What Is the Difference Between a Stanley Model 45 Plane & a Stanley Model 55 Plane?

The Stanley Model 45 plane and the Stanley Model 55 plane were woodworking tools manufactured from the end of the 19th. century until production ceased in 1962. Although collectors items, many are still in use.

History

The Stanley 45 Combination Plane, known as Traut's Patent Adjustable Beading Rabbet & Slitting Plane, appeared in 1883 and by 1922 there were 20 versions of it. The 45 was the forerunner of the Stanley 55 Universal Combination Plane that appeared in 1892.

Features

The 45 originally came with a box containing 18 cutters. This was increased to two boxes containing 23 cutters. The 55 was originally supplied with 52 cutters, this being increased to 55 cutters in four boxes. The 55 was supplied in a chestnut box. The 45 had two skates that slid along the wood, while the 55 has three skates although it could be used with two or one. The 55 also had a fine adjustment control.

Uses

While the 45 is only capable of symmetrical cuts along wood, the third skate allows the 55 to perform asymmetrical cuts. But is the harder of the two to use. The extra cutters mean that the 55 offers a greater variety of moulding opportunities.

References

• Antique Tools: The Stanley 55: The Universal Plane
• Old Tool User: Stanley No.45 Combination Plane

Resources

• Rosewood and Brass Antique Tools: Tips, Tricks and Other Good Stuff