Overview
Cutting beautiful through and half-blind dovetails is fast and easy with our new and improved dovetail jig! Rockler's exclusive one-piece stop gives you the perfect offset every time for dead-on dovetailing accuracy. And our new preset template guide allows for quick initial setup for 1/2" to 3/4" thick stock. Jig will cut half-blind dovetailed joints from 1/2" to 1-1/8" thick and full through dovetails from 3/8" to 3/4" thick.
Features:
- Accommodates stock up to 11" wide
- 8mm diameter bits are 25% larger than typical 1/4" bits, reduce chatter and fit all existing Rockler dovetail jigs
- Preset template and fence locations clearly marked for standard thickness stock
- Clamping bars include abrasive surface to grip stock and prevent slipping
- Depth gauge on template for setting dovetail bit height for half-blind joints
Important Notes
- Requires router with 1/2" collet.
- Requires a router base plate that accepts template guide bushings.
What's included
(1) Dovetail Jig
(2) Phenolic Templates
(1) 1/2'' x 14° x 8mm Shank, Carbide-Tipped Router Bit
(1) 1/2'' x 8° x 8mm Shank, Carbide-Tipped Router Bit
(1) 5/16'' x 8mm Shank, Straight Carbide-Tipped Router Bit
(1) 1/2'' to 8mm Collet Adapter
(1) 7/16'' Guide Bushing (fits most routers)
(1) Detailed eight-page instruction booklet
(2) Phenolic Templates
(1) 1/2'' x 14° x 8mm Shank, Carbide-Tipped Router Bit
(1) 1/2'' x 8° x 8mm Shank, Carbide-Tipped Router Bit
(1) 5/16'' x 8mm Shank, Straight Carbide-Tipped Router Bit
(1) 1/2'' to 8mm Collet Adapter
(1) 7/16'' Guide Bushing (fits most routers)
(1) Detailed eight-page instruction booklet
Technical Details
- Brand: Rockler
- Weight (lbs): 23.4000
Product Warnings
WARNING Cancer and Reproductive Harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/product Technical Downloads
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Frequently Bought Together
Questions and Answers
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Browse 37 questions
Browse 37 questions
and 91 answers
Why did you choose this?
Rockler Store
It for my sons birthday and he loves to do woodworking.
Kathy E
on Feb 9, 2018
I want to use dovetail for the draws and I have use the jig before. now I want one for my shop.
William L
on Jan 26, 2018
It for my sons birthday and he loves to do woodworking.
Kathy E
on Feb 9, 2018
Old craftsman dovetail jig didn’t work anymore
Robanette C
on Jan 30, 2018
Old craftsman dovetail jig didn’t work anymore
Robanette C
on Jan 30, 2018
Good reviews on the internet
Charles W
on Jan 4, 2018
I just bought this jig. Tested several times making multiple adjustments and still can't get the 1/2 blinds to fit. Pins too large/ slot too small. I have dropped the bit as well as raised the bit. Nothing seems to work. I'm using the bushing the kit came with as well as the 1/2" 14 degree bit it came with. Very frustrated. How do I fix?
BEST ANSWER: if bushing isn't centered on bit there will be a small amount of "lash". In other words, the bit will be spinning in an offset circle from the bushing (think oblong) enough to cause looseness.
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- Richard B on Oct 20, 2017
what routers are compatible with this jig?
BEST ANSWER: I would suggest a Porter Cable 690, this router already has a base that accepts the standard bushing that comes with this dovetail jig
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- Rick H Staff on Jan 7, 2016
I have a Hitachi M12VC router- will the base accept the bushing?
BEST ANSWER: As long as it has a 1/2" collet.
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- Val K on Sep 22, 2015
- Purchased on Jul 3, 2015
Can you make box or finger joints with this jig?
BEST ANSWER: No, this is not recommend for this type of joint; we recommend a box joint jig for this.
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- Steve Staff on Apr 29, 2016
The Rockler web page for this jig shows a dust collector attachment, but the actual Rockler list of what's included doesn't reflect dust collector parts. Does it or doesn't it include the dust collector?
