Luban's Number 1 Shoulder Plane sacrifices nothing for the smaller size
Even at this small scale the design of this plane works astonishingly well. At 135 x 13mm, weighing in at around 350g, it is equally easy to use with one hand or two.
The long lever extends beyond the adjuster, preventing inadvertent alterations to the blade setting in use, and the deep swoop at the front provides a nice positive rest for the thumb or forefinger. An adjustable mouth and a clever twin thread adjustment mechanism provide fine control of the blade position.
The body is cast in unbreakable CR40, with a T10 blade and all other components cast or machined from stainless steel.
Another refinement is that the lever is captive at low tensions, so the plane won’t disassemble itself while you are making adjustments. In short, if this isn’t the perfect cabinetmakers shoulder plane, it’s very close to it.
Luban No 1 Shoulder Plane Features
- Precision ground, unbreakable CR40 alloy steel casting.
- Engineered lateral adjuster with guide bearing and brass tab.
- Low profile cap iron.
- Brushed finish stainless steel lever cap.
- Hardwood handles.
Why should you buy a Luban No 1 Shoulder Plane?
While many of Luban's competitors manufacture number one planes as a bit of a gimmick or collectors item, Luban's shoulder planes sacrifice absolutely nothing to achieve such a timeless yet economical design, credit to the brand's famous design principles and the strength of this time-tested shoulder plane manufacturing style.
The Luban Number One Shoulder Plane is phenomenal at accessing tight areas for cornering or fine angled work and is extremely comfortable to use one handed, although unlike many planes this size can also be effectively utilised with two. The linishing is superb across these models and the build quality materials are unsurpassed at this price point. Don’t get sucked in to overpriced, poor quality planes with poor fittings and plastic handles! All Luban planes are genuinely crafted with wooden handles, meaning they’re a pleasure to work with for long periods.