I kinda agree with this. I don't own a hand held power plane, (I've used them, just never was good with one), but I do have a nice collection of block planes. I've got a bigger two handed model that when properly sharpened can really hog material off. When I say properly sharpened, I mean literally razor sharp, like you can pull the knife and shave with it.

A sharp block plane is a joy to use. And I'm not saying it can't be done other ways, I make a living making stuff outta wood, and it was the first thing that came to mind.

Man, this thread makes me want to carve up some wooden boards and blades just for fun. Making them hollow would be kind neat too.