● Woodworking · Review

Stanley Sweetheart No. 4 Smoothing Bench Plane

Stanley Sweetheart line is the improved version over budget Stanley -- better iron and casting

✎ PickHonest Research Desk▦ Updated October 15, 2026◷ 3 min read

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Stanley Sweetheart No. 4 Smoothing Bench Plane
Best Stanley

Stanley Sweetheart No. 4 Smoothing Bench Plane

Stanley

Stanley Sweetheart line is the improved version over budget Stanley -- better iron and casting

  • Stanley Sweetheart line
  • Better than budget Stanley
  • Chrome casting
  • No. 4 size

Pros

  • Stanley Sweetheart line is the improved version over budget Stanley -- better iron and casting
  • The original Stanley No. 4 form factor -- the most successful bench plane design in history
  • Lower price than WoodRiver and Veritas
  • The correct choice for woodworkers who want to learn on a Stanley before committing to a premium plane

Cons

  • Still requires flattening the sole and back of the iron before first use
  • Chrome casting is more brittle than ductile iron (Lie-Nielsen)
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