First eBay Plane. How'd I do?
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So, I finally successfully bid on a Stanley No 4. I was wondering if some of you more experienced folks could give me some feedback on my choice so that I can do better the next time around.
Here’s a link to the listing.
Did I get a good value? Are there any red flags in the description or the pictures that I should have picked up on? Is there anything in particular that I should check out when it arrives?
Thanks in advance.
Looks like a nice example to me. There’s something about a good quality vintage tool – it’s almost as if it has absorbed some of the spirit of its former owners, and by using it we honour them and the history of the craft.
From the UK, I can’t really comment on whether you got a bargain, except to say I doubt you’d get a better quality new plane if you paid 3 times as much.
These links might be useful for you:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvTcReENk9g
I had that same plane in my Watching list. The photos don’t tell much but from what I can see of the plane body it looks good. At least the seller didn’t try to gouge you for the cost of shipping. It was an incredible eye opening experience the first time I used a plane that I tuned following Paul’s instructions. Good luck with the new (to you) tool.
Looks like you did good. That plane should make you a very nice lifetime tool. The price is in line for the condition. You can get less expensive, but they require quite a bit of work. It will probably take you less than an hour to get it tuned per the links above. Then you will be off and running.
Congratulations and enjoy.
Looks like a good plane. It seems prices have come down, this time last year that plane would have gone for double that price. I think you got a good plane, enjoy!
Looks go to me, as stated by others, the price is fair for what I see in the photos. Funny side note, that is in the town I live in. What a coincidence.
My experience with ebay is that there is usually a couple more things to “fix” than what was shown in the listing, but I have found a lot of stuff that turned out really well. The one you picked up, danw, looks pretty good. I would be happy with it at that price.
I didn’t see a description of the plane or many pictures. If I were looking to buy that item with so little info, the first question I ask the seller is always about the condition of the tote and knob. Are there any cracks? Repairs? Is the head of the bolt that holds either of them stripped or rusted.
Most people might not care so much about a cracked tote ’cause they can just make a new one. I like to have the original tote damage free, ’cause they feel better in the hand, I think. Also, depending on what they are asking or what the price has worked up to, will determine if I am willing to make a new tote. Sometimes you can find a better plane for around the same price.I don’t know if you inquired about any of these points to the seller, but for future reference, it’s always good to do so that you aren’t disappointed when you open the box. If the seller doesn’t answer your questions or if it seems like they don’t know what you are asking, then I would pass and find a seller that knows their merchandise. This can apply to anything on ebay. Good luck with your future ebay buys. I hope you enjoy your plane!
Hi))
Congrats with the plane))
It’s hard to say from the pictures but:
It’s not type 16, in this type Stanley have: Kidney Style Lever Cap Hole, and tote have a 2 screws one on the top and one on the bottom.Lateral adjustment lever twisted, probably lost small tongue. But who cares about this small problems, if sole and sides don’t have cracks, no twist, all fixable with sand paper and enthusiasm and love))). Before you disassemble check the screws and use WD40 or other oil to prevent screws problems)
Good luck and be optimist) no worries all is great))
Cheers
Serhiy
I’d say you got yourself a pretty reasonable deal from the look of the photos. Once you’ve given it a once over and sharpened the blade you’ll have a perfectly good tool there. I always sharpen the blade and then give the tool a trial ‘as is’ before I ever start doing any work on it. That way I have something to compare and contrast against as I go along. Have lots of fun with your new acquisition.
It’s worth also looking out for ebayers who restore tools and sell them as such. That way you’re still getting a vintage-tool without worrying too much about possible issues.
The seller’s description was sparse, but it looks like a good tool.
Thanks everyone for your assessments and encouragement! I appreciate the advice on prepping and tuning as well.
@Nathan Thanks for the pointers about the tote and knob. The description says “Excellent Rosewood Tote and Knob”, but I guess “excellent” is subjective. I didn’t think to ask the seller any questions. I’ll keep this in mind for the future.@Serhiy Good catch, I haven’t learned very much about dating these planes. Do you have a best guess on the type, or would it take more information? I was trying to follow the advice to get a pre-60s model and I was also hoping to avoid the ones made during WWII (type 17), because I’d read something about them sometimes having problems due to resource constraints.
It’s hard to say from your pictures, in type 16 and later models they introduce new frog design(I can see curve from second picture). Don’t forget it can be assembled together from different parts.Please don’t pay attention to the types That Important Only for Collectors!!! You are User))) my only concerns to the plane: no major damages,handles all in one piece(you can glued with epoxy),enough steel for future lapping,screws not broken in inside, no twist on the sole, long enough blade for usage.
By the way type 17(1942-1945) they have heavier casting(nothing wrong with that), no brass,Black Paint or Red Stained Beech Handles.
Good luck with your plane)
Cheers
Serhiy.
Great points. Thanks again!
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