Stanley #71 plane router

[TARL01]

Does anybody use one of these for barrel channels? I thought maybe this would be a good compromise between an electrical router and using chisels. Right now I prefer chisels, but if this is a "safe" method, meaning you can control the cut, and saves effort, then maybe it is worth-while. There is also the smaller #271, so same question about that.
Woody

 

[ebiggs1]

Do they still make thoes things? My grandpa had quite a collection, don't know what happened to them.

 

[Bob Riegl]

Try Veritas--- Link ]

 

[schloss]

Veritas makes a really nice plow plane, and you can still find old Stanleys floating around, and wooden versions, too. Try to find a video on using the plow plane.

If you use it to cut a barrel channel, it may not work perfectly. You have to start the cut near the muzzle end, working toward the muzzle. After each cut you can back up towards the breech a little more. I'm sure it will speed things up once you figure out how to use it, but you'll end up with an angled barrel channel unless you relieve an area toward the breech so the plane can drop in level. Still, might be more fun than just using chisels.

I've been wanting one of the plow planes from veritas for a while now. Let us know how it works.

 

[ZUG]

I have the #271 and I use it for the smoothing out of the bottom of the lock - works well if you don't take too much of a "bite" AND keep the bit SHARP! As for the big one for barrels I would not spend the money. I started with a hammer & chisel - then went to using a 1-1/2 hp router - used a table saw - used a hand back saw with steel rail guides - now I use a combination of table saw, chisle, and scrapers. Go visit americanlongrifles.org and look for Okieboy's post - REAL good info - enough said!

 

[TARL01]

Thanks! I saw a 271 on e-bay I think and there were 20 or so 71's there as well. I'll see about getting the 271 and I'll let you know how it works (or doesn't work).
Woody

 

[ZUG]

You GOT to sharpen that little blade real good! If not it just grabs and tares the wood and also most importantly only advance the blade a few thousands each time for the new cut -- it does do a nice job when all is adjusted right :thumbsup: ! Good luck