Also called a junior jack, the traditional #5 1/4 was 12" (305mm) long, in between a #4 smooth plane at 10" (254mm) and a #5 jack at 14" (255mm).
The Veritas #5 1/4W differs from the original in many ways – mainly, it has a wider blade and the mouth is 4 3/8" (111mm) behind the nose, unlike the original at 3 1/2" (89mm). For better accuracy, an extra-long sole in front of the blade makes it easier to keep the sole flush to the wood when starting a cut. Combined, the mouth location and sensitive feed adjustment let the #5 1/4W serve as a jointer for most cabinet work.
Like all of the Veritas bench planes, the #5 1/4W bench plane incorporates a frog that extends all the way to the sole. This unique design provides complete blade support, reducing chatter and allows quick mouth adjustment. It can be closed to a narrow slit for fine shavings and minimum tear-out, or opened for heavier cuts, all without removing the lever cap or other parts; just loosen two screws and set the opening with the thumb wheel.
The body is fully stress-relieved ductile cast iron. The surface-ground 12" (305mm) × 2 1/2" (63mm) sole is flat and square to the sides, with extra-large side wings for stable shooting. The hardwood front knob and rear tote provide excellent control and comfort. A combined feed and lateral adjustment mechanism make blade setting easy and accurate. The 2" (51mm) wide lapped blade is a full 1/8" (3.2mm) thick premium PM-V11 tool steel.
Patented. Made in Canada.