Conclusion of making the A13 dovetailed infill planes
For a long time I have procrastinated in writing a blog, and in that time I have kept a library of pictures of plane making throughout my range hoping to document it over time.
With the A13 I have tried to give some idea of the sheer effort that goes into the making. Although I have missed out much of the story, I hope it is enough to provide an overall picture. I have shown the mixture of hand and machine work that is necessary to achieve something of this quality. Also, I hope that I have shown that the machine work is not an economy but a necessity.
I decided to make the A13 because I could see potential in this design and its very appealing aesthetics, and it has turned out to be my best seller. From the blog you will see that a lot of detail has been upgraded. Some of the enhanced contours have been copied by others and referred to as an A13 when in actual fact it is a Holtey designed A13 and not a Norris. The original Norris A13 was cast iron which supported a square bun. However the introduction of dovetailing (mainly brass on steel) and riveting through metal spacers are all my ideas.
With the completion of these few planes, I feel that I want to move on and look for a replacement for this infill design.
Karl,
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed reading your blog and look forward with great interest to see any new infill designs you come up with in the future. As much as I appreciate the traditional look of infills I believe they are long over due for some modern aesthetics
Many thanks,
Liam
Comment by Liam — August 17, 2009 @ 12:47 pm
Mr. Holtey, thank you. I appreciate any opportunity to observe a master at his craft in any way. The story of these planes so far has been very enjoyable.
chuckbeck
Comment by Chuck Beck — August 18, 2009 @ 3:41 am
Hi Chuck
Thank you very much for your kind words. Even though the A13 is finished there are lots of other projects to put here.
k
Comment by admin — August 18, 2009 @ 10:11 am
Hi Liam
Much as I like making my own designs, I have to keep both camps happy and so many of my customers like the traditional planes.
k
Comment by admin — August 18, 2009 @ 10:13 am
I too enjoy your blog. Thanks for taking the time to write it. I was wondering are you planing in the future to share your finishing technics for your beautiful planes? I for one sure hope so. Thanks again for sharing thus far. It is a pleasure to read. John
Comment by John Borgwardt — August 23, 2009 @ 6:53 pm
Hi John
I will try and highlight the finishing processes as they come up, hope I have taken enough photos – I have just started a blog on the No 982.
k
Comment by admin — August 23, 2009 @ 10:01 pm
Great site…keep up the good work.
Comment by Bill Bartmann — September 2, 2009 @ 7:21 am
Hi Bill
Thank you for your nice comments.
k
Comment by admin — September 2, 2009 @ 8:21 am
Excellent site, keep up the good work
Comment by Bill Bartmann Scam — September 6, 2009 @ 10:39 pm
It has been great to follow the fabrication from cradle to grave.
Comment by Torch02 — September 7, 2009 @ 5:29 pm
Hi Bill
thanks for your comments
k
Comment by admin — September 8, 2009 @ 9:19 am
Hi
Not ready for the grave yet!
k
Comment by admin — September 8, 2009 @ 9:25 am