BEST ANSWER: The dust collector is sold separately but has been sometimes packaged with the jig as a sale item. I bought mine that way but do not know if they still periodically package them together at times for sales.
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- Douglas L on Feb 1, 2016
- Purchased on Feb 13, 2015
I have a bosch 1617EVSPK router. Do you know if the base will accept the guide bushings?
BEST ANSWER: The Bosch 1617 base will not accept the guide bushings. Rockler does have a base that will fit the 1617 router that will accept the guide bushings. The # is 35062 and the price is $11.99
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- Rick H Staff on Aug 6, 2015
Can I buy the shaft that the tightening handle screws into so handle is on right side?
BEST ANSWER: The only way the handle is not on the right side is if you have installed it backwards The handle should tighten as you push it down, not as you pull it up.
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- Stephen R on Dec 6, 2015
- Purchased on Apr 3, 2015
I can not lower my dovetail bit to the desired height because it hits the template guide bushing. What am I doing wrong?
BEST ANSWER: I had the same problem. You are using the wrong router bit for the the 1/2 blind dovetails. Use only the shorter of the dovetail bits (1/2"x 14 degrees). See the last paragraph at the bottom of page 2 of the instructions. I did exactly same thing as you. I guess it makes sense to read the instructions!!
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- Max on Jan 28, 2016
I use a Makita RT0700 router which only accepts a 1/4" shank bits. Would the bits provided in the package be able to fit ?
BEST ANSWER: No, it won't. You can buy a dovetail bits with a 1/4 inch shank. You also have to make sure that the bit you buy will fit through the guide bushing with the proper amount protruding.
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- ARCHIE K on May 4, 2015
- Purchased on Nov 29, 2014
Confused about stock thickness. Looks like 1/2 or more is standard, but I don't understand why. I want to build a small box with 1/4 or 3/8 stock. Will this unit do the job?
BEST ANSWER: Great question, I have wanted to do the same. I thought of adding a backer board as a spacer so it would seem like there is 1/2 or thicker wood in the jig. I will be giving this a try in a few weeks. If no better solution is offered or discovered by you, I will post my results.
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- Sgtcoop on Sep 12, 2017
- Purchased on Apr 1, 2017
I have 3 top of the line routers, but they only take 1/4" bits. Will this work with your dovetail jigs?
BEST ANSWER: You must have a cutter whose taking 8mm Hello Milan
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- Milan S on Aug 18, 2017
- Purchased on Aug 19, 2015
Whats the differences between Rockler dovetail kit and the Porter-cable dovetail jig kit?
BEST ANSWER: Abe
I actually don't know because I've only used the Rockler system. I can certainly vouch for it! My view is that systems within the same price range will be similar in specs ... If you need greater width than 12 inches, say, you will be spending more. But if your just doing boxes or drawers, Rockler is your man!!
v t y
Colin
I actually don't know because I've only used the Rockler system. I can certainly vouch for it! My view is that systems within the same price range will be similar in specs ... If you need greater width than 12 inches, say, you will be spending more. But if your just doing boxes or drawers, Rockler is your man!!
v t y
Colin
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- Colin S on Aug 9, 2017
- Purchased on Aug 12, 2015
Will this work with a Ryobi re180pl1g, it is a 1/2" collet?
BEST ANSWER: all routers that are Plunge and have a base (bit opening of 1 and 1/4 ") that will allow for the 7/16 guide bushing works. The kit includes a reducer that fits the 1/2 collet.
For first timers, the instructions aren't the greatest, so plan of setting aside several "test: boards.
For first timers, the instructions aren't the greatest, so plan of setting aside several "test: boards.
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- Barry D on May 16, 2017
- Purchased on Jun 7, 2015
How thick of stock will it accept?
I need the lock nut under the fence lock knob. I lost one. What is the size/dimensions? Can I order one somewhere?
BEST ANSWER: Please contact Rockler Technical Service at 800-260-9663.
