[2] Its long length is designed to 'ride over' the undulations of an uneven surface, skimming off the peaks, gradually creating a flatter surface.

[2][3] Jointer planes are typically 20 to 24 inches (510 to 610 mm) long, and are the longest hand planes commonly used.

[4] The use of the name jointer plane dates back to at least the 17th century, referring to the process of readying the edges of boards for jointing.

But, since the development of the metal-bodied hand plane at the end of the 19th century, wooden-bodied jointers have been largely superseded.

This can make metal-bodied jointers more tiring to use for extended periods of time.