E.C. Emmerich 649P Adjustable Block Plane | 4.9 | $$$$$+ |
 | Stanley 12-220 Block Plane | 4.0 | $$ |
 | Sheffield 58452 3-Inch Block Plane | 4.5 | $ |
 | Kanna Japanese Wood Block Plane | 4.6 | $ |
 | Great Neck Saw C2 Block Plane | 4.5 | $ |
 | Stanley 12-136 No. 4 Smooth ing Plane | 4.4 | $$$$$+ |
| Picture | Name | Our Rating | Price |
Best Block Plane 2020 Reviews
1. Stanley
This block plane gets all of the basics right. It’s a low-angle block plane that has the frog and base cast as one unit, giving you better accuracy with each movement. The base has also been precision machined so that you have more accuracy as well. It’s a little heavy, but in a good way, because of the iron casting. Users also get to take advantage of the mouth adjustment feature so that different types of wood can be planed. If you want the best, then this is one of the tools you’ll want to give a closer look.
Click here to look at prices on Amazon and get a great deal.
2. Woodstock
This 6-inch block plane is fully adjustable so that you can take on virtually any project with success. It features low-angle blade so that you can take care of end grain or face grain with consistent results. Made from a combination of cast iron and bronze, the compact size of this block plane is nice because it allows you to keep your leverage consistent with every movement.
It’s 1 3/8 inches wide, so you’ll be able to finish your project in no time at all with this tool.
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3. Senkichi
This Japanese-style block plane is the carpenter’s tool you’ll want to have in your arsenal. It makes your finishing work become super simple. The sharpness is true and this plane holds its edge for quite some time. You do need to take some extra time to set this block plane up and that will take you most of an afternoon to do. There is a lot more control with the final product and the thin shavings this tool can produce make it the must-have tool for your woodworking needs this year.
Click here to look at prices on Amazon and get a great deal.
4. Power Tools
This 3-piece block plane set gives you the bullnose and scraper in addition to the primary tool we’re talking about here. The shavings are relatively consistent with this tool, but it isn’t going to outperform the more expensive models that are available in this category. The plane is a little smaller as well, which is nice for tighter spaces, but adds time to larger projects. We felt that the edge stayed sharp pretty well and the results were pretty consistent. Maybe not for a beginner, but if you’re a woodworker with experience, you can save some money with this set.
Click here to look at prices on Amazon and get a great deal.
5. E.C. Emmerich
This adjustable block plane gets all of the basics right. It creates a smooth final surface thanks to its precision controls, including a depth adjustment feature. The iron width is just 39 millimeters, so it’s smaller than some other block planes, but that also makes it easier to carry around as well. It’s also made from wood instead of cast iron or metal, so the feeling of the work is more natural with this tool. Make the investment, experience the Lignum Vitae sole, and it will become your favorite woodworking tool.
Click here to look at prices on Amazon and get a great deal.
The best block plane reviews can help you find the finishing tools you need for woodworking success. Grab yours today and take your projects to the next level.
Our Favorite Block Planes
A compact block plane should fit comfortably into the palm of your hand. It should feel natural to use it, have a rounded iron cap, and give you leverage when you press the sole of the plane into the wood. These are the top-rated options that meet all of these needs for a price that is surprisingly fair.
The Benefits of Using the Best Block Planes
A block plane gives you the ability to handle several different tasks that may come up during your woodworking project. Some of these tasks would even be difficult or dangerous to complete if you were to try using a power tool. Here is why a block plane is one of the best investments you can make into your woodworking today.
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It can erase mills marks
Machine-milling marks on your wood can ruin the aesthetics of your project. Using a block plane will remove those marks while maintaining a smooth working surface with just a few passes of the tool.
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It can help you to true small items
There are some pieces that are just too small to make true with a power tool. Having the best block plane at your work bench can help you square up wooden parts that may be so small that they are difficult to hold in your hands.
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It can help to bevel an edge
With a few passes, you can bevel an edge on narrow or short pieces with relative ease. Just angle the plane across the edge. Although power tools can also do this, you’ll have a quieter workshop by using the plane and it takes almost the same amount of time to do the work.
You can also use a block plane to fit doors or plane to a specific line. Instead of needing to rework an item from scratch, this tool allows you to shave off the small parts mismeasurements that may be interfering with your completed project.
And for extra fun, you could even try sharpening your pencils with it too.
It’s been a tough choice, but we think our recommendation for the best block plane should be the Woodstock model for its speed of use and low angled blade.
What will it cost me to buy the Best Block Planes?
Most block planes that have a good level of quality to them are priced around $20. You’ll need to periodically maintain these planes so that they stay sharp, which means you may need some additional items for your shop at an added cost. To get started, however, you can typically grab this tool for about the price of a dinner out somewhere.
