Overview
The No. 6 fore plane is 18 inches long with a 2⅜-inch iron. Stanley called it simply a short jointer. It bridges the gap between the jack and the longer jointers.
Gallery
Click any photo to view it larger. Photographs courtesy of Jim Bode Tools.
Specifications & Variants
The #6 base size and its factory variants, with the sole length, cutter width, weight, and years of production for each.
The standard cast-iron version that the variants below are based on.
Corrugated sole version of the fore plane.
Uncommon, with a small premium over the smooth No. 6.
Aluminum fore plane. It ran a few years longer than the smaller aluminum planes, which suggests it was received slightly better.
A scarce collector variant rather than a working plane.
Dimensions are nominal factory figures; casting tolerances vary slightly across types.
Identifying Features
- Length: The 18-inch sole sits between the jack and the jointers.
- Iron width: The 2⅜-inch iron matches the No. 7 jointer.
Dating is shared across all sizes. Use the identification guide and the quick-reference table to pin down your plane's type.
History & Design
History
Made from 1869 to 1970. Less common than the No. 5 or No. 7, it found use as a lightweight jointer and for flattening glued-up panels.
Design
At 18 inches it is long enough to true medium-length edges and faces, but lighter and easier to handle than a full jointer. The 2⅜-inch iron matches the No. 7.
For Collectors
Moderately common and reasonably priced. The aluminum No. A6 ran longer than the smaller aluminum planes, hinting at slightly better acceptance.
Market Value
Based on 35 realized sales of the #6 (plus corrugated examples). Prices range from $85 to $275, with a median of $125.
| Condition / grade | Typical range |
|---|---|
| User grade | $85 – $115 |
| Good / Fine | $115 – $155 |
| Fine & better | $155 – $275 |
Moderately common and reasonably priced compared with the more popular jack and jointer.
These are past sale prices gathered from Jim Bode Tools, not a current appraisal. What any given plane is worth depends mostly on its condition and type.
Sources & Credits
Patrick's Blood & Gore
Primary reference for plane history, dimensions, and collector notes.
supertool.com/StanleyBG