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- David Staff on Mar 5, 2018
I have a Rockler dovetail jig and want to make box joints do I need a special template to cut these or will the dovetail template that came with the jig work?
BEST ANSWER: I believe that you only need the dovetail template to create box joints. It should say in the instruction manual you receive with the jig. If not there are great YouTube videos sponsored by rockler that are extremely helpful. “Dovetail jig (rockler)”
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- Dusty H on Nov 26, 2017
- Purchased on Nov 27, 2015
I have a Triton 3HP router, will this jig work with it?
BEST ANSWER: Your router base will have to be compatible with Porter Cable style bushing to use it with this dovetail jig. For this router you would need an adapter to reduce the 3" opening at the routers base
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- Inaccurate
- Rick H Staff on Oct 12, 2017
Is the stop adjustable?
BEST ANSWER: Do not know as I have not had the chance to use my dovetail jig as of yet.
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- raymond I on Jul 25, 2017
- Purchased on Aug 6, 2015
Can you use a 1/4 dovetail bit installed in a hand-held DeWalt router?
This comment refers to the 5/16" reducer supplied by Rockler with this jig which you slide over the bit shank to fit into a 1/2" chuck, which I'll call a sleeve . Has anyone else ever had that sleeve get jammed into the tapered bottom of their router? I have been unable to remove the sleeve or the collet. The collet seems to have been jammed against the upper walls of the chamber because of the outward pressure of the sleeve. If you know anything about this, or know anyone who has had this problem, please let me know.? OR if anyone has a suggestion about how to free it up, I'd really appreciate it. I'm routerless!!!
BEST ANSWER: not sure of the part #, but there is an inexpensive collet reducer with a lip on the end to keep it from jamming. Web search
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- Richard B on Oct 20, 2017
I use a Makita RP2301FC router. I have set up the jig as explained for the through dovetails. When I cut the tail boards, the bit does not seem to be long enough and it does not properly cut the edge of the board; it leaves a slightly rounded edge instead of a consistently straight edge. I did not expect to trim the joint with a chisel to make if fit the pin board. The board is 3/4" thick stock. What might I be doing wrong?
BEST ANSWER: Sorry, I purchased my dovetail jig a year ago and have only used it on 5/8 stock. I have no experience with 3/4 stock. I can tell you that even with the 5/8 stock, there was a ton of scraps and trial and error ( mostly error) until I got it right. I can only suggest extending the bit a little out of the chuck in your router.
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- Ted F on Jun 6, 2016
- Purchased on Mar 19, 2015
i have a Black and Decker 1/4 router. will this work with the dovetail jig?
BEST ANSWER: The bit has 8mm shank and has a collet that makes it fit in a 1/2" router. Also, you need to be able to mount the collar for following the template so I'd have to say that your router will not work. Sorry.
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- MICHAEL P on Apr 27, 2016
- Purchased on Feb 24, 2015
Is this jig compatable with the Skil router
BEST ANSWER: I have used it with both my skill router and my porter-cable router. It's pretty user friendly
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- Inaccurate
- Stephen R on Feb 16, 2016
- Purchased on Apr 3, 2015
How is this jig compared to the porter-cable jig?
(They look similar but I think the porter-cable seams a bit more stable. Would love to compare side by side.)
(They look similar but I think the porter-cable seams a bit more stable. Would love to compare side by side.)
BEST ANSWER: I've never used the porter cable one but I have made 12 large drawers with this one and it worked very well. It took some time to set up but it wasn't complicated, once set, I worked easily every time.
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- MICHAEL P on Feb 3, 2016
- Purchased on Feb 24, 2015
I see the jig comes with a straight bit dose it do box joints too?
BEST ANSWER: While I've only used the 1/2 blind dovetail feature to date, it seems the manual covers box joints in detail.
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- ken r on Oct 28, 2015
- Purchased on Feb 21, 2015
What about when the sides and front are different thickness?
BEST ANSWER: It should be fine. In general, you set the different jig limits based on the size of the stock.
