The above illustrates all the adjusting mechanism; the other parts of the plane are as follows: “handle” (11); “knob” (12); “handle bolt” and “nut” (13); “knob bolt” and “nut” (14); “handle screw” (15); “bottom,” or “stock” (16).
Fig. 49.—Setting a Plane.
The face, or sole, of the plane (b) must be perfectly straight, or good work cannot be done. The ends of the plane (h and t) are called the “heel” and “toe,” respectively. The “mouth” of the plane (between 6a and 2) must be kept clear of shavings, or it may become clogged.
(E.) In setting a plane, do not pass the fingers over the face, or sole, as cut fingers may result. Hold the plane as shown in Fig. 49, and look toward the light, when the exact projection of the cutter may be seen. Notice the position of the fingers of the left hand, and that the eye glances from toe to heel. This leaves the right hand free to make the adjustments. This is a workmanlike way of setting a plane, and in this, as in all handling of tools, awkwardness should be avoided.
40. Sharpening a plane.—(A.) An important part of this process is the grinding of the cutter. Set the cap back about ⅛” from the edge of the iron, and use it as a guide by which to grind the iron perfectly square, as at A, Fig. 50. The cap iron should be kept perfectly square, and never touched except to fit it to the cutter, or, if it is too thick to allow the shavings to pass freely, to file the top of it to the proper thickness. If the tool is kept in order skillfully, the cap will need care only upon rare occasions.
Fig. 50.—Whetting and Grinding of
Plane.
(For explanation, see text.)
The cutter should be held firmly to the grindstone or emery wheel and kept moving from side to side to prevent wearing the stone in one place. The grinding should all be done upon the beveled side of the cutter, which should be held upon the stone at an angle of about 20° (as at B, Fig. 50), more rather than less, as a thinner edge is apt to “chatter,” or vibrate, if it strikes a hard place in the wood. Many workmen use a rest when grinding; this insures a true bevel. Any device which holds the tool firmly at the same place on the stone will do for a rest.