Wow, thanks for this review Jamie. And thanks to Veritas too. 👍 I didn't know about the custom Veritas planes until this video. I'm now VERY interested in purchasing one of these new planes. I use hand planes a lot in my woodworking. Sounds like I can enjoy this new tool!
I’ve always wanted a cabinet full of lie Nielsen tools, but veritas seems to make everything cheaper, more innovative designs, more options, and tools that are actually in stock! Speaks a lot to the powerful draw of the traditional look of lie Nielsen, otherwise it seems like the contest between the two is over.
Do you own a lie nielson? The traditional look has nothing to do with it they absolutely wipe the floor with veritas. Clifton wipe the floor with veritas aswel they really aren't that good a plane, especially for the price.
Lol I switched all my tools from LN to Veritas because I like Veritas better. LN were my users but not anymore. The only non Veritas I have is a vintage Clifton 4 with pmv11 iron. Have you tried the Veritas Custom line?
Man, I am really excited to see your channel keep growing, I found you when you only had a few hundred subscribers and it wasn’t that long ago! I love your content, you are a fantastic speaker and teacher. Keep goin!!
Wow this was SO worth watching! I thought I had a good idea of what was different/better but I was way off the mark I couldn't agree more with your outro. Lee Valley continue to impress with their ground-up rethinking of what a tool could be, that alone is rare enough but their consistent innovation to provide _what would be of most use to the most users_ I think makes them unique.
i bought a custom 5 with flat knob and small trad tote, 45 frog and pmv11 blade...LET ME STATE THIS CLEARLY-This is hands down the best plane I have ever used. I have other pmv11 planes, lie nielson, vintage restored sweethearts, and wood river jack. Ot blows them all away in performance, features and feel. If I knew, I have bought the veritas bevel up jointer pmv and all the rest would be custom for my bench planes.
I agree 100%! I did sell all my others and got the custom line, still have more to go but idk if I can give up my Green Clifton no 4. the Veritas custom performs "better" than it but something about that Clifton just keeps attracting me to it so I use that for the 45 frog and have my Veritas 4 with a 55 frog. If you haven't tried a 55 frog in the custom it is a DREAM to use! *almost* replaced my scraper plane but I have a ton of CrAzY curly oak that literally tares out in chunks if I use anything other than a scraper or sandpaper. sometimes it actually tares out with the scraper. that's how bad it is hahaah
I will say that the Norris on this has tighter tolerances than vintage ones. Vintage ones I've tried always seemed loose or weak lol this isn't that. I get you about more iron to hold onto, I got use to the smaller iron after some practice
I watch a Canadian maker who I really respect, who said once that he didn't like Veritas, but didn't say why. I think my next Plane will be a Veritas No. 7. I also think that if you tell someone you don't like something, you'd better say why!
@@BatCaveCreations At the time of his comment, I don't think so, even though he uses a fair bit of Woodriver product. You can likely guess who I've been talking about, given all I've said.
Ah.... he had a huge run in with veritas that's why he doesn't like them. Shame too cus they are both Canadian, you think he would back a Canadian company but noooope. He went with China and $$ :(
Im thinking about getting one of the custom veritas 5 1/2 jack planes but im kinda worried that the shorter blade wont be long enough to to fit my honing guide. Do you know if they're long enough to fit a traditional honing guide(not the veritas honing guide)?
That is a great question! The iron are shorter but they still fit into honing guides with no issues. I've tried a few different kinds of guides with them and everything worked fine
I have a Stanley low bob 4 and 4 1/2. From my dad, from his dad. Never had any using problems. I bought a Veritas 4 on a cash windfall whim, but resold it before using it! Main reason was the rear handle. But, good luck to you multi millionaire working woodworkers who can afford them.
When you order the custom it can be changed to the style you want. Trust me I wish I was a multimillionaire. I bought this plane used for the price of a 604 basically. 99% of woodworking is preference, the stanley is yours and that is 100% allowed :)
@@BatCaveCreations Okay. Enjoyed you videos. Cut your joints as tight to your marks/pencil setting out to save on incidental tools. For example, no need for shoulder planes! But, you might know that already. Take care.
@@johnpayne6196 100% agree!! In reality you can use like 1 plane, 2 chisels, and a saw and build stuff. deff don't need a lot of tools to enjoy the craft and build stuff!
If you could pick one custom plane from veritas, I’m thinking the difference between a smoother jack jointer. Which custom plane would you get? honestly, I’m kind of torn between a four and a five so maybe a 4.5?
The 4.5 isn't long enough for flattening tasks. If I could only pick 1 plane, like only plane I was ever allowed to use it would be a 5. It is the Jack of all trades cus it can flatten and smooth. It doesn't like "excell" at either but it is the happy medium between like a 4 and a 7.
I love the custom line to bits but I wish they had "standard" style chipbreaker screw. Not because of stripping but because I don't want an extrh tool or tiny screw to loose in a pile of wood shavings. To be honest I've thought about turning a dedicated handle to epoxy an allen head bit into so it's easier to keep track of. No idea how to never drop (or easily find when I DO drop) the screw though.
