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Up for sale is a Stanley #33 “transitional” jointer plane in good, usable condition!
Typically these planes are completely blown out on the sole from years of heavy use and rough handling. This plane, in spite of the slight damage, is only lightly used and has a near perfect sole.
Originally, this plane was purchased to assist in building a large home in Ontario, California, around 1903-5. . Once the home was finished, most of the owners woodworking tools were put into the barn tool storage and never really used again. The more common planes had more use but were also solid metal construction so they really don’t wear out much.
After sitting neglected for over 100 years, it started to rust and suffered at the hands of either termites or some rot. The damage to the sole was only where the plane was touching the ground (concrete) so I think it’s just moisture caused rot damage.
All of the parts were broken down and given a soak in chemical rust remover. A good amount of the original japanned finish remains and unaffected by the chem dip. Both the iron and chip breaker had heave rust so those stayed in the rust remover a bit longer. You can clearly see all of the factory markings but I opted to not wire brush the layer of rust scale present.
The wood parts have been wiped down with a furniture wax to prevent them drying out and all 3 pieces are in good shape. There’s fine cracks but actual splits or breaks. Both tote and knob secure tightly when screwed down.
The frog is the earlier version with rounded wood screws attaching it directly to the sole. Both holes are original and have not been retapped. They hold tightly in the originals which is a great indicator of its low usage.
Its iron has been dressed and sharpened properly with an Eclipse jig on a surface plate to ensure an even sharpening.
It seems to make some decent curls but will work much better once fully setup properly. It also will need a bit more sharpening. It’s like a razor now but the outer edges weren’t fully dressed.
The last picture is my Starrett fabrication square against the sole. There’s no dishing or tunneling present. I doubt a feeler gauge could sneak by the square. It was checked at 3 locations and all were the same
