Collecting Norris Woodworking Tools – Your Ultimate Guide

ByJim Boslice Woodworking Tool

Why collect Norris woodworking tools? Collecting Norris tools connects you to a legacy of unparalleled craftsmanship. These aren’t just display pieces; they are superior-quality, functional tools known for their dovetailed steel construction, dense wood infills, and patented depth adjusters that can elevate your woodworking.

How do you start collecting? Begin by researching key models like the A5 smoother. Learn to identify authentic “Norris London” stamps, original blades, and signs of condition. Start your search with reputable vintage tool dealers and online auctions to avoid common pitfalls.

Ever held a tool that just felt right? Not just balanced, but like it was an extension of your own hands, humming with a history of craftsmanship. For many woodworkers, that feeling comes to life the first time they pick up a vintage Norris hand plane.

You’ve probably heard the name whispered in woodworking forums or seen them fetch eye-watering prices at auctions. It’s easy to wonder what all the fuss is about. Are they really that much better than a modern premium plane? Why would anyone start collecting norris woodworking tools when there are so many options available today?

The truth is, owning a Norris is about more than just having a tool. It’s about owning a piece of woodworking history, a benchmark of quality that has rarely been surpassed. It’s about the desire to connect with a legacy of precision and to feel the satisfaction of bringing a century-old masterpiece back to life.

If you’re ready to move beyond the ordinary and learn how to find, evaluate, and care for these legendary tools, you’re in the right place. This guide will show you exactly how to begin your journey.

What Makes Norris Tools So Special?

Before you start your search, it helps to understand why Norris planes are considered the “Rolls-Royce” of the hand tool world. Founded by Thomas Norris in London around the 1860s, the company set a new standard for quality that persisted for nearly a century.

The benefits of collecting norris woodworking tools go far beyond just owning a pretty antique. These tools were built for serious work.

  • Unmatched Build Quality: Most Norris planes feature dovetailed, riveted steel construction rather than cast iron. This made them incredibly strong, resistant to cracking, and allowed for a much thinner sole that provided better feedback from the wood.
  • Luxurious Infill: The bodies were filled with dense, stable hardwoods like Brazilian Rosewood or Ebony. This “infill” added mass, which helps the plane glide through tough grain and significantly dampens vibration. The result is a smoother cut with less effort.
  • The Patented Adjuster: The famous Norris adjuster (patented in 1913) was a marvel of engineering. It allowed for simultaneous, precise control over both the depth of cut and the lateral position of the blade with a single knob. It’s remarkably simple and effective.
  • Historical Significance: Owning a Norris is holding a direct link to the golden age of hand tool manufacturing. Each plane has a story, a patina of use from workshops long since gone.

Your Guide to Collecting Norris Woodworking Tools

Starting a collection can feel daunting, but with a bit of knowledge, you can make smart choices. This collecting norris woodworking tools guide is designed to walk you through the process, from initial research to your first purchase.

Step 1: Start with Research: Know Your Models

Don’t just jump on the first plane you see. Familiarize yourself with the most common models to understand what you’re looking for.

The Norris numbering system is fairly straightforward. “A” typically stands for “Adjustable,” and the number denotes the type or size.

  • A5 Smoother: This is the quintessential Norris plane and the most common. It’s a parallel-sided smoothing plane, usually with a rosewood infill. An excellent first Norris for any collection, as it’s a fantastic user plane.
  • A1 Jointer: A massive plane for flattening and jointing long boards. These are less common and highly sought after by users and collectors alike.
  • A6 Smoother: Similar to the A5 but with “coffin” shaped sides that taper towards the front and back. Many users find them very comfortable to hold.
  • Shoulder & Chariot Planes: Norris also made exceptional smaller planes for fine-tuning joinery, like the No. 27 or No. 51. These are often harder to find in good condition.

Step 2: Where to Find Genuine Norris Planes

Knowing where to look is half the battle. Your goal is to find authentic tools from reputable sources.

  1. Specialist Vintage Tool Dealers: This is the safest route. Dealers like David Stanley Auctions, Tony Murland, or Patrick Leach (in the US) have deep expertise. They accurately describe the tool’s condition and guarantee its authenticity. You might pay a premium, but you get peace of mind.
  2. Online Auctions (eBay): You can find deals here, but it’s also where you’re most likely to encounter fakes or misrepresented tools. Always buy from sellers with a long history of positive feedback and detailed, high-quality photos.
  3. Woodworking Forums: Communities like UKworkshop or Sawmill Creek often have “For Sale” sections where members trade tools. This can be a great place to find a well-cared-for “user” plane from a fellow woodworker.
  4. Estate Sales and Antique Shops: The “diamond in the rough” scenario. It’s rare to find a Norris this way, but not impossible. You need to know exactly what you’re looking for to spot one among piles of old Stanley or Record planes.

Step 3: Key Features to Inspect Before You Buy

Whether you’re looking at a plane in person or through photos, you need a mental checklist. Here’s how to collecting norris woodworking tools the smart way by being a careful inspector.

