Core Specifications & Design
- Length: Approximately 9 to 9.75 inches long, making it compact and easy to control.
- Cutter Width: Typically features a 2-inch wide hardened and tempered steel cutting iron (blade).
- Base: Precision-ground cast-iron sole and sides for stability, flatness, and accurate registration across wood surfaces.
- Handles: Traditionally crafted from rosewood or hardwood on vintage models, while modern versions often utilize contoured high-impact polymer or plastic.
Key Features & Functionality
- Smoothing Purpose: Ideal for removing tiny, translucent wisps of wood to eliminate mill marks, tear-out, or surface irregularities on finished boards.
- Adjustability: Equipped with a brass depth adjustment nut and a lateral adjustment lever for precise control over cutting depth and iron alignment.
- The Frog: Features an adjustable metal frog that supports the iron right up to the mouth to help reduce chatter during cuts.
- First cataloged by Stanley in 1869, the No. 4 had one of the longest production runs in hand-tool history.
- Woodworkers and collectors often differentiate older models using the Bailey "type study," which tracks subtle design and logo changes from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century. Pre-1970 vintage models are especially prized for their heavier castings and fine fit-and-finish