First, the minus one: lever cap is aluminium, not a solid aluminium, but a hollow one. I still give it 5 stars, because it still not proven that it is not durable. As long as it is not overtighten, I guess everything will be ok. Another minus is the norris adjuster, sloppy. Wanna fix it? A little MacGyver things can do the trick. Use a seal tape one usually use it to seal the pipes on plumbing job. Apply on the pin that hold the hole on the blade. Problem solved. Still sloppy? Use the tape again, this time, apply on the pin that attached to the plane's body. Done? How is it now? I guess it will perform like LN or V brand! The depth adjuster is loose? No problem, apply the same tape, the same MacGyver thing along the metal Thread. Now the adjuster feel snug and not to become loose easily.
Besides the minus things, what I have got here is a masterpiece! Made of a ductile cast iron, it won't crack easily, even you drop it from your work bench. The blade is A2 steel, very thick, like low angle plane blades, very strong, sharp out of the box. But you still need to polish it. I think no need to touch up the plane bed. I believe it flat enough. Still need 30 minutes top for lapping the sole.
This plane is really a new animal. It combines the best features from bevel down planes with the best features from bevel up/ low angle planes. Among others, it has adjustable mouth. Although it does not have stopper like V brand, it won't slamed your blade and incidentally destroy the edge. Fixed bed for stability, nice cap iron, ready to use, flat style, not humpback, norris adjuster.
Too bad, once again, stanley made it half hearted caused this plane suffered from several flaws. With better QC, and better accuracy on norris style adjuster, this plane will be unbeatable!
| Brand | Stanley |
|---|---|
| Material | Blend |
| Color | Multi |
| Product Dimensions | 12.7"L x 3"W x 6.7"H |
| Style | Classic |
| Included Components | STANLEY - 12-136 |
| Cutting Width | 2 Inches |
| Manufacturer | Stanley |
| Part Number | 12-136 |
| Item Weight | 5.86 pounds |
| Item model number | 12-136 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Size | One Size |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Certification | certified frustration-free |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
| Warranty Description | Limited lifetime |
