Restoring a Vintage Hand Plane

Article 122: Restoring a Vintage Hand Plane

By: A Woodworker Who Trusts Old Tools More Than New Ones

A rusted No. 4 Bailey hand plane isn’t trash—it’s a treasure waiting to be restored. Here’s a complete restoration process for bringing it back to life.

Materials

• Evapo-Rust or white vinegar

• 220 and 400 grit sandpaper

• Polishing compound

• Boiled linseed oil or tung oil

• Wax for sole

Tools Needed

• Screwdrivers

• Wire brush

• Sandpaper

• Sharpening stones

• Buffing wheel (optional)

Steps

1. Disassemble the Plane

   • Remove all parts and keep track of washers and screws.

2. De-Rust and Clean

   • Soak metal parts in rust remover overnight. Scrub with brush.

3. Lap the Sole

   • Use 220 grit on a flat surface. Check with a square.

4. Sharpen Blade

   • Hone to 25°–30° angle. Polish the back and edge.

5. Refinish Tote and Knob

   • Sand lightly and apply oil or shellac.

6. Reassemble and Wax

   • Rebuild and apply paste wax to reduce friction.

Sketch – Plane Parts

Exploded View:

[ Blade ] ← sharpened bevel
[ Chipbreaker ]
[ Frog Assembly ]
[ Body ]
[ Knob ]   [ Tote ]