Tuning Japanese Planes - Part 5 of 5 - Fitting the Chipbreaker

The last part (for the moment) in our Japanese plane tuning series! In this video, we get back on the sharpening equipment to tune and fit the chipbreaker.

Lap the Back

Japanese Plane Tuning - Part 5 of 5 - Seating the Chipbreaker

Yep, this again. Just as our plane blade needed a nicely lapped and finish back, so does our chipbreaker. Grab a tea or coffee and get back on that kanaban.

Tune the Ears

Japanese Plane Tuning - Part 5 of 5 - Seating the Chipbreaker

One ear at the rear of the chipbreaker probably contacts the main blade before the second one does. bring this pair into line with a gentle filing.

Head to the Bar

Japanese Plane Tuning - Part 5 of 5 - Seating the Chipbreaker

The chipbreaker bar can either be exerting a little pressure on the chipbreaker, allowing it to drop a long way, or a lot of pressure, preventing it form dropping it all.

If you encounter the latter you can choose to keep filing the ears down or modify the underside of the bar that contacts the chipbreaker. We generally feel more comfortable working on the bar. 

Take care during this process to keep your file away from the mouth of the plane.