A Craftsman's Tool for Curved Surfaces

Besides being a full-time professional furniture maker, I am also an amateur tool historian. My passion for collecting old tools goes hand in hand with my work, as I often incorporate them into my projects. I like to refer to my workshop as a "working museum." Years ago, when I first learned about the Stanley #113 compass hand plane, I knew I had to add it to my collection.

Unique Functionality

Typical hand planes are designed for flat surfaces, aiming to make the wood both flat and smooth. In contrast, the Stanley #113 is specifically crafted for working on curves, making it ideal for concave and convex surfaces. While it may not be a tool I use daily, it proves invaluable for shaping round objects or pieces with gradual sweeps and arches.

Historical Background

The history of the Stanley #113 is quite fascinating. Its production dates back to the late 1800s, with initial models appearing around 1877, 1879, and 1884, and final production ceasing between 1934 and 1942. Although it is difficult to pinpoint a single inventor, Leonard Bailey filed a patent for the #13 compass plane in 1862, which served as a precursor to the #113. While the #13 was more rudimentary, Bailey is still credited with its invention.

The #113 stands out due to its flexible sole, which can be adjusted to create both concave and convex shapes. The adjustment is made using a front knob that, when turned, alters the curvature of the plane's ends. This feature allows for precise shaping and profiling.

Comparison with Other Tools

While drawknives and spokeshaves have been used for shaping wood long before the #113, the compass plane offers greater precision. The smaller flat bottom of a spokeshave tends to ride over bumps and valleys, whereas the larger sole of the #113 effectively smooths out imperfections, resulting in a perfect arch.

Learning Curve

Despite its advantages, using the #113 requires an understanding of the material being worked on. It is not designed for removing large amounts of wood; instead, it excels in making finish passes. Attention to wood grain direction is crucial, as the grain can change at the bottom of a concave curve or the top of a convex arch, potentially leading to tear-out. Therefore, slow passes and careful observation of the grain are recommended.

Holding the plane also requires some adjustment. Unlike standard hand planes, where the front knob is firmly gripped, the #113's front knob serves as both a grip and an adjustment mechanism. Gripping it too tightly can distort the profile being shaped. Additionally, the rear handle may feel awkward and less comfortable. However, given that this plane is not typically used for extended periods, I find it manageable.

Conclusion

Overall, I am pleased to own the Stanley #113 compass plane. It proves useful for creating specialty-shaped pieces in my furniture designs, and I am continually impressed by its engineering. The intricate gears, knobs, and the ability to adjust its shape are remarkable. If you are considering making chairs or similar projects, I highly recommend adding this plane to your collection. For enthusiasts like me, it is also a beautiful example of mechanical craftsmanship.