  • The Stamp: Look for the “NORRIS LONDON” stamp on the toe of the plane. Check the font and spacing against known examples online. Fakes often have sloppy or incorrect stamping.
  • The Blade: Many Norris planes came with high-quality laminated blades from makers like Ward or Sorby. An original, thick blade in good condition is a huge plus.
  • The Adjuster: Check that the adjuster moves smoothly. Early planes may have a different, non-patented adjuster, which is also correct for its era.
  • The Infill: Is it rosewood, ebony, or beech? Look for tight-fitting wood with no major cracks or chips. Check the front bun for any splits around the screw.
  • The Body: Inspect the dovetailed sides and the sole for any cracks, especially near the mouth. A little surface rust is fine, but deep pitting or cracks in the steel are major red flags.

Common Problems with Collecting Norris Woodworking Tools

Every collector makes mistakes, but you can avoid the most costly ones by being aware of the common problems with collecting norris woodworking tools. Forewarned is forearmed, as they say in the workshop.

Spotting Fakes and “Married” Pieces

Because of their high value, Norris planes are sometimes faked or “married” (assembled from parts of different planes). Be wary of planes with brand new-looking infills that don’t match the patina of the metal. Pay close attention to the stamping—it should be crisp and clear, not fuzzy or uneven.

Overpaying for Poor Condition

A Norris plane that has been heavily used, repaired, or modified is a “user-grade” tool. It might be a great performer, but it shouldn’t command the same price as a pristine, collector-grade example. Understand the difference and pay accordingly. Don’t let the name alone cloud your judgment on the tool’s actual condition.

Ignoring Hidden Damage

The most dangerous issue is a hairline crack in the steel body, often hidden by grime. Look very closely at the area around the mouth and where the sides meet the sole. A cracked body is nearly impossible to repair properly and drastically reduces the tool’s value and usability.

The Norris Tool Care Guide: Restoration and Preservation

Once you’ve acquired a Norris, the real joy begins: bringing it back to working shape. Your goal should be conservation, not total renovation. A good collecting norris woodworking tools care guide emphasizes preserving the tool’s history.

Gentle Cleaning and Rust Removal

Resist the urge to use a wire wheel or harsh abrasives! This will destroy the valuable patina. Instead, start with a soft cloth and some mineral spirits or WD-40 to dissolve old grease and grime. For light surface rust, use 0000 steel wool and a light oil. Work slowly and gently.

Tuning Up Your Norris for Use

This is where the magic happens. A well-tuned Norris is a dream to use.

  1. Flatten the Sole: Check the sole with a reliable straightedge. If it’s not flat, you’ll need to lap it on a flat surface like a granite plate or thick float glass, using progressively finer grits of wet-or-dry sandpaper.
  2. Sharpen the Blade: This is the most critical step. Norris blades are often thick, laminated steel. Hone the bevel and flatten the back to a mirror polish. A razor-sharp blade is non-negotiable.
  3. Set the Mouth: For the finest shavings, you want a very tight mouth opening. Some Norris planes have adjustable mouths, while others are fixed.

Preserving the Wood and Metal

Once cleaned and tuned, protect your investment. Apply a light coat of a good quality paste wax (like Briwax or Renaissance Wax) to all metal surfaces to prevent rust. For the rosewood infill, a gentle cleaning and a coat of wax will bring out its deep color and protect the wood.

The Sustainable Side of Collecting: Why Vintage Tools Matter

In a world of disposable goods, there’s a powerful argument for sustainable collecting norris woodworking tools. When you choose to restore and use a vintage tool, you’re opting out of the resource-intensive cycle of modern manufacturing.

These tools were built to last for generations, not years. By becoming a custodian of a Norris plane, you are practicing an eco-friendly collecting norris woodworking tools philosophy. You are preserving a functional piece of art, keeping it from the scrap heap, and honoring the materials and energy that went into its creation over a century ago.

Frequently Asked Questions About Collecting Norris Woodworking Tools

What’s the best Norris plane for a beginner to collect?

The Norris A5 smoothing plane is the perfect starting point. It’s the most commonly available model, making it more affordable, and it’s a wonderfully versatile plane for general-purpose smoothing. It gives you the full Norris experience without the price tag of a rarer model.

Are Norris planes practical to use in a modern workshop?

Absolutely! A well-tuned Norris plane is not just a collector’s item; it is a top-tier woodworking tool that can outperform many modern premium planes. Their mass and solid construction make them exceptional at handling difficult, figured woods.

How can I be sure a Norris plane is authentic?

Focus on the three key markers: the “NORRIS LONDON” stamp on the toe, the dovetailed steel construction, and the presence of a correct-style adjuster. Compare photos of your potential purchase with confirmed authentic examples from reputable dealer websites.

What is a reasonable price for a common Norris plane?

Prices vary wildly based on condition, model, and originality. A user-grade A5 with some wear but no major damage might sell for $400-$700. A pristine, collector-grade example with its original blade and minimal wear could easily fetch over $1,500 or more.

Collecting Norris tools is a journey into the heart of woodworking excellence. It’s about more than just filling a shelf; it’s about understanding what makes a tool truly great and putting that greatness to use in your own shop.

By starting with research, buying carefully, and treating these tools with the respect they deserve, you can build a collection that is not only a sound investment but a source of immense pride and satisfaction for years to come.

Now, go find your piece of history. Happy hunting, and stay safe in the workshop!

Jim Boslice
Latest posts by Jim Boslice (see all)

Similar Posts