HNT Gordon - Smoothing and Trying Plane Hand Grip

The photos show the smoothing plane being used; however, the trying plane hand grip is the same.

Step 1 Hold the plane with what I call the pistol grip ensuring your thumb and hand rest on the back of the plane.
Step 2 Using your other hand copy the position of the first hand as shown. In this position your index fingers can control the weight on the front of the plane and your crossed thumbs control the weight on the back of the plane. This grip ensures you can balance the weight around the plane blade from starting to finishing the cut on a piece of wood.
This photo shows what the grip looks like from another perspective.
This is an alternate grip so that you can use the plane with a pulling action. Very useful when planing large wood surfaces such as table tops. Also my preferred grip when using the plane as a scraper.
This is the recommended handgrip when you lay the plane on its side for use on a shooting board. There are other photos showing this in 'Using Planes - Planing End Grain' on the website
A view from the other side. With this grip ensure your hand doesn't foul the shaving coming out of the throat.

Please Note: The above pictures are only recommended ways of holding this style of plane. You may have your own way of doing it which is just as good. The way that gives you the best results is the best way. Also of note is the fact that you are always pushing or pulling the plane with straight wrists so there is an efficient and accurate transfer of power from your upper body through your arms down to the blade edge.