Stanley No. 21 Transitional Small Smoothing Plane

History, Identification, Features, Restoration & Collector Value

1. Introduction

The Stanley No. 21 Transitional Small Smoothing Plane is one of Stanley’s more compact and refined transitional models, designed for fine surface finishing and light smoothing work. Featuring a traditional wooden body combined with Stanley’s Bailey-style blade adjustment mechanism, the No. 21 exemplifies the company’s effort to modernize woodworking tools while preserving the familiar feel of wooden planes.

Smaller than most transitional planes, the No. 21 was intended for cabinetmakers and craftsmen who needed precise control for final smoothing operations. Today, it is appreciated for its graceful proportions, usability, and its place in the evolutionary story of Stanley planes.

2. History of the Stanley No. 21 Transitional Plane

Stanley introduced transitional planes in the early 1870s, during a time when many woodworkers were cautious about adopting fully cast-iron planes. The No. 21 was part of Stanley’s strategy to offer specialized sizes that mirrored traditional wooden smoothing planes.

Key historical highlights:

Introduced: Circa 1869
Production Period: Approximately 1869–1917
Purpose: Fine smoothing and finishing work
Market Role: Compact alternative to larger transitional and metal smoothing planes

The No. 21 was marketed toward craftsmen who preferred lighter tools with excellent tactile feedback, especially for final surface preparation.

3. Manufacturer Background – Stanley Rule & Level Company

The Stanley Rule & Level Company, founded in 1843, rose to dominance after acquiring Leonard Bailey’s plane patents in the late 19th century. Stanley’s ability to blend innovation with tradition made transitional planes especially successful during the period of technological change.

By offering tools like the No. 21, Stanley eased craftsmen into modern adjustment systems without forcing them to abandon familiar wooden-plane ergonomics.

4. Design and Features of the Stanley No. 21 Transitional Small Smoothing Plane

The Stanley No. 21 is distinguished by its compact size and balanced handling, making it ideal for detailed work.

Key Design Features

Beechwood body with smoothly finished sole
Bailey-style frog assembly mounted to the wood body
Steel cutter (iron) with chipbreaker
Brass depth-adjustment knob
Lateral adjustment lever
Open rear tote or horn-style grip (varies by production era)
Beechwood Knob
Finish: Japanned frame, lacquered wood body and knob

The wooden body reduces vibration and allows the plane to glide smoothly, particularly on figured hardwoods.

Typical Dimensions

Length: ~7 inches
Iron Width: ~1¾ inches
Cutter Angle: 45 degrees
Weight: Very light compared to cast-iron smoothing planes

5. Usage and Applications

The Stanley No. 21 Transitional Plane was designed specifically for fine smoothing and finishing tasks, squaring small blocks of wood and chamfering.

Typical applications include:

Final surface smoothing
Removing light tool marks
Preparing stock for finishing
Fine cabinet and furniture work
Trimming and touch-up work at the bench

Many modern hand-tool woodworkers still favor small transitional smoothers for delicate operations where control and feedback matter most. They also appreciate the wood bottom that provides an easier glide over stock compared to all metal planes.

6. Identification Tips

Authentic Stanley No. 21 Transitional Planes can be identified by several features:

“STANLEY” stamped cutter
Model designation “21” on original documentation or hardware (often indirect)
Wooden body with mounted metal frog
Bailey-pattern depth and lateral adjustment mechanisms
Narrow iron suited to smoothing work

Earlier examples typically feature heavier irons and crisper machining, while later planes show simplified fittings.

7. Restoration of the Stanley No. 21 Transitional Plane

Restoring a No. 21 is well within reach for most collectors and users.

Typical Restoration Steps

Disassemble iron, chipbreaker, and adjustment hardware
Remove rust from metal parts using gentle methods
Lightly flatten the wooden sole on glass or granite
Clean and lubricate adjustment mechanisms
Repair minor cracks or checks in the wood body if present
Sharpen the iron to a fine edge suitable for smoothing
Reassemble and test on hardwood

Tip: Preserve the original patina on the wood body whenever possible to maintain collector value.

8. Collectability and Value Today

The Stanley No. 21 Transitional Small Smoothing Plane is moderately collectible, especially among Stanley transitional completists.

Typical Value Ranges

User condition: $45–$80
Clean, original condition: $80–$160
Excellent examples: $175+

Value is influenced by:

Condition of the wood body
Original iron and chipbreaker
Completeness of adjustment hardware
Absence of cracks or heavy repairs
Age and Type – Earlier types, 1, 2, 3, and 4 command higher prices (produced before 1873)

While not rare, the No. 21 is less commonly encountered than larger transitional planes, adding to its appeal.

9. Finding Parts, Documentation, and Resources

Useful resources include:

Stanley transitional plane type studies
Original Stanley catalogs and price lists
VintageMachinery.org archives
Stanley Tool Collector Club references
Replacement and reproduction parts from:
- Hock Tools
- Lee Valley
- St. James Bay Tool Co.

Most No. 21 planes can be restored using original components with minimal replacement.

10. Final Thoughts

The Stanley No. 21 Transitional Small Smoothing Plane is a refined, elegant example of Stanley’s transitional design philosophy. Compact, responsive, and historically significant, it remains a favorite for fine woodworking and a desirable addition to any Stanley collection.

For craftsmen who appreciate the warmth of wood combined with mechanical precision, the No. 21 offers both usability and a tangible link to woodworking’s past.

Quick Reference Summary

Category	Details
Manufacturer	Stanley Rule & Level Company
Model	No. 21 Transitional Small Smoothing Plane
Production Era	c. 1872–1943
Body Material	Beechwood
Adjustment System	Bailey-style
Typical Length	~10–10½ inches
Restoration Difficulty	Easy
Collectability	Moderate
Modern Usefulness	Excellent

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