@@BatCaveCreations Dro I think you just solved my problem! Tiny mechanics magbowl right on my driver. I actually have a few of those 3/16" magnets kicking around 🤔
Yup. Absolutely bang on! Been watching a lot of your videos. great stuff. Why would I buy a Lie Nielsen when I can spend 1/2 the price and get the genuine article? When tuned correctly, there is absolutely no advantage that a LN has over a vintage bedrock. I like Veritas for exactly the same reason, comfort. Also, I've never met a LN that I can use for extensive amounts of time. One thing to note is that even though the customs have basically the same length, they actually have less reference for large surface smoothing (could be preferred in some cases). They have slightly shorter peripheral reference on either side of the blade, making them follow the flat a bit more if the surface is wider than the plane itself. Is there a practical difference? probably if one is anal retentive, but very little and only if you take multiple strokes in same direction to compound the errors each time.
Thank you and I agree!! I love what you added at the end. That is something I never really thought about but it is something I'll pay attention to now. I'll have to check it on the 5 too, I use thay to flatten then reach for the 4 for final passes hopefully any errors are gone by then lol
Another great review Jamie. 👍👍👍 Veritas has clearly done some innovative thinking about how these tools are actually used and maintained. Interesting to note the similarities and evolution from some hundred-years-gone-by experiments in terms of functional development that never really caught on, from both Stanley and Sargent. We all know about learning lessons from history to avoid repeating mistakes. Veritas is looking in the right places but they haven't quite solved the quick-and-easy sharpening problem in a completely satisfying way - if that was their goal. The shark-fin shape of the Veritas Custom distinctly echos the old Stanley/Gage (Self Setting G3, G4, etc.) planes from the 1920's and 30's, while the Veritas Standard shape reminds us of the slightly earlier Sargent Auto-Set design (VBM 708, 710, etc.). Both of these long-gone planes had a combined chip-breaker/lever-cap device (not really a lever cap, as they were secured, like the Veritas, with a knurled thumb screw), that allowed the iron to be quickly removed for sharpening and re-installed without losing the plane's settings. Only Sargent's system avoided the pesky extra chunk of steel screwed to the iron. One little gripe I'd offer about the Veritas Custom is the fussy and imminently misplace-able Allen wrench needed to remove the chip-breaker - LV might wanna consider an on-board clip or slot right on the plane to keep it close at hand. And that strippable little screw is gonna be a problem in the long term for sure. Just think about all the chipped lever-caps on old Baileys, mutilated by busy or distracted woodworkers, who didn't take the time to grab an appropriate screwdriver to detach the chip-breaker. Obviously there's still room for some further improvement to get to a truly simple one-step system for iron removal and sharpening. Maybe Veritas could get Jony Ive, of Apple fame, on board, to really think outside the box on plane design. 🤔🤔🤔 Another gripe: Like a lot of folks that make stuff, I'm a sucker for functional tools that are durable and look good. I wish Veritas would quit sticking such fugly slab-sided totes on their otherwise beautiful and functional tools. 😄😄😄 Maybe I'm lucky to have a hand that fits a classic Bailey one-size-fits-all rosewood tote. Wrapping my hand around that perfectly shaped beauty is one of the great tactile pleasures of woodworking. I've never felt the need for different shaped totes on my planes (although to be completely honest, I kinda prefer a low knob). Every bench plane in my arsenal has essentially the same tote although the planes are all different shapes and sizes. Veritas has, in my opinion, solved a problem that didn't, or barely, existed, with an unnecessary complication. I'm okay with complexity, if it works well and simplifies the user experience - the Auto-Set has a fascinating complexity. As Robert Venturi famously said: I like complexity and contradiction. But I'm not okay with uncalled-for complicatedness. Nonetheless, extremely cool to see Veritas mining the dustbin of history. Carpentry - the second oldest profession. Makes one wonder which ideas will come back around in another hundred years - assuming we haven't killed off all the trees by then, and someone can put their 3D printer aside long enough to manually shape a chunk of good-old-fashioned genuine tree carbon.
sorry for the delay! I really wanted to read and dive into this comment when i had time :D you are correct about the shark fin! That didnt dawn on me till i read it here lol I would love on-board storage for that allen key! that would be amazing cus ur right we would have to look for it and find a place to store it. but if it was on board, no issue, no lost item, and time saver! I love your addition about the tote, that is a tough one tho, cus some ppl love the big tote and others dont. the other thing to think about is that we can get smaller totes for kiddos and get them in the shop more. 3D printed trees! hahahah i love it!!! Thank you as always for your comment! hearing your ideas and opinions is always a joy and always well said!!! Hope you are well and still building beautiful boats and homes!
One thing you did not mention it looks like with the newer style Norris adjuster being a lot lower down and no where as far back if you have the tension set in the cap in the sweat spot you should be able to adjust the depth on the fly with just your index finger basicaly giving it the same advantage that the Baily style adjester has.