For half-blind, you're setting the limit of the router movement based on the thickness of the side. The bit depth just needs to be less than the front thickness, and altered to adjust proper fit when assembled. Although, with this kit, you're limited on the bit's travel because of the bushing. So there's a minimum thickness for half-blind dovetails.
For through dovetails, you use two different bits and set the various cuts based on the different thickness of material. So when you cut the front, you use the side as the depth guide. When you cut the side, you use the front as the depth guide.
As always, just use some scraps of the same material (or at least the same thickness) to get your setup dialed in, and then proceed to start your project.
For half-blind, you're setting the limit of the router movement based on the thickness of the side. The bit depth just needs to be less than the front thickness, and altered to adjust proper fit when assembled. Although, with this kit, you're limited on the bit's travel because of the bushing. So there's a minimum thickness for half-blind dovetails.
For through dovetails, you use two different bits and set the various cuts based on the different thickness of material. So when you cut the front, you use the side as the depth guide. When you cut the side, you use the front as the depth guide.
As always, just use some scraps of the same material (or at least the same thickness) to get your setup dialed in, and then proceed to start your project.
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- Inaccurate
- JOSHUA K on Oct 9, 2015
- Purchased on Feb 21, 2015
I'm brand new to using a dovetail jig, all the examples and videos that I see show a small board that will fit in the jig, my project will require a 28" board. How is that handled?
Thanks
MW
Thanks
MW
BEST ANSWER: If you are talking about a 28" wide board?You would need a jig that accepts that wide of a board...Have a Great Day
- Reply(3)
- Inaccurate
- Mary F on Aug 14, 2015
- Purchased on Feb 2, 2015
where on the web are detailed instruction videos?
BEST ANSWER: Go to Youtube and enter "Rockler complete dovetail jig" in the search box. There are several videos some from Rockler, some from other woodworkers. A really nice video using this type of jig is by Allen Little at Ask Woodman . Be careful, wear your safety gear and good luck.
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- Inaccurate
- Gary D on Jun 19, 2015
- Purchased on Mar 15, 2015
I own several brands of dovetail jigs. Purchased this one because of the dust collection. Cannot make the 1/2 blind dovetails fit. The pins simply don't fit in the tails. Have set up the jig several times and cut numerous test boards with all different hgt adjustments from the recommended 9/16" down to 17/32" in .005" increments with absolutely the same result. The others work fine and I have set them up countless times with no issues. The good news is that the dust collection works great, the bad news is the jig is unusable as is. Any ideas?
What would I need to make this work with a festool 1010 router?
Reviews
4.0 / 5.0
179 Reviews
Rockler Dovetail Jig
Have made several different pieces of furniture for our grandkids, bar cabinets and more. This jig works well. Need to pay attention so you don't get two left or two right sides. Can't blame that on the jig. Easy to use, good instructions.
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Dovetail jig
It works great just follow the instructions
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Great jig, directions not so much.
This jig is awesome, and coupled with the optional distinctive templates you can get some really cool looking dovetails that look almost hand cut. My only complaint is that the directions could have been better and Rockler put out promo videos but no directional videos. That being said, after a few trial runs you can get the swing of it pretty quick.
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One of the best woodworking investments I have made
This Jig is one of the best investment I made. I made a couple dovetail jigs for my table saw but could not get the snug fit I wanted. With the Rockler Dovetail Jig my joint fits are perfect. Plus it's so easy to use. Setup and operating directions are easy to follow.
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Happy Handyman Here!
I'd heard that there's a learning curve to doing dovetails with a jig. But, thanks to the excellent instruction sheet that came with my Rockler jig, it was relatively easy! I'm super pleased - it was an excellent investment!
Great results. Wasn't sure how this 1/2 in. Baltic Birch ply would behave but it came out great.
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Good product
Bought on sale at a good price. It's nice that everything is included to use this jig. Easy to use.
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Love it!!
This is the first time my husband and I attempted to make drawers. We confused our selves reading the directions the first time but after we got our heads on straight it was super easy. I made one mistake and put the pieces in wrong one time. I just wasent paying attentions. Wish we would have gotten this early
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Good addition to my shop, works very well.
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