If you’re looking for a dovetail jig that’s built to last, then you’ll want to take a look at Porter Cable’s 4216. It’s got an impressive 18-inches of reach, and it’s easy to use. You also have the option to add on the Super 18” tool, which has a handy carrying case. In addition, it’s made from solid steel. And, best of all, it’s backed by a warranty.
Leigh Tools
Leigh Tools is a brand that specializes in making dovetail jigs. These jigs are used to make a variety of joints. Some of these include box joints and dovetails. The quality of a jig will have a significant impact on the accuracy of the joints that you cut.
In addition to dovetail jigs, Leigh Tools also makes other joinery jigs. This includes their RTJ400 Router Table Joinery Jig. It’s a great option for laying out boxes, cutting box joints and dovetails.
The Leigh D4R Pro is the ultimate variable finger dovetail jig. It comes with three carbide router bits and can mill up to 24″ wide boards at once. The jig has a solid aluminum body. You can create dovetails on any width, and you can use it to make a wide variety of box joints.
Another great dovetail jig is the Porter-Cable 4212. This jig is designed with patented alignment lines and a depth stop. You can set up the jig quickly to cut 1/4″ to 1 1/8″ thick stock.
General Tools 861
A dovetail jig is a device that holds a piece of wood in place. This allows you to make repeatable cuts on your workpiece. The device can vary in capability and is usually easy to use.
The Porter-Cable 4216 Dovetail Jig is a 12-inch wide all-in-one jig that comes pre-assembled. It includes three aluminum templates and a heavy-duty vice. Featuring a self-aligning design, it can produce precise dovetail joints.
The General Tools 861 Portable Aluminum Dovetail Jig is a compact, lightweight machine that can be used with a table router. Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional, the jig will allow you to cut a wide variety of joints.
The General Model 861 produces strong dovetail joints. Whether you are making cabinetry or furniture, this dovetail jig is perfect for you. Designed for maximum versatility, it can handle a variety of stock widths and thicknesses.
In addition to its dovetail capabilities, the jig can also be used to cut box joints. Using a hand table or table router, you can create dovetail rabbets or half-blind dovetails.
Porter Cable 4216
The Porter Cable 4216 Dovetail Jig is an excellent all in one dovetail jig. This jig can create eight different types of joints. It is suitable for both beginners and advanced woodworkers.
It comes with a three-year warranty. There are two different cutters to choose from. A port for a vacuum cleaner is also included. The jig is easy to use and it has an acrylic deflector shield to protect the workpiece.
The jig can make pins up to 1/2 inch. The maximum inclination angle is 14 degrees.
The jig can cut through dovetails and box joints. It is ideal for making custom furniture.
With its sturdy steel base design, it can be clamped directly to your work bench. While it may not be as versatile as an all-in-one dovetail jig, it is still an excellent choice.
It comes with three aluminum templates, including small dovetail joints and box joints. These allow for massive flexibility when it comes to types of joints.
Leigh Super 18”
The Leigh Super 18” Dovetail Jig is a sturdy, versatile tool that can make many joints. It has a flex-resistant body constructed from precision aluminum extrusion and tough glass-filled end caps. It comes with a user guide that provides clear instructions and illustrations.
This jig is suitable for use on any woodworking table and can hold two to four workpieces. It features spring-loaded aluminum bars that spread clamping pressure across the wood evenly.
The user guide offers comprehensive instruction for setting up and routing joint paths. For example, it addresses chipout, the common complaint about dovetail jigs. There are also tips on using the router in the right direction.
Leigh also provides a user DVD that can be viewed as a guide for a complete, step-by-step explanation of the jig’s operation. As with other jigs from the company, it offers high levels of accuracy.
The user guide includes three templates for popular joint types. These templates include a sliding dovetail template, a half-blind dovetail template and an e-Bush e7 guide bushing.