Smoothing Plane Stanley BAILEY Professional 1-12-003

The Stanley BAILEY Professional Smoothing Plane 1-12-003 is a general-purpose bench smoothing plane designed for precision woodworking tasks. Built with a precision cast fine grey iron body and a 45 mm blade, it is intended to produce smooth, controlled shavings and a refined surface on a wide range of timber. The plane includes an adjustable throat and a fully adjustable frog to suit different cutting depths and timber types, providing flexibility for both workshop and on-site use.

Advantages

The plane features a chrome carbon steel cutter that is hardened and tempered to retain a keen cutting edge, combined with fingertip adjustment for depth of cut and cutter alignment. A tight-fitting spring steel cap iron promotes perfect shaving flow while the kidney-shaped lever cap screw hole helps prevent accidental slippage of the cutter. The polypropylene handle and knob are shaped for comfort and designed to be virtually unbreakable, and the precision cast iron base ensures stability and wear resistance during use.

Suitable for

• Smoothing and finishing timber surfaces
• Removing small amounts of material for fit and finish
• Final preparation before sanding or finishing
• General bench work in workshop or on-site carpentry

Key specifications

• Blade width: 45 mm
• Cutter material: chrome carbon steel, hardened and tempered
• Body material: precision cast fine grey iron
• Adjustment: fingertip depth and alignment adjustment
• Frog: fully adjustable to suit various tasks and timber types
• Cap iron: spring steel, tight-fitting for consistent shaving flow
• Handle and knob: polypropylene, ergonomically shaped
• Intended use: general-purpose smoothing and fine finishing

How to use

Secure the plane blade and cap assembly, then set the blade depth using the fingertip adjustment to take fine shavings. Position the adjustable frog as required for the timber and the desired shaving thickness. Hold the plane by the handle and knob, apply even pressure, and push the plane along the grain for best results. Check blade sharpness periodically and maintain the cutting edge by honing or grinding as needed to preserve a smooth finish.

Usage recommendations

Use the plane with the blade aligned and taking light, consistent passes for the smoothest surface. Adjust the frog and throat opening to control shaving thickness and reduce tear-out on figured or difficult grain. Keep the cutter sharp and clean, and store the plane in a dry place to protect the cast iron body and steel components.