Kobalt #4 Bench Plane
- This topic has 9 replies, 6 voices, and was last updated 9 years, 6 months ago by
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Anyone try the new $30 Kobalt bench plane at Lowes home improvement store?
Robin ... Richmond, Virginia, USA
If this is the one it got a good Review
Yes, I just bought one at Lowes last week. I had to flatten the front of the cap, but besides that and an initial sharpening it was ready to go. The bottom is flat and the weight is solid. It is nearly identical to my dad’s old Stanley #4. For $30 I am very pleased. I’m using it to plane a computer desktop/workbench today.
I would rather rehab an old Stanley than try one of these. I am not saying they are bad I just know I can make an old Stanley work…. Plus the last Stanley #4 I purchased was $5.00 :).
You know what I do not get. The Stanley #4 1/2 planes are hard to find and cost 3 times what a #4 does, so … why aren’t these knockoff outfits like Lowes Kobalt making 4 1/2’s?
Robin ... Richmond, Virginia, USA
I don’t think this forum is the place to bad mouth other companies Robin.
I agree Ken. I love Lowe’s and have several Kobalt products. I wish I could buy an inexpensive #4 1/2 plane from them, or from any of the other stores that are selling planes based on the old Stanley planes.
Robin ... Richmond, Virginia, USA
Robin, I got my 4 1/2 off of craigslist just up 95 from you in the Washington DC area. $35 bucks. I am very pleased with it. They are out there just not as easy to find ad the 4’s and 5’s…John
Hi Robin)
I believe you can tune up any plane I remember you tuned old Record plane) So what’s the difference )) Just amount of time and sand paper you need to spend for tuning.Toronto, Canada
Hi Robin)<br>
I believe you can tune up any plane I remember you tuned old Record plane) So what’s the difference )) Just amount of time and sand paper you need to spend for tuning.You can always flatten the sole on any plane. The big difference is the quality of the casting (is the mouth straight and the right size), how well the frog is machined and fitted, how fine is the depth and lateral adjustment.
I have not looked at this kobalt plane but I have looked at some new $10 planes. Most things are ok with them the biggest difference from an old Stanley is the iron quality and the adjustments are very coarse. Once you get them setup for you they work but I would not trade them for an old refurbished Stanley.
Would be great if someone could make a resonantly priced plane like the kobalt that would still work good, it would be a great first learning experience for kids.
Dallas, Texas
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