The Omnijig has been Porter-Cable’s flagship dovetail machine for many years. In fact, the entire jig is being radically redesigned, with the new version set for a January 2007 release. Fine Woodworking editor Asa Christiana takes a look at a prototype of the new jig in his companion video. (link below) 

The existing version is the heaviest and most solid of any of the jigs we evaluated (the 7216 weighs in at 60 lb.). Both existing models come with a half-blind template, a router bit, and a template guide bushing. A special offer on the 24-in. model includes a variably spaced through-template.

The Omnijigs arrive assembled with only minor adjustment necessary. The instructions are simple and straightforward, and a good video is included. The solid-steel, cam-action clamping bars have no flex, but to adjust them for different thicknesses you have to reach awkwardly under the jig.

The half-blind templates work well. But on the one for variably spaced through-dovetails, the T-shaped handle on each finger can get in the way of the router above and the workpiece below. Also, it’s easy to tighten down the fingers in a slanted position.

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