Quick Tips for a Razor-Sharp Block Plane

A dull blade holds back every cut—and your craft. In the video above, Craig Bentzley shares his fast, effective method for sharpening a block plane blade using simple tools and proven techniques. His approach to blade sharpening focuses on efficiency, precision and ease, making it one of the best ways to sharpen a blade without overcomplicating the process.

To get there, Craig starts with the essentials: a flat, polished back and a clean bevel. Using the Veritas Mk.II Honing Guide, a granite surface with 100-grit PSA sandpaper and Norton 4000/8000 grit waterstone, he demonstrates how to reestablish the primary bevel and apply a crisp micro bevel with just a few controlled strokes. The result is a burr-free, mirror-polished edge—achieved in minutes.

Simple Tools. Professional Results

You don’t need a complicated setup to get professional results. A dependable blade sharpener like the one featured in this demo can help you keep your tools in peak condition. Whether you’re refining a new edge or touching up between projects, using the best blade sharpener makes a measurable difference in cut quality and control.

Master Your Block Plane

Sharp blades don’t just improve performance—they unlock the full potential of your tools. Learn more about why the block plane is one of the most versatile hand tools in your shop by reading Craig’s article, The Essential Block Plane: How to Choose and Use Woodworking’s Most Popular Trimmer.

With the right method and mindset, blade sharpening becomes a quick, rewarding part of your workflow.