I would love to say this was the case. I believe that was the intention in the design but I haven't been able to find the sweet spot to advance with 1 finger and not move the lateral. I will mention I haven't like dedicated my focus on this a lot so it may be possible I just haven't experienced it so far :/ With this design tho, I am able to rest my hand ok the tote and adjust with my thumb and indext while moving the plane till it starts cutting then no further advancement is needed
Well…. If this review were any more thorough, I would have thought that you secretly owned a large stock holding with Veritas! You do a better review than Veritas does Jamie and it’s a hoot seeing you hyperventilate and salivate 😂😂
Hi, do you have to order the full custom and then buy the knob, frog angle, slow norris, etc you want the replace the ones Veritas sells as default??? I was expecting an option list to choose the parts you want, but Lee Valley site just sells a "Standard Custom" version (so it's not custom options, am I missing something??).
Hey! I thought the same thing but you can order custom you have to give then a call. It's easy to do so don't stress on that. They ask what you want, you specify and boom ordered :D
Sorry for the comment on an older video but I have a question for you regarding the Veritas adjustment. The lateral adjustment seems like it would be easy to knock out of place when making depth of cut adjustments or if you hold the plane in awkward angle. Do you have any comments regarding the lateral adjustment?
I love this! Great question! The lateral adjust doesn't get altered when making depth adjustments. Idk how it works but the lateral is held strong in place when the cap is tightened down. Sometimes I still use a hammer to tap tap the lateral. So when you adjust depth it doesn't more. That was a concern I had as well. I should have pointed that out. Thank you!
Good video. Thanks for sharing your insights. I remember when Lee Valley came out with these custom planes. They had a whole section of their website dedicated to customizing the plane. You'd pick the body, knobs, totes, frogs, etc... Now all I see is buy the base model and if you want a different frog, tote, knob, etc... you have to buy them separately. I haven't been able to find that section recently. Maybe I'm just missing something?
You would call them to order the diff parts :) I thought the same thing so I asked them and all you do is call, tell them the no you want, they will ask about the frog, tote and knob you want and BOOM ordered :D
How long did it take for you to get your plane after you ordered? I have heard some say they haven't received theirs after almost a year @@BatCaveCreations
@SaintFredrocks I bought this one used :( my custom 5 was in stock when I ordered it. I am still waiting on a course toothed iron I ordered on November I think :(
I guess I'll get the LN 5-1/2. If one of the customs becomes available I guess I could compare the two and keep the one I like better. That is the nice thing about quality tools and guitar effects pedals too: they retain their value pretty well@@BatCaveCreations
Yes you can! They sell one that screws into the sides and slides, like the fence on the jack rabbet plane And I have to agree with you haha I love the new one tho reminds me of a shark fin or.... batman! Hahahaa
Hey! Only slightly! I expected alot more resistance but it wasn't bad at all. It was A LOT easier than trying to push a BU plane with a 38* iron. (About the same cut angle)
How come there is more metal in the standard one but the custom one cost much more? Hahaha.. i understand the R&d price... but does custom one do really more unless you add different frogs?
the main idea behind it is that it can do different angles with different frogs. Plus you can screw in a fence to the sides. Pick your tote and knob. Ect. It would be the last smoother you need because it has all those options. The cost is also reflective in the better machining applied to is over the standard line of their plane. It is way more in tune than the standard imo.
@@BatCaveCreations thank you. You know your stuff. Wished Veritas had lower the price (and I would have bought at least 3 custom planes with different frogs and accessories).At this price range, it is less accessible to th common person. I feel that you have to win lottery (or a RUclipsr) to be a hobbiest hand tool wood worker. Professionals buy festools (and it gets on my nerves that they robe our nose in it on RUclips) Sometimes I feel that these hand tools companies want you to buy electrical tools. RIYOBI ones or worse Black and Deckers...
@amohtash I am sorry you feel that way, just know that basically all of my tools were bought used and over years. I put in alot of work (tool flipping, RUclips, and my full time job) to save up and get to the tools I have now. I know there are some RUclipsrs out there with high income from videos, sponsors, ect. I am not one of them. I put way more (time and money) into make the videos then I get out of them. I make videos to help others and because I enjoy it. The little bit I get from RUclips has helped upgrade video equipment and such to keep making videos. And in some months helped me pay my bills. I say all of this only because I want you to know what you see on my channel didn't happen over night and it took alot of work and savings (I also borrow alot of tools from people to make videos). You can get there too it just takes time. My first plane was a Kobalt from Lowes and my first chisels were Project Source from Lowes that was in 2018 just to Give you an example of how long all of this took me lol
@BatCaveCreations hello again, thank you for your fast replies. My main point was about the manufacturers and when talking about youtubers, I did not mean you but some youtubers who get products and other goods or 10% or 15% on sales by manufacturers. When it all started, wood workers were able to learn new skills and methods or build new jigs by sharing their ideas on RUclips. Today, most youtubers are selling the manufacturer jigs and tools. That is not your case. I've watched a lot of your videos as you explain the difference between different types of tools, etc. You are not like someone we all know who under the cover of teaching, is selling Woodriver or other tools... or those guys who "binge" review tools from China or a particular brand. I met with a high executive from a big brand and he said they are spending much less in ads and promotions of their tools as they have these youtubers who do their promotions for nothing. Since then, as soon as I hear a youtuber saying I've been given the tool but not paid. I just remember what that guy told me. Then there are youtubers like you who are honest and are not trying to place products. Thank you for being true.
