K-series in Desert Ironwood

Lots of Desert Ironwood!

At one point several weeks ago I had 4 planes on the bench and every one of them was infilled with Desert Ironwood. It was pretty awesome to see. I love working with this material - except it kinda smells bad... but a small price to pay in the grand scheme of things. 

(please click on the photos for a better view)

The first plane is a K9. Stainless steel lever cap and lever cap screw. 

This next plane is a K18. I did not think I would ever find a piece of Desert Ironwood large enough to make this plane. It was a real find. 

There was a great burl cluster in the blank for the front pad. Thankfully it did not disappear during the shaping process.

Another K9 - this time with a bronze lever cap and lever cap screw. Desert Ironwood is one of those woods that works well with an all steel treatment, or a bronze lever cap and screw. That little hit of bronze seems to be just right with the Ironwood. This was a case where the customer was able to stop by and hand pick the piece of wood for the plane.

 

 

Last, but certainly not least, a K13a with a stainless steel lever cap screw and adjuster. 

I recently stocked up on Desert Ironwood and have some more spectacular material just like these 4 planes. Some of it is already spoken for but there are a several sets left including another K18.