ReferenceStanley No. 8 specification
Specification plate
- Kind
- Jointer plane (heavy)
- Length
- 24 in.
- Iron width
- 2⅝ in.
- Weight
- 9¾ lb
- Catalogued
- 1869–1961
- Corrugated (C)
- 8C, 1898–1961; Leach says it is far less common than the 7C.
- Half sizes
- None
- Bed Rock version
- 608 (1898–1940); 608C (1898–1935).
Sizes, weights and catalogue years from Patrick Leach’s Blood & Gore.
UseWhat the No. 8 is for
The longest and heaviest Bailey jointer. Leach says the weight helps when running into a change in grain or a knot; Wood Review calls it a heavy beast, less popular, but good for making wood straight and true.
CollectingCollectors’ notes
- Less common than the No. 7, and its 2⅝ in. iron is the widest in the series.
DatingHow old is my Stanley No. 8?
Date it with the collectors’ type study: patent dates behind the frog, the lateral lever, the lever-cap logo and hole, the knob and the iron logo narrow it to a range of years. The study was written around the No. 4; other sizes follow it with minor differences. A Bed Rock 608 or an English-made plane needs other references.
Before you buyWhat to check on a used No. 8
In-person checks
ValueWhat is a Stanley No. 8 worth?
No source we trust publishes a figure.
QuestionsFrequently asked questions
How long is a Stanley No. 8 plane?
24 in., with a 2⅝ in. iron, weighing about 9¾ lb (Leach).
When was the Stanley No. 8 made?
Stanley catalogued it from 1869 to 1961. To date your plane, use the type finder.
Is there a corrugated No. 8C?
8C, 1898–1961; Leach says it is far less common than the 7C.
Is there a Bed Rock version of the No. 8?
608 (1898–1940); 608C (1898–1935).
ReferencesSources
Patrick Leach asks that Blood & Gore be credited by name. Where sources disagree we show both. Spotted an error? Tell us.
- www.supertool.com/StanleyBG/stan1.htm
- www.supertool.com/StanleyBG/stan15.htm
- woodreview.com.au/reviews/handplanes-by-numbers
Last reviewed October 2026