Balanced, comfortable and easy to control, the Rider No. 4 is the smoothing plane every workshop relies on. Ideal for general smoothing and fine finishing, it delivers a clean, consistent surface from the very first pass. Its low cutting angle allows the blade to slice cleanly through timber fibres, producing fine shavings and tackling end grain with ease. When you need even greater tear‑out control, increasing the bevel angle gives you the flexibility to refine performance to suit the timber.
A standout feature of the No. 4 is its upright tote. Set at a more vertical angle and securely mounted to the cast body, it helps maintain steady downward pressure throughout the cut. Made from maple and lightly oiled, the ergonomic shaping offers a natural, comfortable hold for all hand sizes, reducing fatigue and helping you work with better rhythm and control. A simple change that makes a noticeable difference.
Designed and developed in the UK with input from professional woodworkers, the No. 4 brings modern refinement to a heritage‑inspired design. It offers a naturally balanced feel, is straightforward to set up, and easy to adjust, making it a pleasure to use day after day. Built from a solid, durable body for long‑term accuracy, it features a cryogenically hardened M2 high‑speed steel (HSS) blade, tough, wear‑resistant and capable of handling difficult or interlocked grain. A stainless‑steel Norris‑style adjuster gives smooth, precise depth and lateral control while resisting corrosion, ensuring reliable adjustment year after year.
A high‑performance workshop essential, this is a plane that quietly gets the job done. Understated but never under‑performing - when you reach for a smoothing plane, reach for Rider, the woodworker’s choice.