Record Block Planes

Record Block Planes at Tooled-Up.com

Record Power has been a cornerstone of British tool manufacturing since 1912, earning an unrivalled reputation for producing precision hand tools that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering excellence. Their block planes represent over a century of expertise in creating woodworking tools that deliver exceptional performance, durability and value. Whether you're a professional joiner working on intricate detail work or a dedicated DIY enthusiast perfecting your craft, Record block planes offer the precision and reliability demanded by discerning woodworkers across the UK.

Block planes from Record are designed to excel at tasks requiring single-handed operation and fine control, making them indispensable for chamfering edges, trimming end grain, fitting doors, and refining smaller workpieces. The compact, low-angle design allows for superior control when working across grain patterns, whilst the robust cast iron construction ensures stability and longevity even under demanding workshop conditions. Tooled-Up.com stocks Record's carefully engineered block planes that feature precision-ground bases, accurately machined blade seats, and ergonomically designed bodies that reduce fatigue during extended use.

Each Record block plane is manufactured to exacting tolerances, with blade angles optimised for clean cutting across various timber species. The adjustable mouth allows users to control shaving thickness with remarkable precision, whilst the lateral adjustment mechanism ensures the blade sits perfectly square to the sole. These features combine to deliver the fine finish that Record tools have been renowned for throughout generations of British craftsmen.

Why Choose Record Block Planes?

Record's heritage in British manufacturing translates directly into the quality of their block planes. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, Record block planes benefit from decades of refinement and feedback from professional tradespeople. The brand's commitment to using premium materials—including high-carbon steel blades that hold their edge exceptionally well—ensures that these tools deliver consistent performance year after year. Record's attention to detail extends to every component, from the precision-machined adjustment mechanisms to the comfortable grip designs that reduce hand fatigue.

The reputation Record has built within the UK trades community is founded on reliability and value. Professional joiners and cabinetmakers trust Record block planes because they understand that tool failure or poor performance can compromise project quality and profitability. Record addresses this by implementing rigorous quality control standards and offering tools that represent genuine investment pieces rather than disposable equipment. The brand's UK heritage also means their tools are designed with British working conditions and preferences in mind, from handle ergonomics suited to extended use to blade angles optimised for commonly worked UK timber species.

Record's commitment to maintaining competitive pricing without compromising quality makes their block planes accessible to both professionals investing in workshop equipment and home woodworkers building their tool collection. This combination of affordability, durability and performance explains why Record continues to be specified by colleges, training centres and apprenticeship programmes throughout the United Kingdom.

Who Uses Record Block Planes?

Record block planes are essential tools for a diverse range of users including:

• Joiners and carpenters who require precise control for trimming joints, fitting doors and windows, and chamfering edges on-site
• Cabinetmakers working on fine furniture who need reliable tools for detail work and finishing touches
• Boat builders who appreciate the single-handed operation when working in confined spaces
• Musical instrument makers requiring precision tools for shaping and fitting delicate components
• Restoration specialists working on period properties who need traditional tools that match original craftsmanship standards
• Shopfitters who depend on portable, reliable tools for on-site adjustments and fitting work
• DIY enthusiasts undertaking home improvement projects who want professional-quality results
• Woodworking students and apprentices learning traditional hand tool techniques

Key Features of Record Block Planes

Record block planes incorporate several distinctive features that distinguish them from competitors. The precision-ground cast iron body provides a flat, stable base that's essential for achieving consistent results, whilst the substantial weight aids cutting momentum without requiring excessive downward pressure. Record's blade mounting system ensures rigid support across the entire cutting edge, eliminating chatter and producing clean, tear-free surfaces even on difficult grain patterns.

The adjustable mouth mechanism allows users to fine-tune the throat opening according to the task at hand—a wider opening for rapid stock removal and a narrower setting for ultra-fine finishing cuts. This adjustability, combined with Record's precision lateral adjustment lever, enables woodworkers to achieve shavings measured in thousandths of an inch. The blade depth adjustment wheel operates smoothly and predictably, allowing minute changes without disturbing the lateral setting—a refinement that professionals particularly appreciate when seeking that perfect final pass.

