Tsutoki

Tsutoki is a type of Japanese woodworking tool, specifically a plane. It is characterized by its very wide mouth, significantly larger than that of a standard Japanese plane (kanna). This wide mouth allows the tsutoki to remove a large amount of material quickly, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks such as flattening rough lumber or removing large imperfections.

The blade of a tsutoki is typically very thick and robust to withstand the forces involved in aggressive stock removal. The body of the plane is usually made of hard Japanese wood, often izu or ubame oak, to provide durability and stability. Like other Japanese planes, the tsutoki is operated by striking the back of the blade with a mallet to adjust the depth of cut, and the plane is pushed forward by hand.

Tsutoki are not commonly found in modern woodworking shops, as their specialized function means they are only necessary for specific applications. They are more frequently seen in traditional Japanese carpentry, particularly in historical restoration projects or in workshops that focus on traditional timber framing. The use of a tsutoki requires a skilled hand and significant strength due to the tool's size and the amount of force needed to operate it effectively. Its primary purpose is rapid material reduction, prioritizing speed and efficiency over fine finishing.