Kreg Pocket Hole Jigs are incredibly versatile and advantageous in any workroom. I would not have been able to complete most of the structures I built by myself without assistance, and the first thing I grab when I want to join two pieces of wood without any outwardly visible screws is the tool.
Making pocket holes is a kind of woodworking proficiency that might look rather complex, yet it is not. It gives off an impression of being a skill acquired by professionals, yet it is relatively fast and effortless. I’m going to give you all the information you may ever need to understand the use of a Kreg pocket hole jig. Once you get to the finish of this article, you will be totally ready to start making pocket holes on your own!
What Is a Kreg Pocket Hole Jig?
A Kreg Pocket Hole Jig is an instrument used to make pocket holes.
What, you want a more detailed explanation than that? Okay, let’s dig a little deeper.
What’s a jig?
“Jig” is a term in woodworking referring to a tool or device that allows one to easily replicate a specific process multiple times. Jigs can be utilized for a variety of precise functions, like keeping the wood steady as you drill into it, shepherding the wood via a table saw, being a point of reference to help determine regular sections and beyond. This phrase is used to refer to any device which assists in keeping pieces of wood in one place while completing a repetitive task.
What are pocket holes?
Right, so we understand what a jig is, but can someone explain what pocket holes are? What are those?
Pocket hole joining is a process utilized in woodworking for constructing joints. A hole is drilled at a 15-degree angle into one piece of wood and then a pocket hole screw is driven through the hole and into the other wood. Pocket holes are highly resistant and dependable joints, making them ideal for amateur woodworkers to attempt as they are straightforward to craft and offer an expert and refined outcome.
When and why should I use pocket holes?
Pocket holes can be employed whenever it is necessary to connect two boards and you wish the screw head to not show.
Making a pocket hole joint is very simple and is perfect for those just starting out, plus they are really strong with just two inexpensive tools: a pocket hole jig and a drill!
Pocket holes are an excellent option for just about any type of construction project.
What about the downsides?
These jigs produce openings that need to be filled up or kept out of sight. This generally isn’t an issue, yet it could be unsatisfactory for woodworkers who place a high importance on how their joints appear.
Pocket holes are not appropriate for all woodworking jobs. If you take a look around, you can observe some people who are doing crafts themselves utilizing wood without properly understanding the changes it goes through over time.
Issues arise for the consumer to tackle in the long run, in a matter of months or potentially even weeks.
Understand the circumstances in which pocket holes should NOT be used before commencing your project.
I’ve been bombarded with questions asking why woodworking jobs can fall short, break, or damage. The solution can often be found in improperly employing a pocket hole jig.
When used correctly, these are amazing tools. I cannot emphasize strongly enough how important it is for you to be wary when implementing free plans or directions that you discovered on the internet.
Sometimes even paid plans are faulty. For novice learners, a good foundation can be established by clicking the links mentioned in the preceding paragraph.
How to Use a Pocket Hole Jig
Every jig has slightly different features for how it is going to be employed, but overall, they all share a few essential components.
- You must use the proper screw.
- You must set the jig to the proper width for the wood, and 3) you must set the stop collar before drilling.
Remember to take into consideration that lumber has two different dimensions – described and precise. You need to measure the exact amount of wood to use in your jig.
Which Kreg Jig Should I Buy?
The Kreg Pocket Hole Jigs come in varying sizes and shapes, satisfying virtually any type of needs. I want to focus on two options that are perfect for people just starting out. Please take a look at the descriptions provided and select the one you think will work best for you.
Kreg Pocket Hole Jig 720
Kreg’s 720 pocket hole jig has many functions that make it their most modern unit yet, with plenty of capabilities for improved productivity. At the same time as you hold your workpiece in place, this device can adapt to the depth of any material from 1/2″ to 1.5″, and it’s made with a non-skid surface to stop the wood from shifting while you’re working.
An attachment on the back allows the shop vacuum to be connected without difficulty. This will prevent sawdust from scattering in your area and save you trouble later on (this is very useful if you are drilling a large number of pocket holes!).
You can affix the 720 to a Docking Station to firmly keep the jig in place on your work surface, which will make drilling your pocket holes even easier.
This jig is ideal for those who are just starting out and are primarily doing smaller projects. It is very user-friendly and simple to use.
Kreg Pocket Hole Jig 520PRO
The 520 is an exceptionally useful jig and an outstanding choice! This piece of equipment has a handle that can be adjusted to almost any angle, and it comes with a clamp that can be adjusted depending on the size of the boards.
It is absolutely essential to have this jigsaw if you are dealing with big, unwieldy boards or pieces of plywood. This tool can be used in a variety of different orientations, so it’s an ideal tool for bigger jobs when it is not convenient to place the wood upright in the jig.
