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Best Block Planes in 2025

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best block planes for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: May 15th, 2024

🔨Block planes are like the Swiss Army knives of woodworking. Small but incredibly versatile, they're perfect for tasks like trimming, smoothing, and planing wood surfaces. Whether you're fine-tuning a joint, working on end grain, or just taking off those little imperfections, a good block plane can be a game-changer.

We've dug into a ton of expert opinions and top reviewer picks to help you find the right one for your needs, so you can tackle any project with confidence.

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Overall Best: Lie-Nielsen 60½

Our top pick for the best block plane in 2024 is the Lie-Nielsen 60½. Renowned for its superior build quality and ease of use, this low-angle block plane excels in planing end grain, delivering a smooth finish with minimal effort. Its compact design is ideal for one-handed use, and the adjustable mouth allows for precise control tailored to your project needs. Crafted from high-quality materials, the Lie-Nielsen 60½ promises durability and longevity, making it a worthy investment for both professional woodworkers and committed hobbyists.

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Runner-up: Veritas DX60

Advanced Build Quality Veritas Mk.II Honing System -- by Veritas

The Veritas DX60 emerges as an excellent runner-up, combining exceptional performance with robust construction. Its comfortable grip, precise depth adjustment, and superior blade retention make it a standout choice. The low-angle design enhances its versatility, allowing it to handle tasks from trimming end grain to smoothing larger surfaces with ease. Although it comes at a higher price point, the premium build and performance of the Veritas DX60 justify the investment for serious woodworkers who want a reliable, high-performing tool in their arsenal.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$118.45 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Veritas Mk.II Honing System? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How does the Veritas Mk.II Honing System work?

The Veritas Mk.II Honing System is a handy tool if you're into woodworking or carpentry and need to sharpen chisels and plane blades effectively. It's known for being precise, which is great if you're serious about getting your tools just right. Now, it doesn’t come with [sharpening stones](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dsharpening%2Bstones%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), so you’ll have to buy those separately. But what really sets this system apart is the honing guide. It's got this blade registration guide that helps you align your blades perfectly, and you can adjust the bevel angles from 15° to 54°. It even lets you do back bevels from 10° to 20°, according to the manufacturer's product details. This setup helps you keep your sharpening consistent. From what we've gathered, folks who use it are quite pleased, especially because it makes getting sharp edges pretty straightforward. Manually getting the right angle can be tricky, but this system takes a lot of that guesswork out. Plus, it can handle different blade sizes, which makes it versatile. The build quality of the Mk.II is really solid. We've found that people often talk about its durability and reliable performance. Once you get the hang of setting it up, it becomes a must-have for maintaining your tools. Overall, if you're looking for accuracy and ease in sharpening, the Veritas Mk.II is worth considering. Yes, you'll need to grab a [sharpening stone](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dsharpening%2Bstones%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) separately, but for anyone serious about keeping their woodworking tools in top shape, this honing system could be a game-changer.

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Is the Veritas Mk.II Honing System worth the price?

If you're thinking about getting the Veritas Mk.II Honing System, it's good to know that it's pretty famous for how well it sharpens woodworking tools like chisels and plane irons. You might spot it in the 'Beauty & Personal Care' section on some online platforms, which is just a mix-up—it's definitely meant for woodworking. The manufacturer talks up its precision adjustable bevel angle, which is all about getting those tool edges just right. It's built from some tough stuff like die-cast zinc, precision-machined brass, and steel, making it both sturdy and long-lasting. This durability is a big reason why it's a favorite according to our research. What's really cool about the Mk.II is how consistent it is. Thanks to its micro-adjustment features, you can fine-tune the sharpening angles easily. It's a great fit if you're a woodworker who likes to keep tools sharp and reliable. Another nice touch is its versatility. The system works with a variety of abrasives, so you can tackle different tool sizes and blade types without a hitch. Our data suggests that many folks find it handy for dealing with a range of tool sizes, which is especially useful for carpenters needing a dependable sharpening setup. Even with occasional online listing errors, the Veritas Mk.II Honing System stands out as a solid option for those serious about keeping their woodworking tools sharp. Given its tough build, precision, and versatility, it's worth considering if sharp tools are a priority for you.

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What blade sizes can the Veritas Mk.II Honing System accommodate?

Hey there! The Veritas Mk.II Honing System is great for sharpening tools like chisels and plane blades. According to our research, it can accommodate a pretty broad range of bevel angles—from 15° to 54°. So, if you've got a variety of blades, this system should cover you. A nifty feature is its blade registration jig, which basically helps you set the bevel angle just right and keep the blade square. This is super handy if you're not totally confident doing it by hand. Plus, it has a three-position eccentric roller for creating micro-bevels, which adds that extra sharpness to the blades smoothly. From what we found, folks really like how it's built and how precise it is. Some even mentioned that it can revive tools that haven't been sharpened in a while and get them back to peak performance. It's consistent and simplifies keeping your tools in top shape without too much hassle. So, if you need a reliable way to sharpen different blade sizes efficiently, this system seems like a solid choice!

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Budget Pick: Lie-Nielsen 102

For woodworkers on a budget, the Lie-Nielsen 102 is the best choice. This small, low-angle block plane delivers excellent performance without breaking the bank. Its compact size makes it easy to handle and perfect for fine detail work. Despite its affordability, the Lie-Nielsen 102 maintains high standards of quality, featuring a sharp, durable blade and a flat sole for smooth, precise cuts. It’s an ideal option for hobbyists or beginners needing a reliable, cost-effective block plane.

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Best for Extra-Small Applications: YOGEON Tiny

When it comes to precise, intricate tasks, the YOGEON Tiny is a fantastic choice. Weighing just 2.7 ounces and measuring only 3.15 inches in length, this ultra-compact block plane offers exceptional control for delicate projects. It's perfect for model making or working in tight spaces where larger planes won't fit. The YOGEON Tiny is easy to disassemble for quick blade changes and boasts a durable design, making it a handy addition to any woodworker's toolkit.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$9.99 at Amazon

Best High-End Option: E.C. Emmerich 649P

For woodworkers seeking unparalleled craftsmanship, the E.C. Emmerich 649P is the high-end option to consider. Handcrafted with meticulous precision, this block plane offers unmatched quality and durability. It features a comfortable grip, easy blade height adjustment, and an intricately designed body that stands out in any tool collection. This premium tool is perfect for seasoned woodworkers who value fine craftsmanship and are willing to invest in top-tier equipment.

Available at Amazon

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Best Japanese-Style Option: KAKURI 41938

For those drawn to Japanese woodworking tools, the KAKURI 41938 is an excellent choice. Larger than the average block plane, it is designed to handle extensive planing tasks effortlessly. The wooden body provides a natural, textured grip, and its design allows for smooth and efficient material removal. Ideal for experienced woodworkers looking to explore traditional Japanese techniques, the KAKURI 41938 offers a unique blend of tradition and functionality, making it a standout tool.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$48.99 at Amazon

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