Do Primus planes suck?

Stephen M wrote:
> I have a little Primus block plane that I bought close to 20 years ago. I'm
> pretty sure that I got it at woodcraft on Woburn, MA
>
> http://www.tools-for-woodworking.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=574
>
> Every couple of years I wonder why I never use it, assume that I must not
> have ever gotten it really sharp.
>
> Try as I may, it just digs in and chatters. Most of my planes are of so-so
> quality but tuned to a reasonably functional state. But this one has just
> new worked well.
>
> Maybe it's just a lemon.
>
> Does anyone have one and like it?

E.C.E. plane. Primus is their metal adjuster model line.

I've got one of those block planes--thanks, Tom--and it works
beautifully. There are several possible reasons for it chattering,
including being dull. Try two things: sharpen it to within aninch of
its life; expose less blade.

"Stephen M" <[email protected]> wrote

>I have a little Primus block plane that I bought close to 20 years ago. I'm
> pretty sure that I got it at woodcraft on Woburn, MA
>
> http://www.tools-for-woodworking.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=574
>
> Every couple of years I wonder why I never use it, assume that I must not
> have ever gotten it really sharp.
>
> Try as I may, it just digs in and chatters. Most of my planes are of so-so
> quality but tuned to a reasonably functional state. But this one has just
> new worked well.

If it digs in, it is possibly skittering instead of chattering, though both
could happen of course!

For the difference, try my web site - Planing Notes - Skitter & Chatter.

With such a small plane that looks difficult to adequately hold, I'd guess
that skitter is more likely.

Jeff G

--
Jeff Gorman, West Yorkshire, UK
email : Username is amgron
ISP is clara.co.uk
www.amgron.clara.net