[jargo432]

Who makes the best dovetail jig?

 

[ryan50hrl]

Who makes the best dovetail jig?

What's the price range?

 

[jargo432]

Under $300

 

[woodnthings]

There's basically 3 types

The entry level jigs have the capacity to make only half blind DT's, or box joints and comes with 3 templates to make 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2" joints like this: http://www.hartvilletool.com/product/4754/dovetail-jigs

The next level has the capacity to make through DT's and has both templates for fixed spacing of the pins and tails like this: http://woodworking.about.com/od/rec...king-Tools/Porter-Cable-4212-Dovetail-Jig.htm

The best jigs have individual fingers which allow variable spacing of the pins and tails: http://dovetailjigreviews.com/leigh-d4r-dovetail-jig-review/

There is a 4th type that just supplies the template, no clamping mechanism. http://dovetailjigs.wordpress.com/2011/10/26/keller-1500-journeyman-dovetail-jig-review/

In my own experience it's all about the setup for the first type, trial and error for bit height and proper fit for each size. Once you get the router set you almost want to leave it and never use that router for any other purpose.... like I did. I also have the template type and have yet to use that one. I have no experience with the other types...prices were too scary! :yes:

A really good review of the types here: http://www.thewoodshop.20m.com/dovetail_jig_compare.htm

 

[cabinetman]

Who makes the best dovetail jig?

Try handcut DT's. You might like it.:yes:

.

 

[ryan50hrl]

Try handcut DT's. You might like it.:yes: .

Lol....I've gotta give credit to those that have the patience for hand cutting joints.....Not for me.

Anyhow....back to the original question. For under 300 it's the porter cable hands down.

 

[GROOVY]

Leigh

 

[ryan50hrl]

Leigh

For under 300?

 

[woodnthings]

I have this one

No clamping mechanism, but a real nice aluminum template, 1/2" thick and you make your own block and hold downs.
Also under $300.00 for a 30" wide template.

http://www.ptreeusa.com/ptree_dovetail_system.htm

 

[GROOVY]

For under 300?

Leigh Super 12" Dovetail Jig $269.00

 

[BZawat]

I have a Leigh Super 12" with the accessory kit that's in really nice shape collecting dust in my shop. (Has VRS attachment & all parts, and 3 bits: 1/2" 10* DT, 3/4" 8* DT, and a 1/4" straight bit).

http://m.woodcraft.com/Catalog/ProductPage2.aspx?id=2020325&ProdId=21280&

Works awesome but I haven't used it in forever. Id sell it for $250 plus shipping. PM me if you're interested.

 

[BernieL]

This question is a can of worms... we all think our purchase was the best.

 

[jargo432]

This question is a can of worms... we all think our purchase was the best.

Not me, every time I buy something I look back and wish I'd bought something else. Example....

My table saw would only take 1/2" dados...My dovetail jig would only do half blind dovetails and the list goes on and on.....

 

[Paulespo]

Check out U-Tube

I saw a jig that you use on a table router. Looks very simple and quick. I forgot the name but search dovetail and see if you can find it.