The 520 is capable of connecting with the Docking Station, allowing for a stronger setup.
The usefulness of this jig is perfect for a person working on many tasks who requires the ability to form pouch openings in bigger or more clunky substances!
Kreg Mini Jig
The Kreg Mini* is smaller than the other jigs. This makes it possible for the jig to be placed in areas where there is not much space, unlike other jigs.
This makes it be regarded as the “fixing” jig of their collection.
The cost of it makes it an inexpensive choice for those who are beginning their journey in woodworking.
If you are uncertain if a pocket hole jig would be of help to you, I would suggest giving this variation a try first.
Nevertheless, there are some areas where this tool is not satisfactory. The kit does not come with the necessary driver bit. This might cost you extra money if you do not have the right size bit.
Also, this jig requires a clamp. Any sort of clamp can be utilized, but if you opt to get the Kreg’s face clamp, it will cost you some extra money.
It doesn’t supply the in-built placement guard that is included with some of the other models.
The majority of other pocket hole jigs have fences and guides that you can customize according to the wood’s thinness, and the stop collar for the drilling can be adjusted too.
You have the authority to secure the thickness and the stop collar correctly with the mini jig prior to drilling the openings.
R3
The R3 is a definite upgrade from the mini-jig. Using this technique enables users to drill two pocket holes at once, saving time.
The package includes a bit driver, an array of screws, a clamp cushion, and a container.
This is the jig that I favor when I am constructing something with a lengthy plank of wood (for example, my platform bed).
It is nearly inconceivable to prop a tall lath up vertically in the jig with the higher priced editions. This version is perfect for this type of situation.
The R3 jig differs from the mini-jig in that it has a fence attached to it. Examining the lower portion of the jig, take note of the fence that gives direction as to where it should be adjusted in accordance to every wood size.
It isn’t as user-friendly as the K4/K5 in the majority of cases. It is more convenient to position oneself at the lumber for large and heavy pieces, rather than carrying the wood to where the jig is located.
Parts of a Kreg Jig
No matter what model of Kreg’s pocket hole jig is chosen, they all feature some common parts.
- A drill guide, on the jig itself
- A clamp that helps hold the wood in place (also attached to the jig)
- A material thickness gauge
- A drill bit to create the pocket hole
- A depth collar to set the depth for the pocket hole (more on this in a minute)
- A square driver bit to drive the screws into the pocket hole
In addition to the jigs, to create and use pocket holes you’ll also need:
- A drill
- Pocket hole screws
- Clamps
Steps For Joining Wood
Position the jig to the desirable thickness, then regulate the stop collar so that it drills to the correct depth. Most jigs come with an instruction manual to make using them simple.
Move the collar to the necessary level and secure the nut with the Allen key included.
To connect two pieces of plywood or firm wood, adjust the jig to the correct measurement for the thickness being employed. Make holes in the side of the two pieces being joined using a drill.
Position the components to be connected ensuring that they are forming right angles. Kreg has an efficient pocket hole clamp that can be utilized to attach pieces together at the holes, but it isn’t essential.
Put the right screw into every opening and, by employing the bit given, snugly fasten the screw only until it is secure. Avoid over-tightening as this can strip the wood.
Choosing the Screws
Pocket hole screws can be obtained in two assorted thread varieties, presented in three distinctive finishes, and come in a broad range of lengths. In order to identify the required screws, the first step is to consider what kind of environment the completed item should be able to withstand.
Screw Finishes
Kreg screws can be obtained in zinc, blue Kote, and stainless steel varieties.
Zinc screws are an ideal choice for indoor spots that have a low humidity level.
Stainless steel screws are designed for use in areas which are exposed to a lot of water or subject to corrosion.
The Kote screws that are blue are the most commonly picked out of all the possibilities. These objects have an anti-rust coating and can be used in both interior and exterior settings.
Screw Threads and Lengths
The course threads are for softwoods such as pine. Threads of a finer variety are suitable for denser woods like oak and maple.
Once you have worked out what kind of thread the screws should have, you need to work out how long they should be.
The manual provides information on the appropriate sizes, and after getting familiar with the jig, selecting the right screws will become instinctual.
For fast use, Keg offers a practical screw wheel that is for sale.
Filling Pocket Holes
If you place your pocket holes on the bottom or back of the item that you are creating, they won’t be visible and you won’t have to fill them in. Sometimes, one may prefer a more sleek and neat appearance and are not in a situation to keep the items where they can be out of sight.
In those scenarios, you should opt to fill them with plugs!
Kreg offers pocket hole plugs you can use to close up the hole and make it virtually undetectable. You have a variety of wood type options, so you can select the one that will best blend with your project!
Put some glue around the pocket hole plug, insert it, and wait for the adhesive to dry. After that, sand the area again and then carry out the usual process of staining or painting.
