Antique Wooden Try Plane — W. Ward Sheffield Cast Steel Blade

A handsome long wooden trying plane (also called a try plane or short jointer), approximately 21.5 inches (54.5cm) in length and 3.35 inches (8.5cm) wide. This is the classic British joiner's plane for truing long edges and panels — the workhorse of every carpenter's bench from the Victorian era right through to the mid-20th century.

THE BLADE

The cutting iron is clearly stamped with the famous Sheffield "Punch" trademark and reads "W. WARD" / "CAST STEEL" / "WARRANTED". W. Ward of Sheffield was one of the great 19th-century edge-tool makers, in the same league as I. Sorby, Marples and Mathieson. Sheffield cast steel was prized worldwide for holding a keen edge. The iron is fitted in the body with its original wedge.

THE BODY

Beech, single solid piece, with a beautifully sculpted closed-grip rear tote handle that sits perfectly in the hand. Honest dark patina to the sides and top from decades of use — exactly what a working plane of this age should look like. The sole shows the original mouth in good order with a darker insert visible around the mouth (either an original boxwood mouth-piece or a sympathetic period repair — common on quality try planes that have been kept in service).

CONDITION

Used antique condition with honest wear consistent with its age. Wedge sits firm, iron in place, all original. No splits, no rot, no major damage. Body remains true. Iron has working life remaining and will benefit from a sharpen before use. Ready for display or — once sharpened — to go back to work.

DIMENSIONS

Length: 54.5cm / approx 21.5 inches Width: 8.5cm / approx 3.35 inches Weight: approx 3kg (unpackaged) Single iron with original wedge

For the woodworker: Sharp Sheffield cast steel and a true beech sole — this plane was made to last centuries.

For the collector: A nicely marked W. Ward blade in a complete, original-condition wooden try plane. Display-worthy as is.

Combined postage available on multiple plane purchases — please ask before paying.