Darren also consider that for many planes both metal and wood their are always blades available that can be bought and used for this application.
I have this project on my to do list and purchased a piece of European Beech to use to make it. In my view there is good reason why some specific woods were/are used in applications like this. Not all hardwoods are created equal. I think density and perhaps less elasticity as a result means better harder to flex when wedging and harder sole therefore more consistent and secure setting of blade is my thoughts to making the plane a user.
My guess is the reason for the comment he made would have to relate to how easy it is to setup and get the shaving wanted when in the tight spot.
Lets just take a normal well made wood plane, it has a relatively easy way to pretty precisely set the blade position simply with a tap in front or rear on the body once the blade is approx set. This allows for fine tune.
I would think same can be done in this case. Dunno hence i want to make one.
Perhaps Bill S. will weigh in on his experiences.
I really like the making of tools, more than actual projects.