How to Compare Dove Tailing Jigs
- 1). Decide what your main uses for the jig will be for, such as cutting pins and tails precisely on a dovetail joint or performing through, sliding and half-blind dovetails -- not all jigs come equipped with templates that can cut all joints equally as well. Choose a dovetail jig that matches the specific work you are doing or choose one that can be adjusted for a number of different jobs.
- 2). Determine whether you want variably spaced guide fingers or fixed space guide fingers. Purchase a dovetail jig that has adjustable guide fingers if the work you're doing requires that the jig fit the stock. Choose a fixed finger dovetail jig if you are okay with the jig dictating the size of the stock.
- 3). Take price into consideration. Choose a variable finger dovetail jig if price is not an issue to you. Select a fixed finger dovetail jig to save money -- as much as 50 percent of what a variably spaced dovetail jig costs.
- 4). Verify that the dovetail jig you are choosing can work with the wood stock you have -- some jigs can process stock that is as thin as a 1/4 inch, while others can only work with stock that is at least 5/16 inch thick.
- 5). Consider brands when deciding on your dovetail jig as there are a number of manufacturers of dovetail jogs. Porter-Cable, AKEDA, Leigh, PC Omnijig, Keller and Woodstock are just a few of the brands you will need to consider when purchasing a dovetail jig. Look for Internet reviews on woodworking and retail sites or talk to your local hardware salesman for details about which brands are the best.
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