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
Frequently Bought Together
Questions and Answers
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Browse 29 questions
Browse 29 questions
and 83 answers
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: Just a guess, but you may be making to large an adjustment. Exaggerated example: If you have a gap of 1/8" you only need a 1/16" adjustment. Obviously this is an extreme example but you get the idea. Hope this helps.
- Reply(1)
- Inaccurate
- Blake W. on Jul 23, 2017
- Purchased on Feb 3, 2015
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
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 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
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
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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- Inaccurate
- 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?
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?
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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- 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
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- 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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- Gary D on Jun 19, 2015
- Purchased on Mar 15, 2015
Why is it necessary to use the left side of the jig to do the joints on the left side of the box and the right hand side of the jig for the right hand joints (as per the instructions)? I have used the left side for all joints and it seems to work fine.
I have a Rockwell Model # 4682 Router. Will the adapter and bushing guide fit my 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!!!
I am trying to set up a drawer that is 1/2" thick by 11" wide. How do I position the side and front to cut a half blind dovetail and/or a through dovetail?Thank you in advance for the help.
Can I use router bit Nr. 21095 (with bearing) on this jig for half blind dovetails?
Reviews
4.0 / 5.0
170 Reviews
Great product, but I would make...
Great product, but I would make a change to make it easier to use. The handles on both the clamps get in the way when using the right side of the jig with some routers and when using larger 1x8 peices and must be unscrewed, removed after installing your material and before cutting. I would recommend using tapered pins instesd of the screws in the handles.
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May 10, 2011
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I have owned a smaller half...
I have owned a smaller half blind dovetail jig for a long time. It is hard to adjust and a little flimsy. The Rockler jig is definitely a big step up. I am thrilled with the new jig. As a note to the Bosch router people, Bosch router are odd ducks. Porter Cable created the standard for router bushings years ago. Bosch's German roots caused it to be produced with a European style bushing. When the dual base router kits came out a bunch of years ago, Bosch and Makita were highly rated. I think Bosch edged Makita out as first pick. Every review I read warned potential Bosch buyers that the standard PC bushing did not work in the Bosch. Using the Bosch router in many jigs would require the buyer purchase a relatively pricey Bosch only router bushing set. I think the dovetail jig loses about a half star to grumpy Bosch users. Perhaps, Rockler should warn purchasers of the incompatibility with Bosch routers. Perhaps Bosch owner should know their tools well enough to anticipate the added cost. Bosch is a great manufacturer, the added cost is just the cost of own a router you love.Editor's note: The Bosch 1617 router can easily be used with this jig by removing the sub base from the router base and replacing with the following: http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=25412
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July 22, 2011
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Don't even bother looking for a better dovetailing jig near this price. It works better than it should for the money. I got it in the mail, ran to the shop and read the instructions as I cut a through dovetail and then a half blind. Minor adjustments and I was pleasantly surprised. This jig is no toy. It works.
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June 13, 2011
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I guess I would consider myself...
I guess I would consider myself a woodworker with moderate skills and not that much experience. I bought the jig and hoped it wouldn't be too hard to get the joints right. It turned out to be very easy. I had to make 2 minor adjustments, then banged out the blind dovetail joints for some drawers and they came out perfect. It is a lot easier than I thought and would recommend the jig.
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April 24, 2011
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I owned a cheap half blind...
I owned a cheap half blind jig, but needed through tails for the cabinet project I was building. It was well packaged, nice jig, came with dust collector, and three router bits, and a special collet for 8 mm conversion from 1/2". 1. Directions: Excellent, I think my wife could do it and she doesn't know a router from a table saw. 2. Price: Where in the world are you going to find a jig this nice for this price?3. Quality: Heavy unit, well made, not sure on plastic template. I'm sure aluminum would raise the price, so the plastic works. Now a complete idiot might let the bit hit the template if he didn't read directions about small shim under top piece of work, but by the way, I am an idiot. 4. Bits: those are nice bits. I don't like 8mm, or the collet though. I ruined the bit after the first drawer, it was stuck and just would not come out. I tried everything, finally just grabbed it with vise grip and twisted it out. Oh by the way I am an idiot. I am sure it was me not the collet but I tried again on the straight bit, same problem. So I just use my other dovetail bits now. The collet was locked in the tight and the bit just wouldn't budge. Read the directions and you will love the jig.
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August 6, 2010
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WOW!!! It really works!
