Mastering the Art of Rabbet Planes: A Comprehensive Guide

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Rabbit Planes
2. What is a Rabbit?
3. Different Types of Rabbit Planes
   • Square Crossed Rabbit Plane
   • Skewed Rabbit Plane
   • Rabbit Plane with a Nikkor
   • Metal Rabbit Planes
4. What to Look for in a Rabbit Plane
   • Checking for Straightness
   • Appropriate Iron for the Plane
   • Width of the Iron
   • Checking the Cheeks and Weld Marks
5. Sharpening a Rabbit Plane
6. Using Rabbit Planes
   • Starting the Rabbit
   • Cleaning the Rabbit
   • Cross-Grain Cuts
7. Pros and Cons of Rabbit Planes
8. Conclusion

Introduction to Rabbit Planes

Rabbit planes are an essential tool in woodworking, particularly in constructing joints. They are commonly used to create a groove along the edge of a board, either along the grain or across it. This type of joint is called a "rabbit" and is widely used in furniture construction. Rabbit planes are available in various sizes and designs, each serving different purposes. In this article, we will explore the different types of rabbit planes, how to choose the right one, and how to use them effectively.

What is a Rabbit?

A rabbit, in woodworking terms, refers to a groove set in from the edge of a board. This groove can be made either along the grain or across it. It is a common and simple joint used in furniture construction to join different parts together, such as the back of cabinets, window frames, or bottom of boxes. The rabbit joint allows for a seamless connection while keeping the joint hidden from view.

Different Types of Rabbit Planes

There are several types of rabbit planes available, each designed for specific purposes. Let's take a closer look at some of the most common ones:

Square Crossed Rabbit Plane

The square crossed rabbit plane is the simplest and most basic type of rabbit plane. It has a square iron that is straight across and slightly wider than the body of the plane. This plane is used for creating square half-grooves on the edge of a board.

Skewed Rabbit Plane

A skewed rabbit plane has an angled iron that cuts at a slicing angle along the length of the groove. This results in a smoother cut and is beneficial for both along the grain and cross-grain cuts.

Rabbit Plane with a Nikkor

Some rabbit planes come with a feature called a "nikkor." The nikkor assists in cutting cross-grain by pre-cutting the wood fibers ahead of the iron. This type of plane is particularly useful when working on cross-grain cuts.

Metal Rabbit Planes

In addition to wooden rabbit planes, there are also metal rabbit planes available. Stanley, a well-known tool manufacturer, offers a range of metal rabbit planes. These planes often resemble bench planes in their design and features.

What to Look for in a Rabbit Plane

When selecting a rabbit plane, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the right tool for the job. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Checking for Straightness

Since rabbit planes have a mortise that can move separately from the body, it is essential to check for any warping or misalignment. Look down the sole of the plane to ensure that both sides are straight and aligned.

Appropriate Iron for the Plane

Make sure that the rabbit plane has the appropriate iron for its intended use. The iron should be wide enough to match the width of the plane's sole, ensuring an effective and efficient cut.

Width of the Iron

For planes with skewed irons, measuring the width accurately can be a bit trickier. The width of the iron is not straight across but at an angle. Take careful measurements to ensure that the iron aligns with the width of the sole.

Checking the Cheeks and Weld Marks

Inspect the cheeks of the plane to ensure that they are intact and free from cracks or weld marks. A cracked cheek can affect the plane's performance and stability, so it's important to choose a plane without any obvious damage.

Sharpening a Rabbit Plane

Sharpening a rabbit plane requires attention to detail to achieve the best results. The process can be a bit more challenging compared to sharpening other types of planes. Since you cannot use a square to ensure the iron is square across the plane, you need to carefully align the iron with the plane's axis. This may require some adjustment and fine-tuning. Proper sharpening is crucial for a rabbit plane to perform optimally.

Using Rabbit Planes

Now let's dive into the practical aspect of using rabbit planes. Here are the steps to follow:

Starting the Rabbit

To start a rabbit, you need to be cautious as the plane tends to slip across the gauge line. Begin with a square crossed iron plane, starting slightly inside the gauge line. Gradually work your way down to the line while keeping the plane vertical.

Cleaning the Rabbit

Once a shoulder is established, you can switch to a skewed iron plane to clean up the rabbit. The skewed iron allows for a smoother cut and cleaner shoulder. Ensure you are cutting straight down and maintaining a square position to achieve precise results.

Cross-Grain Cuts

When making cross-grain cuts, it is essential to consider the direction of the grain. Skewed iron planes are more suitable for cross-grain cuts as they provide a finer cut. Be mindful of potential tear-out and adjust your technique accordingly.

Pros and Cons of Rabbit Planes

Pros:

• Rabbit planes are among the cheapest planes available, making them an affordable tool for woodworkers.
• They are highly versatile and can be used in various woodworking projects.
• Rabbit planes allow for concealed and seamless joints, adding a professional touch to furniture construction.
• Skewed iron rabbit planes offer smoother and finer cuts, resulting in a higher quality finish.

Cons:

• Rabbit planes require regular maintenance and sharpening to perform optimally.
• Wooden rabbit planes may be more prone to wear and tear compared to their metal counterparts.

Conclusion

Rabbit planes are an indispensable tool for any woodworker. With their ability to create concealed joints and grooves, they are essential in furniture construction. Understanding the different types of rabbit planes, their features, and how to use them effectively can greatly enhance your woodworking skills. Whether you choose a square crossed plane, a skewed iron plane, or a plane with a nikkor, make sure to keep them well-maintained and sharp for the best results in your woodworking projects.