#46 Guard Plate
The Guard Plate was included with the #46 from 1873 to 1896.
Beginning with the type 8 planes, they went to a more standard fence design.
The guard plate fits into keyhole slots in the sliding section. The
screws changed design over the years. First with oval heads without
slots, then oval heads with slots, and finally flat heads with slots.
To remove a guard plate, you actually have to TIGHTEN the screw.
When buying a plane, remove the guardplate and make sure that the keyholes
are in good shape. This area is freqently broken out, and the damage
may not be seen until the guardplate is removed.
Early Type 2 guardplate
Early Type 2 Guardplate. This detail is typical for all types.
First (and last) nickel-plated guard plate from a type 7 plane.