>But the fact that forward force is transmitted to the Stanley (and just about
any
>other 19th Century plane) is clearly proved by the classic breaks found in
plane
>totes.  It is inarguable that these breaks are the result of forward force
applied to
>the top of the tote. 
>Mike in Sacto

I beg to differ with the issue of hand pressure damaging plane totes. 
I buy broken planes. All makes. All models. I have several that are in the
process of being patched together and several more that have survived the
experience and are happily making shavings. I have only the evidence before me
to draw my conclusions from but I have noticed that on the planes that have
broken totes, either the horn chipped or the tote cracked about 1” or less up
from the base, they also have a distinct bend in the lateral adjuster and quite
often a damaged knob. Some even have bends in the top of the blade and chips in
the frog casting. On the basis of those observations I believe they have managed
to land on their tops after being dropped.
I also recycle wood in the projects that I somehow manage to work into my busy
schedule. Most of the stuff has knots and twisted grain that can stop even my
heavy Stanley 5 1/4 in mid stroke.
While I tip the scales at just less than 300 and tend to be aggressive in my
actions I have yet to damage a tote on any plane by using it properly.
The same holds true for the few wooden and transitional planes that have fallen
into my hands. They bear the signs of impact on the tops, ends, and sides but no
indication of hand pressure snapping off the base or horn of a tote.

Dave N. 
aka Old Sneelock