Record equips their block planes with high-carbon steel blades that are heat-treated for optimal hardness and edge retention. These blades accept and maintain razor-sharp edges, reducing the frequency of sharpening sessions and maintaining consistent performance throughout the working day. The comfortable finger rest or knob design (depending on model) provides secure grip and excellent control, crucial when working single-handed or on vertical surfaces. Many Record block planes also feature a quick-release cam lever that allows rapid blade removal for sharpening without tools.

Popular Record Block Planes

The Record range at Tooled-Up encompasses several block plane configurations to suit different applications and preferences. Standard block planes feature the classic low-angle design ideal for general-purpose work, making them the first choice for tradespeople requiring a versatile, go-to tool for daily tasks. These models typically measure between 150mm and 180mm in length, offering the perfect balance between portability and stability.

Low-angle block planes in the Record collection are specifically optimised for end grain work and difficult timber species. With blade angles around 12 degrees (creating an effective cutting angle of approximately 20 degrees when combined with the blade bevel), these planes slice cleanly through end grain fibres that would tear under standard-angle tools. Professional joiners particularly value these models for fitting door edges and trimming across grain on site.

Adjustable-mouth block planes from Record allow users to modify the throat opening to suit different materials and cutting depths. This versatility makes them particularly popular with cabinetmakers and fine woodworkers who work across a range of timber species and require both rapid stock removal and ultra-fine finishing capabilities from a single tool. Bull nose and finger planes within the Record range cater to specialised applications such as working into corners and stopped chamfers.

Safety and Compliance

Whilst block planes don't require electrical safety considerations, proper usage practices are essential for safe operation. Record block planes feature sharp cutting edges that must be handled with appropriate care—always ensure the blade is retracted or the plane is stored with the cutting edge protected when not in use. Keep hands behind the cutting edge at all times during operation, and ensure workpieces are securely held before commencing any planing activity.

When sharpening Record plane blades, follow appropriate safety procedures including using secure sharpening stone holders and maintaining proper hand positions. Always wear appropriate eye protection when grinding or honing blades to protect against metal particles. Store block planes in protective cases or with blade edge guards in place to prevent accidental contact and to protect the precision-ground cutting edge from damage.

Record recommends regular maintenance including cleaning, light oiling of metal surfaces to prevent corrosion, and periodic checking of adjustment mechanisms for smooth operation. Properly maintained Record block planes will provide decades of reliable service whilst maintaining safe operation throughout their working life. Ensure adequate dust extraction or wear appropriate respiratory protection when planing timber species known to produce irritant dust, in accordance with HSE guidance on wood dust exposure limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a block plane and a bench plane?

Block planes are smaller, designed for single-handed operation, and feature a lower blade angle (typically 12-20 degrees) with the bevel facing upward. This makes Record block planes ideal for end grain work, fine trimming, and tasks requiring portability and precise control. Bench planes are larger, used with two hands, and better suited to flattening and smoothing larger surfaces along the grain.

How often do Record block plane blades need sharpening?

Sharpening frequency depends on usage intensity and timber hardness, but Record's high-carbon steel blades typically maintain their edge well beyond budget alternatives. Professional users might sharpen weekly under heavy use, whilst occasional users may only need sharpening every few months. Signs that sharpening is needed include increased effort required to cut, burnished rather than clean-cut surfaces, and visible nicks in the blade edge.

Can Record block planes be used on hardwoods and softwoods?

Yes, Record block planes excel on both hardwoods and softwoods when properly set up and maintained. For harder species, ensure the blade is freshly sharpened and take lighter cuts. Adjust the mouth opening to suit the material—a tighter mouth setting helps prevent tear-out on difficult grain patterns. The quality of Record's construction ensures stability even when working dense hardwoods that might cause cheaper planes to chatter.

Are Record block planes suitable for left-handed users?

Record block planes are symmetrically designed and work equally well for both left and right-handed users. The central adjustment mechanisms and ambidextrous grip design mean they can be comfortably operated from either hand. This versatility makes them particularly practical for professional tradespeople who may need to work from different positions depending on site conditions.

What maintenance do Record block planes require?

Regular maintenance includes wiping metal surfaces clean after use, applying a light coat of camellia oil or similar rust preventative to cast iron components, and ensuring the blade remains sharp. Periodically check that the sole remains flat using a precision straight edge, and ensure adjustment mechanisms operate smoothly—a drop of light machine oil on threads and pivot points will maintain smooth operation. Store in a dry environment to prevent corrosion, ideally in a tool roll or box with the blade retracted.