On Feb 12, 3:40 pm, Andrew Hartung wrote:
Could I get the group's opinion on Groz Planes? Or for that matter any
of the other (new) lower cost planes, like Bailey, Grizzly. I'm in need of
a #4 smooth and a #7-8 jointing plane and maybe a rabbet/bullnose. The
Groz planes are on sale at Woodcraft.

I think most of the group's opinion will be that you'll be better off
at this price point with a used (Pre-WWII) Stanley. These can be had
for less than $50 - you can either take your chances on eBay, and
probably get a good deal if you're careful, look around at local
antique shops or auctions, or you can contact a real used tool dealer
and pay a little more, but be more confident that you're getting a
good tool.
I think that whether you go with an old Stanley or a new cheapie,
you should plan on spending several hours tuning the plane before
seriously using it, and you'll get improved performance with a good
aftermarket blade (i.e. Lee Valley/Veritas, Lie Nielsen, Ron Hock).
This might cost as much as the plane, but it'll probably be worth it.
(Note - my experiences in this area are based primarily on a 75-yr old
Stanley #4 that I tuned up with a new Veritas blade, a 30+ year old
Craftsman block plane that's a pain, and a new plane or 2 each from
LN, LV, and Steve Knight. I haven't used any the newer cheaper
planes) So I can't comment directly on the Groz/New-Stan/Griz, but if
there's any way you can afford a real LV, LN, or Knight, know that it
will certainly be a thing of beauty that works wonderfully right out
of the box.
Finally, remember that you need to obtain some sharpening system: be
it waterstones, scary sharp (TM), etc., and probably a honing guide,
and costs can add up for these things also.
Good luck,
Andy