I purchased my jig back in April, along with the dust collection system, because they were on sale. At the time I had no project that called for dovetails so I just played with it and set it aside for whenever...Whenever arrived last week when I was asked by a friend to make a box for her son for Christmas. The box that she had seen was not dovetailed but this one will be. Anyway, after reading and rereading and rerereading the instructions I followed the instructions (Shocking!) and, using test boards, was able to cut through dovetails very quickly. Feeling emboldened, I then proceeded to cut the tails on the front and back of two boxes. Having cut the tails on box number one I pulled out another test panel to cut the pins. After the initial cut and then gradually adjusting the template, I had the pins cut with a really nice fit. I then did the first box and dashed into the house to show my wife. After a minimum of back patting I went back to my shop and did the second box for my friend. I got a slightly tighter fit this time and it, too, looks great. So, on my first attempt at dovetails ever, I have two great looking boxes. I know....They still don't have lids or bottoms but they really look great.
What I am trying to say is that this is a great product and, if you read and follow the instructions, you can add another fun dimension to your woodworking. Also, the dust collector picked up all, repeat, all of the dust!
Thank you, Rockler. I am a happy woodworker.
What I am trying to say is that this is a great product and, if you read and follow the instructions, you can add another fun dimension to your woodworking. Also, the dust collector picked up all, repeat, all of the dust!
Thank you, Rockler. I am a happy woodworker.
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It is an excellent product, but...
It is an excellent product, but I must be the only one that couldn't make a dovetail right out of the box. LOL ! After re-reading the instructions 15 more times I realized I was using the wrong bit and set up! HELLO ! Two more scrap pieces and I had a nice tight dovetail.I slipped with the router and will have to order a new jig; but that is okay; it's called learning.
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February 21, 2010
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This is the first dovetail jig...
This is the first dovetail jig I have used, so I read the instructions over and over carefully and tested my settings several times to get a perfect fit. I then used the jig on a 4 inch high drawer with perfect results. At that point I was quite happy and would have given this jig four stars. My second project was a dresser with three different size drawers and that’s where I discovered a huge design flaw in this jig. The most important adjustments for making perfect joints are the depth of your dovetail bit and the position of the stop bar. When you finally get both perfectly set, you don’t want to change them because even a tiny change means you have to re-test the entire setup. But that’s exactly what you must do when you change the height of the drawers you are making. The only way to adjust the “Stops” for the new board width is to move the stop bar out of the way that you have quite painstakingly adjusted to perfection. As you know, moving the stop bar even 1/64 inch will make or break your joint accuracy. So every time you change the size of the drawer, you have to start all over with the stop bar adjustments which includes making several test cuts. This is a HUGE design flaw. You should be able to adjust the “stops” without removing the stop bar. Another design flaw is the tiny little “Stops” that keep the boards aligned. They are very small and plastic and should be much longer and stronger. Another is the misaligned base supports which require that you add a half inch spacer to level the jig. /p>
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September 6, 2012
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I have to admit, I was...
I have to admit, I was a bit confused with the instructions that came with the dovetail jig mainly because I'm a novice at dovetails, but once I found the YouTube video, it all made sense. I immediately went out and started experimenting and on my first try, I succeeded in making an extremely tight joint. I am making six of the same pie boxes and last night I cut every one of the tails and the pins without having to adjust a thing. They all turned out tight and perfect. I was about to send the jig back until I found your video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMX2lpLVLqM That saved me and I really am impressed with this jig.
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December 6, 2010
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Lots of adjusting to get it right.
It took about 15 tries to get the unit setup for a "perfect" dovetail. I am happy with the results, but was frustrated with the process. The instructions are okay, but my unit had different tolerances using a Craftsman router so the calculations they give you are not accurate. I also had a faceplate slightly off center that caused issues. Make sure this is perfectly centered before any cutting as your cuts will be off by the fraction your router is off center. The dust collecter is a bit flimsy due to the thin plastic. I got it free so I was not really inclined to use it. However, after all the setup tries and all the dust, I decided to try it out. It works very well. You must be careful not to overtighten as it will deflect and possibly break, but there was no dust issue at all using my shop vac. My big frustration overall is that there is no "single-alignment" handling. Everything is adjusted from each side of the jig. Move one side and you must move the other to keep parallel. I have used colored Sharpies to mark the spots for the three different thicknesses of wood that I typically use. I still make test cuts and tweak, but at least I am very close when changing projects.
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February 28, 2016
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