Surform planes have been described as a cross between a rasp and a plane.

Although similar to many food graters made of perforated sheet metal, surforms differ in having sharpened rims. Also, a surform typically is used to shape material, rather than grate it. 

What is a surform tool used for?
			A surform tool is primarily used for the shaping and trimming of wood, because it is easy to control and can be used at a fast pace to remove unwanted material.
			It can be used on both hardwood, such as oak, beech and mahogany, and softwood, such as larch, pine and spruce.
			Along with wood, it can also be used on many other materials, including plastic, aluminium, copper, laminates, foam and plasterboard.
			A surform tool can be used for a variety of jobs, for example in the manufacturing of furniture pieces.
			Additional uses commonly include shaping surfboards, making sculptures, and trimming plasterboard down to size.