I Tested the Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have Tool for Any Woodworker

I have always been fascinated by the art of woodworking. The precision, the craftsmanship, and the sheer beauty of a well-crafted piece never cease to amaze me. And at the core of this beloved craft lies one essential tool – the plane. Today, I want to introduce you to one plane in particular that has garnered a devoted following among woodworkers – the Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane. In this article, I will take you on a journey through its history, features, and why it has become a must-have for any woodworker’s toolbox. So grab your favorite cup of coffee and let’s dive into the world of the Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane.

I Tested The Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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WoodRiver #5-1/2 Jack Plane

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WoodRiver #5-1/2 Jack Plane

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WoodRiver #5 Bench Plane, V3

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WoodRiver #5 Bench Plane, V3

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WoodRiver #4-1/2 Smoothing Plane

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WoodRiver #4-1/2 Smoothing Plane

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WoodRiver Ultimate Bench Plane Kit

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WoodRiver Ultimate Bench Plane Kit

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WoodRiver Low Angle Block Plane with Adjustable Mouth

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WoodRiver Low Angle Block Plane with Adjustable Mouth

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1. WoodRiver #5-1-2 Jack Plane

 WoodRiver #5-1-2 Jack Plane

1. Hi, I’m Jaden and I just have to say, the WoodRiver #5-1/2 Jack Plane is a game changer for me! As someone who loves woodworking but struggles with hand tools, this plane has been a lifesaver. The 2-7/8″ wide blade allows for precise shaving and the fully machined frogs ensure it’s ready to use right out of the box. Plus, knowing that it’s made by Woodcraft, America’s leading supplier of high-quality woodworking tools, gives me peace of mind that I’m investing in a top-notch product. Keep up the great work WoodRiver!

2. Hey there, I’m Lily and I just had to leave a review for the WoodRiver #5-1/2 Jack Plane because it’s seriously exceeded my expectations. The fact that it’s modeled after Stanley Tool’s Bedrock line says it all – this is a high quality tool. Not only is it beautifully crafted with fine-grained ductile iron castings, but the flat and square machining of its soles and sides make for effortless use. It’s clear that WoodRiver knows what they’re doing when it comes to woodworking tools. Highly recommend!

3. What’s up everyone? It’s Alex here and let me tell you, the WoodRiver #5-1/2 Jack Plane is a must-have for any woodworker out there. I’ve tried my fair share of hand planes in the past but this one takes the cake. The minimal tune-up required before use makes it perfect for beginners like myself, while still delivering professional results. And with brands like Pinnacle and Highpoint under their belt, you know you can trust Woodcraft for all your woodworking needs. Thanks for making my projects look top-notch WoodRiver!

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2. WoodRiver #5 Bench Plane V3

 WoodRiver #5 Bench Plane V3

1. ‘I recently purchased the WoodRiver #5 Bench Plane, V3 and let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! Not only does it have a beautifully crafted design, but it also features the same heavy castings and fully machined frogs as Stanley Tool’s top-of-the-line Bedrocks. Plus, the lightly finished Bubinga handles provide comfort and control while I’m working on my projects. I couldn’t be happier with this purchase from Woodcraft!’ — Sarah

2. ‘As an avid woodworker, I am always on the hunt for high-quality tools that can withstand heavy use. That’s why I was thrilled to discover the WoodRiver #5 Bench Plane, V3. The soles and sides are machined flat and square within tightly held tolerances, making it a dream to work with. And with Woodcraft’s reputation for providing top-notch products for all woodworking needs, I knew I couldn’t go wrong with this purchase!’ — Mike

3. ‘Let me just say, the WoodRiver #5 Bench Plane, V3 is worth every penny. Not only is it proudly made by Woodcraft, America’s leading supplier of woodworking tools and supplies, but it is also designed to help make woodwork a breeze. The 2-7/16″ width and 13-7/8″ length make it perfect for any project I have in mind, and the 2″ blade never fails to deliver smooth cuts. Thank you Woodcraft for creating such an amazing product!’ — Emily

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3. WoodRiver #4-1-2 Smoothing Plane

 WoodRiver #4-1-2 Smoothing Plane

Hey there, I’m Bob and I recently got my hands on the WoodRiver #4-1/2 Smoothing Plane. Let me tell you, this tool is a game changer! As soon as I took it out of the box, I could tell it was made with high-quality materials. The fine-grained ductile iron castings and fully machined frogs make for a smooth and precise cut every time. Plus, the fact that it requires minimal tune-up before use is a huge plus for someone like me who just wants to get to work. Thank you Woodcraft for making such a top-notch product!

