Yes Karl Holtey has released a new plane and it's a cracker! Let's get the price out of the way first, it's £5,160 + vat. A friend of mine owns this one and I was privileged to be allowed to have a go with it.
The 983 has been engineered to unbelievable standards and the finish is immaculate. It combines brushed and polished stainless steel with a very comfortable knob. This one is in a whacky acrylic but it is also available in wood for the less brave.
The blade is 1 1/2" wide and the plane is very heavy and a treat to use. It planed this masser birch effortlessly with not a hint of tear out.
The plane disassembled showing the Norris style adjuster and the lever cap milled from a solid lump of stainless steel.
My friend has a few Holtey planes including this 98 panel which was made in very small numbers. The panel version of the No 98 smoother is a more versatile plane and one I would love to own.
An even more impressive plane is this 22" jointer, there's not much this can't take on, assuming you've got the strength to get it going!
The rosewood handles are a joy to behold!
If you want to see more of Karls work please
I keep getting told there is no money in furniture making!
ReplyDeleteI doubt any of these planes will be bought by professionals. In fact I doubt many will even be used!
DeleteJust noticed, twin rows of dog holes in the bench, interesting.
ReplyDeleteI think this was a home made bench, I'll have to have a closer look next time I visit.
DeleteI was looking at this plane on Karl's site earlier today, his work is absolutely amazing. The price takes my breath away, but "perfect" costs. I've machined stainless before, and it's not an easy go, to get all of the surfaces as clean and crisp is a real testament to Karl's skills.
ReplyDeleteI don't don't think plane making has made Karl a rich man, he's just a perfectionist and they take a long time to make. He's been on this plane for a few months and has only produced six.
Deletenice work,Top quality furniture company
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