Dovetail Jigs Tool Test Review
Models tested include the Leigh D4R Pro, Leigh Super 18, Porter-Cable 4212, Fast -Joint Precision Joinery System, Leigh RTJ400, MLCS Master Joinery Set, and Rockler Complete
Synopsis: Router dovetail jigs promise to make flawless dovetails quickly and easily. We tested the jigs that can make both half-blind dovetails and through-dovetails, cutting test joints in 7/8-in.-thick stock and trying variable spacing and deeper tails when possible. Models tested include the Leigh D4R Pro, Leigh Super 18, Porter-Cable 4212, Fast -Joint Precision Joinery System, Leigh RTJ400, MLCS Master Joinery Set, and Rockler Complete.
Everyone loves the look of hand-cut dovetails, but not everyone loves to cut them. That’s why many woodworkers turn to a router dovetail jig. These jigs promise to make flawless dovetails quickly and easily. To help you pick the best one, Fine Woodworking asked me to test the field. There’s a pile of dovetail jigs on the market, so we tested only the ones that can do both half-blinds and through-dovetails, as both are essential for furniture making.
Most of the jigs are…
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sad for all our US friends that the Gifkins Dovetail jig was not tested - have tried others and they simply do not compare - ease of use and accuracy, coupled with a wide range of templates makes it the standout dovetail jig - can be shipped from Australia to the US - I use two templates for different size dovetails and another for finger joints - perfect every time and so easy to set up
http://gifkins.com.au/
What about the Porter Cable 77240 24" OMNIJIG?
I've just read the article...and I have had (for a number of years) the D4R Pro. It has proved to be an excellent choice for the various wood working projects I wanted to use dove-tail joints. One pleasant surprise was the very reasonable cost of the high quality OEM replacement bits from Leigh... that re-affirmed my choice!
this is exactly the information I was looking for. Thank you!