re: Does It Work?

I don't own a 45, but I do have a Record plough plane and a Stanley 50 and a Woden rebate plane. You're right that any of these types of planes requires practice. The wood you're using them on and the grain direction also makes a big difference as does a really sharp iron and a shallow depth of cut. Concentrating on keeping the fence pressed against the edge of the wood is also really important. So much to think about. You did good though if that was your first attempt.