@amohtash ah I see what you are saying and 100% agree sorry I kinda went on a rant haha You are right tho there are alot of youtubers I won't watch because I feel like it is all about then promoting products that make them money. Not just because they like the tools and think they are good. I mean even Cosman has to Cosminize the products he promotes but I won't go on another rant about that hahhahha
A heavier plane is easier to push through the cut -heavier is usually better up to a point you need to be opened minded in some of your opinions a control your biases. Veritas does make a excellent hand plane to be sure but so do many other manufacturers.
@@BatCaveCreations Yes, don't get me wrong the plane is awesome, but you can't adjust the iron depth on the fly while plaining. You have to stop and move your hands off of the tote or knob.
@@dan__________________ ah I get you, I do have to take my hand off the tote but I rest it on top of the tote hahah deff different than the norm! but so am I! ahahaha
I just can't get past the norris adjustment, so akward. While innovative, I gotta question why change what has worked for decades? I must give Veritas the value for $$$ though, but not as much of a Veritas fan boy as you. Glad to see the channel grow
I didn't like the norris at all on the old style. but I really like it on this one, mainly because it is lower? i think? lol I know the old design that has worked for decades but it can be better imo. Do we really wanna stop there and just say well it works so lets keep doing that? you know? If car companies did that we would still be driving model-Ts haha The changes are an improvement imo, it is smother and easier to use, no chatter or backlash. The bailey design does get chatter and backlash, also the adjustable mouth on these makes frog adjustment unnecessary. Set screws help too. I am deff a fan boy now, cant help it. I love what they are doing for the woodworking community and that they continue to look for was to make the tool easier and more effective. I know I kinda ranted lol Always remember 99% of woodworking is preference and a lot of tools are buy and try. ill never knock anyone if they don't like Veritas :) Also, thank you! the channel is growing a lot faster than I would have ever anticipated!
I like the fact that someone is trying to innovate. It won’t always work and sometimes it’ll come down to user preference but eventually they’ll hit on something big!
Bit silly defending the tiny frog and backiron. If you know the intended purpose you know the effectiveness of a heavy frog/backiron. 100% you WILL get more chatter with that veritas over a heavier Bailey type plane. Go plane a piece of brown oak and tell me there isn't a difference.
If you could pick one custom plane from veritas, I’m thinking the difference between a smoother jack jointer. Which custom plane would you get? honestly, I’m kind of torn between a four and a five so maybe a 4.5?
I responded but I guess it didn't post lol The 4.5 is too small to do most flattening tasks. The no 5 is the sweet spot between a 4 (smoother) and 7 (flattener). Imo the 5 does not excell at either BUT if I could only pick one plane and it's the only plane I could ever use it would be a 5. Hope that helps!!!
Wow, thanks for this review Jamie. And thanks to Veritas too. 👍
I didn't know about the custom Veritas planes until this video. I'm now VERY interested in purchasing one of these new planes.
I use hand planes a lot in my woodworking. Sounds like I can enjoy this new tool!
I’ve always wanted a cabinet full of lie Nielsen tools, but veritas seems to make everything cheaper, more innovative designs, more options, and tools that are actually in stock! Speaks a lot to the powerful draw of the traditional look of lie Nielsen, otherwise it seems like the contest between the two is over.
I 100% agree with you there!!
Agreed
Do you own a lie nielson?
The traditional look has nothing to do with it they absolutely wipe the floor with veritas.
Clifton wipe the floor with veritas aswel they really aren't that good a plane, especially for the price.
Lol I switched all my tools from LN to Veritas because I like Veritas better.
LN were my users but not anymore. The only non Veritas I have is a vintage Clifton 4 with pmv11 iron.
Have you tried the Veritas Custom line?
Not a word about woodworking whatsoever. Nice
Man, I am really excited to see your channel keep growing, I found you when you only had a few hundred subscribers and it wasn’t that long ago! I love your content, you are a fantastic speaker and teacher. Keep goin!!
Thank you so much!!! That means alot to hear!!! Imma keep at it for sure cus I'm having way to much fun now 😄 🤣
Wow this was SO worth watching! I thought I had a good idea of what was different/better but I was way off the mark I couldn't agree more with your outro. Lee Valley continue to impress with their ground-up rethinking of what a tool could be, that alone is rare enough but their consistent innovation to provide _what would be of most use to the most users_ I think makes them unique.
YES!!!! Exactly!!! and thank you!!! :D
i bought a custom 5 with flat knob and small trad tote, 45 frog and pmv11 blade...LET ME STATE THIS CLEARLY-This is hands down the best plane I have ever used. I have other pmv11 planes, lie nielson, vintage restored sweethearts, and wood river jack. Ot blows them all away in performance, features and feel. If I knew, I have bought the veritas bevel up jointer pmv and all the rest would be custom for my bench planes.
