March 4, 201214 yr I just bought a Stanley Bailey # 5, smooth sole, at a swap meet. A little surface rust and a broken tote. Clean break, easily repaired. Or, I could make a new onePaid $25. I really don't know much about values. How did I do?Gene'The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.' G. K. Chesterton
March 5, 201214 yr You did great. Especially if it is a pre WW2 model. The frogs on those planes have a lot of real estate and that helps reduce chatter. Awesome find and worth restoring. I keep one set up like a scrub plane and use it everyday.Adam WelkerRed Car Construction and Fine Woodworking
March 5, 201214 yr Author Thanks, Adam.How can I tell how old it is? Gene'The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.' G. K. Chesterton
March 5, 201214 yr Great find Gene. Congratulations! John MoodySite AdministratorJohn Moody Woodworkshttp://www.johnmoodywoodworks.com
March 5, 201214 yr The type of frog is the easiest way to tell. Before WW2 the frogs had a very large flat over its face. The easiest way would be if you could post a pic of the frog. If it is post WW2 that is not a deal breaker. Depending on what you want to use it for. My #5 is the first plane that touches rough sawn lumber. I use it like a scrub. This is a traditional approach. If you are able, post a pic of the frog. That is the part that the blade rests on. Otherwise, restore it. Adam WelkerRed Car Construction and Fine Woodworking
March 5, 201214 yr Author OK.Tomorrow I'll get som pix.Thanks again!Gene'The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.' G. K. Chesterton
March 5, 201214 yr Try Rexmill.com. he has a plane type study link and lots of info about planes. I think you did well on the purchase. I really like mine. This weekend I saw 45 & 60 dollar on some 5&6s at a flea market so 25 is good. MarkGood, Better, Best never let it restTill your Good is Better and your Better is Best.
March 5, 201214 yr  Best watch out, "Rust Hunting" can be addictive !!!!    You might want to check out Patrick Leach's "Blood & Gore" as well.  There is also the "Hyperkittien" site.    It mainly helps helps date each plane.    That is where i found out that My Bailey #8c was from 1902-1907 era.  'and may the road raise up to meet ye'
March 5, 201214 yr it's a Slippery Slope isn't it Steve. Good, Better, Best never let it restTill your Good is Better and your Better is Best.
March 5, 201214 yr  Now, whatever gave you THAT idea?Handsaws, maybe? or a BIG handplane?Medium onesLittle ones? or even just rehandled screwdrivers?nah, ain't slippery, at all........ 'and may the road raise up to meet ye'
March 5, 201214 yr Everyone, Wait till you start with Old Woodworking Machines! The slope gets even steeper! You'll think you're free falling!  Larry OWWM Forum Host
March 5, 201214 yr Author Here are some pix of my old plane stable. The #5 that I bought for $25 is the closest one in the picture. Here are pictures of the #4, the #5s, a #5 1/2 and a #6. The #6 is the only grooved sole. The 4 and 6 have patent dates of "March 05 02", "August 19 02" and "April 19 02" Couldn't find any dates on the others. All but the one #5 were given to me. Not pictured is a #71 in the box. Also a gift. One of these days, I'll get around to restoring them, if they are worth it. Gene'The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.' G. K. Chesterton
Archived
This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.