The Stanley 220 model block plane is a simple, elegant tool at an excellent price. With fixed mouth, there are fewer moving parts to worry about. The controls on the blade are excellent.

The block plane is an exceedingly handy little tool that makes up for many small imperfections that appear when working with wood. The "standard" angle of 20° is low enough to cut across endgrain in green wood. For dry, hard wood endgrain, you may need a "low angle" block plane, usually around 12°. At either angle, the block plane will quickly find a special, very handy, spot in your pocket, toolbag, or bucket.