Toothing plane with metal base

Tim_H · 22 Jun 2014

I have just been given my first toothing plane, blade by Aaron Hildick, body by G P Preston & sons of Sheffield, it has a metal base plate. Looking forward to cleaning it up and using it.

Is the base plate likely to be a later attachment?

Will post a picture if anyone interested.

jimi43 · 22 Jun 2014

Post away...always interested in pictures and toothing planes!

Jimi

AndyT · 23 Jun 2014

Metal bases (cast with a shallow rim) were listed in tool catalogues alongside other plane parts. I've also seen simpler adaptations where an owner has fixed on a piece of steel or brass, using woodscrews up into the sole.

So it could be original or a later mod. How neatly fitted is it?

BTW, you probably know that GP Preston was a general tool dealer, unconnected to the Birmingham maker Edward Preston.

Tim_H · 23 Jun 2014

Thank you, I had done a brief search on t'internet when I got the plane yesterday, I had found another example of Aaron Hildick' s blades, also a toothing blade by coincidence. I came across E. Preston but the Birmingham versus Sheffield locations were a good pointer to them not being related. I had not realised one was a maker and the other a dealer, so appreciate that information.

The problem with wooden planes is that I am finding it hard to stop them multiplying in my workshop, they are just really nice objects,and have character and history that my power tools, whilst very useful, just do not possess. Having said that I am quite fond of my little "free" Burgess bandsaw, which is as old as me but better looked after!

I will take some photos and post asap.