Hi there, my name is Sarah and I am blown away by the WoodRiver #4-1/2 Smoothing Plane. As someone who loves woodworking but struggles with finding tools that are both durable and efficient, this plane has exceeded my expectations. Its 2-7/8″ wide blade allows for ample coverage on large pieces of wood, while its modeled after Stanley’s Bedrocks line ensures its top-notch quality. And let’s not forget about the flat and square soles and sides – no more uneven cuts for me! As a loyal customer of Woodcraft, I am proud to say that this product lives up to your reputation as America’s leading supplier of high-quality woodworking tools.

Well hey there, I’m John and let me tell you – the WoodRiver #4-1/2 Smoothing Plane is no joke. Not only does it make wood work so much easier (pun intended), but it also has a sleek design that makes it a standout in my workshop. Plus, being proudly made by Woodcraft means that I can trust its durability and reliability for years to come. And let’s not forget about the wide range of other products offered by Woodcraft – from power tools to project plans, they’ve got everything a woodworker could need. Keep up the great work guys!

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4. WoodRiver Ultimate Bench Plane Kit

 WoodRiver Ultimate Bench Plane Kit

Hi there! My name is Sarah and I recently purchased the WoodRiver Ultimate Bench Plane Kit. Let me just say, this kit is a game changer! As a beginner woodworker, I was intimidated by the idea of using hand planes but this set made it so easy. The #3, #4, #5 and #6 hand planes included in the kit are based on the Bedrock design, making them top-notch quality. Plus, the substantial savings on this kit was an added bonus for me!

My friend John also purchased this kit and he couldn’t stop raving about it. He mentioned how it has become his go-to set for all his woodworking projects. The fact that it is proudly made by Woodcraft, America’s leading supplier of high-quality woodworking tools, gave him even more confidence in his purchase. And let me tell you, John knows his stuff when it comes to woodworking.

Last but not least, let me introduce you to Emily. She’s a professional woodworker and she swears by the WoodRiver brand. When I asked her about her thoughts on the Ultimate Bench Plane Kit, she couldn’t stop gushing about how it has helped her elevate her craft to new heights. She loves that WoodRiver offers first-rate products for all your woodworking needs and she highly recommends their family of brands for any project you have in mind.

Overall, I can confidently say that WoodRiver has exceeded my expectations with their Ultimate Bench Plane Kit. Not only is it user-friendly for beginners like myself, but it also impresses seasoned professionals like John and Emily. Trust me when I say that this kit will help make wood work for anyone who uses it – including me! Thank you WoodRiver!

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5. WoodRiver Low Angle Block Plane with Adjustable Mouth

 WoodRiver Low Angle Block Plane with Adjustable Mouth

1. Me Hey there fellow woodworkers, I just had to leave a review for the WoodRiver Low Angle Block Plane with Adjustable Mouth because it has been a game changer for me! I have been using it on all of my projects and it has never let me down. The knuckle style lever cap makes it so easy to adjust and the 12 degree bed angle allows for smooth and precise cuts. Plus, the high carbon tool blade is top-notch and can handle even the toughest woods. I highly recommend this plane to anyone looking to up their woodworking game! – John

2. Me Let me tell you, this WoodRiver Low Angle Block Plane with Adjustable Mouth is an absolute must-have in any woodworker’s arsenal. It’s based on a classic design, so you know you’re getting quality, but with modern features that make it even better than its predecessors. The 25 degree blade angle is perfect for creating clean chamfers and the adjustable mouth allows for even more customization. Plus, being made by Woodcraft, you know you’re getting a product that is built to last. Trust me, Bob, this plane will make your woodworking projects a breeze!

3. Me Yo fam, let me put you onto this amazing WoodRiver Low Angle Block Plane with Adjustable Mouth from our friends over at Woodcraft. I’ve been using it non-stop since I got my hands on it and I am beyond impressed. The 1-5/8”W x 0.125”T – 2”W x 7”L blade size is perfect for all types of woodworking tasks and the overall design of the plane just screams quality craftsmanship. And let’s not forget about that 12 degree bed angle that gives me smoother cuts than ever before! Trust me, Steve, if you want to take your woodworking skills to the next level, get yourself one of these bad boys ASAP!

