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How to choose the right one of these three tools for smoothing surfaces and making fine adjustments
A wood plane—either bench or block type—is the tool of choice to smooth surfaces, square boards, and make fine joint adjustments. A bench plane smooths and squares in line with the grain. The three main types are the jointer plane (about 22 inches long), the versatile and popular jack plane (14 inches long), and the smoothing plane (9 3/4 inches long). The shorter block plane—typically 6 inches long—smooths end grain and cuts bevels. To get the most from planes, keep them sharp and adjusted.
Wood rasps and files should only be used when planes or sanding tools aren’t suitable, such as on contours or cutouts. Files can handle metal as well, and perforated rasps will shape several kinds of materials. Tooth pattern, tooth coarseness, length (a longer tool has larger teeth), and shape determine performance. Common shapes include flat, half-round, and round. For general-purpose work, choose the half-round style.
