Which type of plane is primarily used to smooth surfaces and provide a uniform finish by shaving off wood?

The type of plane primarily used to smooth surfaces and provide a uniform finish by shaving off wood is the bench plane. Bench planes are versatile tools found in woodworking that come in a variety of sizes, with the most commonly known being the jack plane, jointer plane, and smoothing plane. They are designed to handle larger areas of wood, making it easier to create a flat surface or to level an edge.

When using a bench plane, the operator moves the tool along the wood grain, shaving off thin layers of material. This not only helps in achieving a smooth, even surface but also in refining the overall shape of the wood piece. Bench planes are equipped with a long sole, which helps maintain stability and provides greater flatness as the tool is passed over the wood.

In contrast, the other types of planes mentioned serve more specialized purposes. Block planes, for example, are smaller and used for trimming end grain or making slight adjustments. Shoulder planes are used for dados and rabbets, focusing on precision tasks where exact fit is required. Router planes are primarily utilized for hollowing out areas, such as grooves or recesses, rather than for smoothing surfaces. Thus, the bench plane stands out as the ideal choice for achieving a smooth finish on wood surfaces