Hand planes are timeless woodworking tools that let you smooth edges, flatten boards, fine‑tune joints, and take off thin shavings with remarkable control. Whether you’re a beginner building shelves or a seasoned woodworker crafting furniture, picking the right hand plane makes your work cleaner, quieter, and more precise.
Below are the **best hand planes you can buy online**, grouped by type and purpose, with Amazon links that use your affiliate tag (ff42‑20) so you can check current prices and reviews easily.
Best Bench Planes — Most Versatile Workhorses
Bench planes are general‑purpose planes used for smoothing, leveling, and flattening larger surfaces and edges. They come in numbered sizes, with the #4 and #5 being common favorites for all‑around use.
| Plane | Best For | Amazon Link |
|---|---|---|
| Stanley Bailey #4 Smoothing Plane | Everyday smoothing and light stock removal | View on Amazon |
| Stanley Bailey #5 Jack Plane | Versatile bench plane — rip or smooth | View on Amazon |
| Irwin Marples M5 Jack Plane | Durable general‑purpose plane | View on Amazon |
| WoodRiver #4 Smoothing Plane | Mid‑range smoothing plane with precision feel | View on Amazon |
Best Block Planes — Perfect for Angles & End Grain
Block planes are smaller, lighter planes designed for trimming end grain, chamfering edges, and getting into tight spots. They’re easy to use one‑handed and great for finish work.
| Plane | Best For | Amazon Link |
|---|---|---|
| Stanley Block Plane (Sweetheart Series) | Trusted entry‑level block plane | View on Amazon |
| Irwin Marples Block Plane | Good all‑purpose block plane | View on Amazon |
| WoodRiver Low‑Angle Block Plane | Optimal for end grain and fine work | View on Amazon |
Best Specialty Planes — Smoothers & Joinery
These planes serve specific purposes — from trimming tenons and rabbets to smoothing boards with great precision. Great additions to a shop when you want finer control on certain tasks.
| Plane | Best For | Amazon Link |
|---|---|---|
| WoodRiver #60½ Rebate Plane | Cutting precise rebates and shoulders | View on Amazon |
| Lie‑Nielsen #62 Jointing Plane | Flattening long boards and edges | Search on Amazon |
| Stanley #78 Router Plane | Fine work for dados and in‑lay bottoms | View on Amazon |
Why These Hand Planes Are Great Choices
- Build Quality: Durable cast iron or ductile iron bodies resist warping and hold settings well.
- Replaceable Blades: Carbide or high‑carbon steel blades can be sharpened or replaced, giving long life.
- Adjustability: Easy depth and lateral blade adjustment make set‑up quick.
- Versatility: From rough shaping to fine finishing, different planes serve across woodworking tasks.
How to Choose a Hand Plane
- Match Plane Type to Task: Use bench planes for flattening boards, block planes for end grain, and specialty planes for joinery.
- Size Matters: Longer soles (like #7 jointers) are better for flattening long edges; smaller planes are great for touch‑ups.
- Blade Material: High‑carbon blades sharpen easily; some premium planes use improved steel or coatings for longer edge life.
- Ergonomics: Comfortable handles and good balance make planing less tiring.
Tips for Using Hand Planes
- Sharp Blades are Everything: A sharp plane blade will cut cleanly with less effort and tear‑out.
- Check Stock Flatness: Use winding sticks to see twist before planing boards.
- Adjust for Grain Direction: Take lighter passes when planing end grain or tricky grain patterns.
- Flatten the Sole: A quick lapping of the sole on a flat surface improves initial performance.
Final Thoughts
Hand planes are tools that reward skill and patience. A good bench plane like the Stanley #5 Jack Plane or a dedicated smoothing plane like the WoodRiver #4 will serve most woodworking needs. Add a quality block plane like the Stanley Sweetheart Block Plane for end grain and trim work, and you’ll have a solid set that handles everything from rough stock prep to fine finishing.
Explore the links above to find the specific sizes and styles that match your projects and your skill level, and you’ll be sawing, shaping, and smoothing like a pro in no time.