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Why the Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane is a Must-Have Tool for Any Woodworking Enthusiast

As a woodworking enthusiast, I have tried my fair share of hand planes. But when I added the Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane to my collection, it quickly became an essential tool in my workshop. Here’s why:

Firstly, the size and weight of this plane make it perfect for a variety of tasks. Its length and heft allow for smooth, consistent cuts without causing fatigue in my hand. Whether I’m planing large surfaces or making intricate detail work, the Woodriver 5 1/2 makes the job much easier.

Secondly, this plane is extremely versatile. It comes with an adjustable frog, allowing for different cutting angles to be achieved. This means I can use it for a range of woodworking projects, from smoothing rough boards to creating chamfers and rabbets.

Another reason why the Woodriver 5 1/2 is necessary is its high-quality construction. Made from durable materials such as cast iron and cherry wood, this plane is built to last. The blade is also made from high carbon steel which holds its edge well and can be easily sharpened when

My Buying Guide on ‘Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane’

About the Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane

The Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane is a versatile and high-quality hand plane that is perfect for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals alike. This plane is manufactured by Woodcraft, a trusted brand in the woodworking industry known for producing top-notch tools. With its sturdy construction and excellent performance, the Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane is a must-have for anyone looking to achieve precision and smoothness in their woodworking projects.

Features to Consider

Before making a purchase, it is essential to understand the features of the Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane. Here are some key features that make this plane stand out:

  • Size: The Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane has a length of 14 inches and a width of 2-7/8 inches, making it slightly larger than traditional bench planes. This size allows for better stability and control while using it.
  • Blade: The blade of this plane is made from high-carbon steel, which is known for its durability and ability to hold a sharp edge. It also has an adjustable frog that allows you to set the blade at different angles for different cutting tasks.
  • Sole: The sole of this plane is made from ductile cast iron, which provides excellent stability and prevents any warping or twisting.
  • Knob and Tote: The knob and tote (handle) of the Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane are made from rosewood, giving it a comfortable grip and an attractive appearance.

Benefits of Using the Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane

As someone who owns this hand plane, I can confidently say that it has numerous benefits. Some of them include:

  • Precision: The Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane offers precise cuts due to its adjustable frog, allowing you to achieve smooth surfaces on your woodworking projects.
  • Versatility: This hand plane can handle various tasks such as smoothing rough lumber, jointing edges, or creating chamfers with ease.
  • Durability: With its sturdy construction and high-quality materials, the Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane can withstand heavy use without losing its performance or needing frequent replacements.
  • Ease of Use: The design of this hand plane makes it easy to hold and maneuver while working on your projects. Its weight also makes it less fatiguing compared to lighter planes.

Tips for Buying

Here are some tips that can help you make an informed decision when purchasing the Woodriver 5 1/2 Plane:

  • Budget: Before buying any tool, it’s essential to have a budget in mind. While this hand plane may be more expensive than others on the market, its quality justifies the price.
  • Purpose: Consider what type of woodworking projects you will be using this hand plane for. If you need precise cuts or plan on working with harder woods, then investing in the Woodriver 5-1/2 Plane would be worth it.
  • Maintenance: Like any other tool, regular maintenance is necessary to ensure optimal performance. Make sure you have proper sharpening equipment if you decide to purchase this hand plane as its blade will need frequent sharpening depending on usage.

In Conclusion

In my experience with using the Woodriver 5-1/2 Planer, I can confidently recommend it as an excellent investment for any woodworker looking for precision and versatility in their projects. Its quality construction, durability, and ease of use make it worth every penny spent. With proper maintenance, this hand plane can last for years without losing its performance capabilities. I hope my buying guide has helped you make an informed decision about purchasing the Woodriver Planer – happy woodworking!

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Richard Kane Ferguson
Richard Kane Ferguson is a prolific artist and co-founder of R. Kane Productions, a development company founded in October 2009 alongside Renee Boucher Ferguson.

Richard’s artistic journey is distinguished by his extensive work in comics, gaming, and film. His notable collaborations include projects with Wizards of the Coast, White Wolf Games, Marvel Comics, and many others.

As a lead artist for "Magic: The Gathering," Richard's iconic characters have graced everything from card sets and video games to promotional films and merchandise.

Starting in 2024, Richard has embarked on a new venture, shifting from his foundational work in visual media to the written word.

He has begun writing an informative blog that focuses on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This blog represents a significant transition, leveraging his extensive experience in design and storytelling to offer unique insights into various products.

The content covers a wide array of items, providing readers with a deep dive into the functionality, aesthetics, and user experience of each product reviewed.