I agree 100%! I did sell all my others and got the custom line, still have more to go but idk if I can give up my Green Clifton no 4. the Veritas custom performs "better" than it but something about that Clifton just keeps attracting me to it so I use that for the 45 frog and have my Veritas 4 with a 55 frog. If you haven't tried a 55 frog in the custom it is a DREAM to use! *almost* replaced my scraper plane but I have a ton of CrAzY curly oak that literally tares out in chunks if I use anything other than a scraper or sandpaper. sometimes it actually tares out with the scraper. that's how bad it is hahaah
I just got a 4 1/2 Custom. And I have a 4 1/2 Lie Nielsen that I just love.
But this custom plane from Veritas is a real game changer.
Great video, Jamie. I would invest in Lee Valley stock, but they are privately owned. Great tools, customer service, and Canadian to boot.
Thank you! And I 100% agree!
Interesting design. I've used planes with Norris style adjusters, not crazy about that. And I prefer the large blade for freehand sharpening.
I will say that the Norris on this has tighter tolerances than vintage ones. Vintage ones I've tried always seemed loose or weak lol this isn't that. I get you about more iron to hold onto, I got use to the smaller iron after some practice
I appreciated the tip on the mouth for the standard!
Glad it was helpful!
Veritas also has shooting grip for the side holes.
YES thank you!!!!
I watch a Canadian maker who I really respect, who said once that he didn't like Veritas, but didn't say why. I think
my next Plane will be a Veritas No. 7. I also think that if you tell someone you don't like something, you'd better say why!
I agree! I'm surprised he didn't say why :( was he sponsored by a specific brand?
@@BatCaveCreations At the time of his comment, I don't think so, even though he uses a fair bit of Woodriver product. You can likely guess who I've been talking about, given all I've said.
Ah.... he had a huge run in with veritas that's why he doesn't like them. Shame too cus they are both Canadian, you think he would back a Canadian company but noooope. He went with China and $$ :(
Hope one day you DO get sponsored by Veritas!! I love that company for so many reasons. Fantastic customer service representatives too
Thank you!!!! And yes!! They have amazing customer service!!!
Im thinking about getting one of the custom veritas 5 1/2 jack planes but im kinda worried that the shorter blade wont be long enough to to fit my honing guide. Do you know if they're long enough to fit a traditional honing guide(not the veritas honing guide)?
That is a great question! The iron are shorter but they still fit into honing guides with no issues. I've tried a few different kinds of guides with them and everything worked fine
I enjoy your enthusiasm!
Thank you!! The ADHD helps :) lol
I love the look of the custom if I ever have a shed load of cash I would like a set of these
Thank you for such an informative and helpful review! I’d really like to get the 4-1/2 custom but have to keep saving my pennies and nickels.
SAME! That and I want a no 7 but that is a long shot for me cus I rarely use a 7 so it would be like.... a luxury tool I dont "need" but WANT. :D
Custom 4-1/2 owner here. DO. IT. NOOOOWWWWW.
Anyone know what size screws are needed for the custom blade and chip breaker…..I broke the one that keeps the circular piece in the blade.
I don't know but if you contact lee valley customer service they can send you another one!
I have a Stanley low bob 4 and 4 1/2. From my dad, from his dad. Never had any using problems. I bought a Veritas 4 on a cash windfall whim, but resold it before using it! Main reason was the rear handle. But, good luck to you multi millionaire working woodworkers who can afford them.
When you order the custom it can be changed to the style you want. Trust me I wish I was a multimillionaire. I bought this plane used for the price of a 604 basically.
99% of woodworking is preference, the stanley is yours and that is 100% allowed :)
@@BatCaveCreations Okay. Enjoyed you videos. Cut your joints as tight to your marks/pencil setting out to save on incidental tools. For example, no need for shoulder planes! But, you might know that already. Take care.
@@johnpayne6196 100% agree!! In reality you can use like 1 plane, 2 chisels, and a saw and build stuff. deff don't need a lot of tools to enjoy the craft and build stuff!
@@BatCaveCreations Okay. Keep in touch, you might not need to, if you get woodwork related problems. I am in England. Take care.
Thank you! You too!
If you could pick one custom plane from veritas, I’m thinking the difference between a smoother jack jointer. Which custom plane would you get? honestly, I’m kind of torn between a four and a five so maybe a 4.5?
The 4.5 isn't long enough for flattening tasks. If I could only pick 1 plane, like only plane I was ever allowed to use it would be a 5. It is the Jack of all trades cus it can flatten and smooth. It doesn't like "excell" at either but it is the happy medium between like a 4 and a 7.
I love the custom line to bits but I wish they had "standard" style chipbreaker screw. Not because of stripping but because I don't want an extrh tool or tiny screw to loose in a pile of wood shavings. To be honest I've thought about turning a dedicated handle to epoxy an allen head bit into so it's easier to keep track of. No idea how to never drop (or easily find when I DO drop) the screw though.
That is a great idea!!!! Make a handle and then on the top of the handle put a magnet and an indent for the screw to hang out in while ur sharpening!
