Rabbet Planes
The rabbet plane, known as a rebate plane in British English, is designed to cut precise recesses along the edges or ends of workpieces. Its blade extends slightly beyond the body, allowing for clean, square cuts into corners.
Rabbet Planes - Fast Facts
- Purpose: Cutting rabbets (rebates) along edges and ends
- Key Feature: Blade extends slightly beyond the body for clean corner cuts
- Common Variants: Bench rabbet, bullnose, fillister, shoulder, side rabbet
- Terminology: 'Rabbet' (US), 'Rebate' (UK)
Explore our Rabbet Planes
Discover our selection of classic and versatile rabbet planes
Rabbet Plane
No. 45
Rabbet Plane
Rabbet Plane
Historically, rabbet planes have been essential in woodworking for creating joints and recesses. They come in various forms, including bench rabbet planes, bullnose planes, and fillister planes, each suited for specific tasks. The design ensures that the plane does not bind on the side of the cut, maintaining a perpendicular side wall.
"The rebate plane is one of a group of planes... in which the blade protrudes by a very small amount... from the sides of the plane body on both sides."
Historical Highlights
11th Century – Early use of rebate planes in England
19th Century – Evolution into various specialized forms
Today – Continued use in fine woodworking and joinery
Despite modern power tools, rabbet planes remain favored for their precision and control. Their ability to create clean, accurate joints makes them indispensable in hand-tool woodworking.