elbow position

[nuke99]

also.. how far the elbow highly depends on the plane . the more upright the plane the more the elbow will need "fly" on the top.

but this is relative to how your body setup.. the more bent over, the more your elbow will need to stay close to the body .

so the Plane is the boss.

and I think... if i am not wrong.. Elbow plane is the best for what you are asking for.