@@BatCaveCreations Dro I think you just solved my problem! Tiny mechanics magbowl right on my driver. I actually have a few of those 3/16" magnets kicking around 🤔
@dylanneely91 YES!!!! We helped eachother cus I never thought about adding a handle to the Allen key!
Yup. Absolutely bang on! Been watching a lot of your videos. great stuff. Why would I buy a Lie Nielsen when I can spend 1/2 the price and get the genuine article? When tuned correctly, there is absolutely no advantage that a LN has over a vintage bedrock. I like Veritas for exactly the same reason, comfort. Also, I've never met a LN that I can use for extensive amounts of time.
One thing to note is that even though the customs have basically the same length, they actually have less reference for large surface smoothing (could be preferred in some cases). They have slightly shorter peripheral reference on either side of the blade, making them follow the flat a bit more if the surface is wider than the plane itself. Is there a practical difference? probably if one is anal retentive, but very little and only if you take multiple strokes in same direction to compound the errors each time.
Thank you and I agree!!
I love what you added at the end. That is something I never really thought about but it is something I'll pay attention to now. I'll have to check it on the 5 too, I use thay to flatten then reach for the 4 for final passes hopefully any errors are gone by then lol
LN are the super models on the cat walk...... Veritas are the geter done girls with sweat & performance......
Hahha this is halarious!
We need all their planes to be available in custom ......! My next purchase is a shooting plane.....but I want it in a custom.....!!!
Haha that would be awesome!!!
Bit late to comments but the Veritas bevel up jack plane does a great job on my shooting board,
This is very true!
Another great review Jamie. 👍👍👍
Veritas has clearly done some innovative thinking about how these tools are actually used and maintained. Interesting to note the similarities and evolution from some hundred-years-gone-by experiments in terms of functional development that never really caught on, from both Stanley and Sargent. We all know about learning lessons from history to avoid repeating mistakes. Veritas is looking in the right places but they haven't quite solved the quick-and-easy sharpening problem in a completely satisfying way - if that was their goal.
The shark-fin shape of the Veritas Custom distinctly echos the old Stanley/Gage (Self Setting G3, G4, etc.) planes from the 1920's and 30's, while the Veritas Standard shape reminds us of the slightly earlier Sargent Auto-Set design (VBM 708, 710, etc.). Both of these long-gone planes had a combined chip-breaker/lever-cap device (not really a lever cap, as they were secured, like the Veritas, with a knurled thumb screw), that allowed the iron to be quickly removed for sharpening and re-installed without losing the plane's settings. Only Sargent's system avoided the pesky extra chunk of steel screwed to the iron.
One little gripe I'd offer about the Veritas Custom is the fussy and imminently misplace-able Allen wrench needed to remove the chip-breaker - LV might wanna consider an on-board clip or slot right on the plane to keep it close at hand. And that strippable little screw is gonna be a problem in the long term for sure. Just think about all the chipped lever-caps on old Baileys, mutilated by busy or distracted woodworkers, who didn't take the time to grab an appropriate screwdriver to detach the chip-breaker. Obviously there's still room for some further improvement to get to a truly simple one-step system for iron removal and sharpening. Maybe Veritas could get Jony Ive, of Apple fame, on board, to really think outside the box on plane design. 🤔🤔🤔
Another gripe: Like a lot of folks that make stuff, I'm a sucker for functional tools that are durable and look good. I wish Veritas would quit sticking such fugly slab-sided totes on their otherwise beautiful and functional tools. 😄😄😄 Maybe I'm lucky to have a hand that fits a classic Bailey one-size-fits-all rosewood tote. Wrapping my hand around that perfectly shaped beauty is one of the great tactile pleasures of woodworking. I've never felt the need for different shaped totes on my planes (although to be completely honest, I kinda prefer a low knob). Every bench plane in my arsenal has essentially the same tote although the planes are all different shapes and sizes. Veritas has, in my opinion, solved a problem that didn't, or barely, existed, with an unnecessary complication. I'm okay with complexity, if it works well and simplifies the user experience - the Auto-Set has a fascinating complexity. As Robert Venturi famously said: I like complexity and contradiction. But I'm not okay with uncalled-for complicatedness.
Nonetheless, extremely cool to see Veritas mining the dustbin of history. Carpentry - the second oldest profession. Makes one wonder which ideas will come back around in another hundred years - assuming we haven't killed off all the trees by then, and someone can put their 3D printer aside long enough to manually shape a chunk of good-old-fashioned genuine tree carbon.
sorry for the delay! I really wanted to read and dive into this comment when i had time :D
you are correct about the shark fin! That didnt dawn on me till i read it here lol
I would love on-board storage for that allen key! that would be amazing cus ur right we would have to look for it and find a place to store it. but if it was on board, no issue, no lost item, and time saver!
I love your addition about the tote, that is a tough one tho, cus some ppl love the big tote and others dont. the other thing to think about is that we can get smaller totes for kiddos and get them in the shop more.
3D printed trees! hahahah i love it!!!
Thank you as always for your comment! hearing your ideas and opinions is always a joy and always well said!!! Hope you are well and still building beautiful boats and homes!
