The video “BELT SANDER BAN – Why? Where? …and what to use instead.” is by Stumpy Nubs (James Hamilton).

For over a decade, James has been teaching woodworking and has discovered a common trend among hobbyist woodworkers—they tend to shy away from hand planes. Many woodworkers find the skill required for those delicate wispy shavings intimidating.
It’s true; there’s a tendency to have more sanders than planes in most workshops, and that’s perfectly fine. However, James has a strong aversion to one particular sander: the belt sander.
Belt sanders, in James’ words, are “noisy, ham-handed tools” that create a dust storm in the shop and can ruin a project in seconds. If you’re using one, he urges you to consider a better alternative—a tool that’s quieter, cleaner, and more precise. This tool doesn’t require electricity or expensive replacement parts and can often be found for a bargain at yard sales.
The replacement for the belt sander? A hand plane, but not just any hand plane. James recommends a flea market plane with a special modification: a cambered iron. Unlike traditional planes, this one is designed to remove wood quickly and efficiently, without the dust and noise.
James shares examples of how this modified plane has transformed his woodworking projects:
- Leveling uneven workbenches without the mess.
- Fixing tight drawers in old furniture swiftly.
- Smoothing warped boards that are too large for standard jointers.
The secret lies in the cambered iron, which is ground with a radius on the cutting edge, turning the plane into a “wood hogging workhorse.” James guides viewers through the process of crafting this modification, from creating a template to grinding the iron.
He emphasizes that this tool is meant for rough work, not fine smoothing. It’s about efficiency and practicality, making it ideal for tasks where a belt sander might be used. By adopting this approach, woodworkers can save time, money, and avoid the mess of using a belt sander.
For those who are ready to make the switch, James offers a step-by-step tutorial on modifying a hand plane and encourages woodworkers to give it a try. This small change could mean never reaching for the belt sander again.
In conclusion, James presents a compelling case for ditching the belt sander in favor of a modified hand plane. It’s a shift towards a quieter, cleaner, and more efficient woodworking experience.