Hobel

Hobel is the German term for a hand plane, a woodworking tool used to flatten, square, and smooth wood surfaces by shaving thin layers from a workpiece. The word derives from the German verb hobeln, meaning to shave or plane. In German-speaking carpentry, Hobel can refer to any of several hand tools with a sharp blade set in a body, typically a metal or wooden plane iron that removes material in a controlled manner. Planes are used to reduce thickness, straighten edges, and create a flat reference surface, as well as to form grooves or molding with specialized versions.

Common types include smoothing planes for final surface preparation, jack planes for stock removal and flattening, and jointer planes for edge jointing. Block planes are smaller and often used for end grain and end work; rabbet (rebate) and plow planes cut grooves and shoulders; molding planes produce decorative profiles. Many planes use an adjustable blade with a cap iron to prevent tear-out; the mouth opening and depth of cut are controllable to suit wood species and task. In modern woodworking, powered planers (Elektrischer Hobel) offer faster surface stock removal, while traditional hand planes remain valued for control, finish quality, and quiet operation.

Hobel is also encountered in left- and right-handed variants and in regional tool-making traditions. See plane (tool) for broader context.