One thing you did not mention it looks like with the newer style Norris adjuster being a lot lower down and no where as far back if you have the tension set in the cap in the sweat spot you should be able to adjust the depth on the fly with just your index finger basicaly giving it the same advantage that the Baily style adjester has.
I would love to say this was the case. I believe that was the intention in the design but I haven't been able to find the sweet spot to advance with 1 finger and not move the lateral. I will mention I haven't like dedicated my focus on this a lot so it may be possible I just haven't experienced it so far :/
With this design tho, I am able to rest my hand ok the tote and adjust with my thumb and indext while moving the plane till it starts cutting then no further advancement is needed
Well…. If this review were any more thorough, I would have thought that you secretly owned a large stock holding with Veritas! You do a better review than Veritas does Jamie and it’s a hoot seeing you hyperventilate and salivate 😂😂
Hahaha thank you! Tell Veritas that! I would proudly rep their brand! and yes..... i had to try and maintain my ADHD excitement over this one hahahah
Hi, do you have to order the full custom and then buy the knob, frog angle, slow norris, etc you want the replace the ones Veritas sells as default??? I was expecting an option list to choose the parts you want, but Lee Valley site just sells a "Standard Custom" version (so it's not custom options, am I missing something??).
Hey! I thought the same thing but you can order custom you have to give then a call. It's easy to do so don't stress on that. They ask what you want, you specify and boom ordered :D
@@BatCaveCreations Great! thanks for the reply
@@OrangeGeemer anytime!
So wonderful! I can't afford one😥
Keep an eye out for the seconds sale!
@Bat Cave Creations the seconds sale is where I got my dovetail saw. Unfortunately postage to Australia and the exchange rate ate up the savings😢
dang! i didnt think about that :( that stinks!
The Veritas custom is very attractive. Shame there's no gap in my plane chest.
Sorry for the comment on an older video but I have a question for you regarding the Veritas adjustment. The lateral adjustment seems like it would be easy to knock out of place when making depth of cut adjustments or if you hold the plane in awkward angle. Do you have any comments regarding the lateral adjustment?
I love this! Great question! The lateral adjust doesn't get altered when making depth adjustments. Idk how it works but the lateral is held strong in place when the cap is tightened down. Sometimes I still use a hammer to tap tap the lateral. So when you adjust depth it doesn't more. That was a concern I had as well. I should have pointed that out. Thank you!
Good video. Thanks for sharing your insights.
I remember when Lee Valley came out with these custom planes. They had a whole section of their website dedicated to customizing the plane. You'd pick the body, knobs, totes, frogs, etc... Now all I see is buy the base model and if you want a different frog, tote, knob, etc... you have to buy them separately. I haven't been able to find that section recently. Maybe I'm just missing something?
You would call them to order the diff parts :)
I thought the same thing so I asked them and all you do is call, tell them the no you want, they will ask about the frog, tote and knob you want and BOOM ordered :D
How long did it take for you to get your plane after you ordered? I have heard some say they haven't received theirs after almost a year
@@BatCaveCreations
@SaintFredrocks I bought this one used :( my custom 5 was in stock when I ordered it. I am still waiting on a course toothed iron I ordered on November I think :(
I guess I'll get the LN 5-1/2. If one of the customs becomes available I guess I could compare the two and keep the one I like better. That is the nice thing about quality tools and guitar effects pedals too: they retain their value pretty well@@BatCaveCreations
@SaintFredrocks ya the availability of things is getting tough and it's sad but you are right they do retain their value well!!
The cap finish is nickel...
1. You probably mentioned this in the video but can you put a fence on the costom?
2. The old style is UGLY! Lol
Yes you can! They sell one that screws into the sides and slides, like the fence on the jack rabbet plane
And I have to agree with you haha I love the new one tho reminds me of a shark fin or.... batman! Hahahaa
Regarding squaring the frog, you're doing it right: ruclips.net/video/GyPK1IppxqU/видео.html
Lmao I too wondered if one could put a blade on that huge frog and have a chisel plane.
I wish I would have tried it before sending it back! hahahah
Hi, do you feel the push is harder with the 55 degree frog?? Could a woman use it?
Hey! Only slightly! I expected alot more resistance but it wasn't bad at all. It was A LOT easier than trying to push a BU plane with a 38* iron. (About the same cut angle)
This tracks with what Terry Gordon (HnT Gordon) explains about wear bevel of BU vs BD, of how BU would very quickly become harder to push
Oh 100%! The BU with a 50 degree iron is crazy tough to push! That's why I got a scraper plane haha
How come there is more metal in the standard one but the custom one cost much more? Hahaha.. i understand the R&d price... but does custom one do really more unless you add different frogs?
the main idea behind it is that it can do different angles with different frogs. Plus you can screw in a fence to the sides. Pick your tote and knob. Ect. It would be the last smoother you need because it has all those options. The cost is also reflective in the better machining applied to is over the standard line of their plane. It is way more in tune than the standard imo.
