Record T5 Technical Jack Plane. Truth behind the hype.

The Record T5 Technical Jack Plane was made with education settings in mind. Honestly, I think it was marketing BS and schools would of done well to save the money and buy a regular No.5

The casting has ribs and side wings with the aim of increasing both strength and stability. I find it hard to believe there is much more strength although I don't fancy putting it to the test. I personally found no stability advantage.

It has a screw in handle that can be secured on either side of the plane. The aim of the handle is to improve control and comfort while at the shooting board. Frankly it's unhelpful and I can imagine in a school, prone to getting lost

Extended wings give a wide and steady bearing thus minimising the tendency of a young operator to c

First introduced in 1939 and production ceased in 1977. Unless you want to complete a collection of Record planes, keep on walking and save your money. If you spot one with a 2 1/4" iron, grab it if it's cheap. It's a rare early one as most have 2" irons.