The Spokeshave (fig. 60) is another form of plane used for modelling curved surfaces and edges.

The most common kind in England has a wooden stock of beech or box-wood, formed into a handle at each end. The face or sole is curved from back to front, and generally straight from end to end.

It is narrow, in order that it may pass over the curve with greater ease, and also, in cutting a concave curve, to assist in the formation of a regular surface.

The tool is made in all sizes, and the curve of the sole varies greatly, in order that they may be suited to many forms of curves. The ends of the blade are turned over, as in fig. 61, and finish in two square tangs, which pass through the stock, as shown in fig. 60.

Fig. 60. - a shows the ends of the tangs of the blade; b, the sole and blade; and c, the side elevation.

The tangs hold securely, the ends showing through on the top of the tool, but a blow on the end of either tang will drive the blade further from the sole. The space between the sole and the blade may be regulated in this way, and as a consequence the thickness of the shaving also.

Fig. 61.

Fig. 62.

The cutting angle of the blade should be 10° to 15°. The blade diminishes from the back to the cutting edge.

Some spokeshaves of American pattern are made with a cast-iron stock and steel blade (fig. 62), and some have double irons, like planes.

The blade in this pattern is held in place by a thumb-screw. These spokeshaves are useful, but, like all cast-iron tools, are very apt to break if dropped on a hard substance. The wooden spokeshave is recommended as being better and cheaper, and more suitable for a boy.