Hand tool for woodworking focused on preliminary squaring and heavy stock removal, built to tackle rough timber efficiently. Comfortable ABS handle and precise adjustment reduce fatigue and help produce more consistent passes. Is the IRWIN Record Jack Plane the sensible workshop companion for beginners and regular users?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Cutting Quality: Aggressive stock removal for preliminary squaring, driven by the 2-inch carbon steel cutting iron.
- • Best for: Woodworkers needing a reliable workhorse for flattening and sizing rough boards, including beginners and tradespeople.
- • Not ideal for: Fine finishing work that requires a smoothing plane for very thin, tear-free shavings.
Cast grey iron body with a precision-machined base and carbon steel cutting iron deliver stable, effective planing. Robust lever cap, brass adjusting nut and ABS handle secure the blade and aid control.
Fast stock removal - with a 2-inch carbon steel cutting iron
Carbon steel cutting iron, paired with the jack plane design intended for preliminary work, enables heavier shavings and efficient material removal. The 2-inch (50mm) blade width balances control and coverage for general-purpose planing.
Reduces uneven surfaces quickly so rough timber can be brought close to size before finer work. Particularly useful when preparing sawn or warped boards for joinery.
Stable, true sole - with a high-quality cast grey iron body and precision-machined base
Cast grey iron construction provides a rigid, stable body while the machined base forms a flat reference surface for planing. Mass helps maintain contact and steady cutting across passes.
Helps achieve truer boards with fewer corrections, saving time when preparing stock for edges and faces. Stability is especially beneficial on longer boards where consistency matters.
Secure blade setting and fine tuning - thanks to lever cap and brass adjusting mechanisms
Robust lever cap with three pressure points and a brass locking nut holds the cutting iron firmly in place, while a brass adjusting nut and lateral lever allow precise depth and alignment adjustments.
Blade remains stable under heavier cuts, reducing chatter and uneven shaving. Fine adjustment makes it easier to dial in consistent shaving thickness for repeatable results.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for IRWIN Record Jack Plane
- Precision machined base - ensures flat reference surface for accurate pass-to-pass planing
- Robust lever cap - locks the blade with three pressure points for reliable stability
- Brass adjusting nut and lateral lever - enable precise depth and alignment adjustments for consistent shaving thickness across workpieces
- Impact-resistant ABS handle and knob - comfortable grip reduces hand fatigue during long sessions
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Hand plane
- Brand: IRWIN
- Model: Record Jack Plane
- Product ID: B0000DD744
- Overall length: 14-inch
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a jack plane best used for?
A: Jack planes are used for preliminary squaring and aggressive stock removal, making them suitable for taking rough-sawn timber closer to size before finer planing.
Q: Is this plane suitable for beginners?
A: User feedback highlights solid build and ease of use, and the jack plane is commonly recommended for beginners tackling rough timber.
Q: How is the blade secured and adjusted?
A: A robust lever cap with three pressure points and a brass locking nut secures the cutting iron, while a brass adjusting nut and lateral lever allow fine depth and alignment adjustments.
🏆 Our Verdict
Suited to hobbyists, carpenters and tradespeople who need a sturdy plane for initial stock removal and squaring. Durable cast grey iron construction, a precision-machined base and secure adjustment hardware deliver reliable, workshop-ready performance. While initial outlay can vary, the robust materials and secure settings suggest long-term value through years of regular use.