@@BatCaveCreations thank you. You know your stuff. Wished Veritas had lower the price (and I would have bought at least 3 custom planes with different frogs and accessories).At this price range, it is less accessible to th common person. I feel that you have to win lottery (or a RUclipsr) to be a hobbiest hand tool wood worker. Professionals buy festools (and it gets on my nerves that they robe our nose in it on RUclips) Sometimes I feel that these hand tools companies want you to buy electrical tools. RIYOBI ones or worse Black and Deckers...
@amohtash I am sorry you feel that way, just know that basically all of my tools were bought used and over years. I put in alot of work (tool flipping, RUclips, and my full time job) to save up and get to the tools I have now. I know there are some RUclipsrs out there with high income from videos, sponsors, ect. I am not one of them. I put way more (time and money) into make the videos then I get out of them. I make videos to help others and because I enjoy it. The little bit I get from RUclips has helped upgrade video equipment and such to keep making videos. And in some months helped me pay my bills.
I say all of this only because I want you to know what you see on my channel didn't happen over night and it took alot of work and savings (I also borrow alot of tools from people to make videos). You can get there too it just takes time. My first plane was a Kobalt from Lowes and my first chisels were Project Source from Lowes that was in 2018 just to Give you an example of how long all of this took me lol
@BatCaveCreations hello again, thank you for your fast replies. My main point was about the manufacturers and when talking about youtubers, I did not mean you but some youtubers who get products and other goods or 10% or 15% on sales by manufacturers. When it all started, wood workers were able to learn new skills and methods or build new jigs by sharing their ideas on RUclips. Today, most youtubers are selling the manufacturer jigs and tools. That is not your case. I've watched a lot of your videos as you explain the difference between different types of tools, etc. You are not like someone we all know who under the cover of teaching, is selling Woodriver or other tools... or those guys who "binge" review tools from China or a particular brand. I met with a high executive from a big brand and he said they are spending much less in ads and promotions of their tools as they have these youtubers who do their promotions for nothing.
Since then, as soon as I hear a youtuber saying I've been given the tool but not paid. I just remember what that guy told me. Then there are youtubers like you who are honest and are not trying to place products. Thank you for being true.
@amohtash ah I see what you are saying and 100% agree sorry I kinda went on a rant haha
You are right tho there are alot of youtubers I won't watch because I feel like it is all about then promoting products that make them money. Not just because they like the tools and think they are good. I mean even Cosman has to Cosminize the products he promotes but I won't go on another rant about that hahhahha
A heavier plane is easier to push through the cut -heavier is usually better up to a point you need to be opened minded in some of your opinions a control your biases. Veritas does make a excellent hand plane to be sure but so do many other manufacturers.
Its too bad they used thumb screws. The baily style adjustment wheel is better in every way.
Do you mean the Norris lateral and depth?
It's 100% preference. The Norris took a but to learn but I prefer it over baily
@@BatCaveCreations Yes, don't get me wrong the plane is awesome, but you can't adjust the iron depth on the fly while plaining. You have to stop and move your hands off of the tote or knob.
@@dan__________________ ah I get you, I do have to take my hand off the tote but I rest it on top of the tote hahah deff different than the norm! but so am I! ahahaha
I just can't get past the norris adjustment, so akward. While innovative, I gotta question why change what has worked for decades? I must give Veritas the value for $$$ though, but not as much of a Veritas fan boy as you. Glad to see the channel grow
I didn't like the norris at all on the old style. but I really like it on this one, mainly because it is lower? i think? lol
I know the old design that has worked for decades but it can be better imo. Do we really wanna stop there and just say well it works so lets keep doing that? you know? If car companies did that we would still be driving model-Ts haha
The changes are an improvement imo, it is smother and easier to use, no chatter or backlash. The bailey design does get chatter and backlash, also the adjustable mouth on these makes frog adjustment unnecessary. Set screws help too.
I am deff a fan boy now, cant help it. I love what they are doing for the woodworking community and that they continue to look for was to make the tool easier and more effective.
I know I kinda ranted lol Always remember 99% of woodworking is preference and a lot of tools are buy and try. ill never knock anyone if they don't like Veritas :)
Also, thank you! the channel is growing a lot faster than I would have ever anticipated!
I like the fact that someone is trying to innovate. It won’t always work and sometimes it’ll come down to user preference but eventually they’ll hit on something big!
Bit silly defending the tiny frog and backiron.
If you know the intended purpose you know the effectiveness of a heavy frog/backiron.
100% you WILL get more chatter with that veritas over a heavier Bailey type plane.
Go plane a piece of brown oak and tell me there isn't a difference.
I have. This thing doesn't chatter. The Bailey did/does.
If you could pick one custom plane from veritas, I’m thinking the difference between a smoother jack jointer. Which custom plane would you get? honestly, I’m kind of torn between a four and a five so maybe a 4.5?
I responded but I guess it didn't post lol
The 4.5 is too small to do most flattening tasks. The no 5 is the sweet spot between a 4 (smoother) and 7 (flattener). Imo the 5 does not excell at either BUT if I could only pick one plane and it's the only plane I could ever use it would be a 5.
Hope that helps!!!