Hi everybody, I'm looking for a recommendation on a good starting
pocket hole jig kit. I've looked up the different models that Kreg
offers, but I'm not sure how much I'd need to get started.

The smallest kit (for around $50) looks pretty bare - is there enough
here to start off with, and is it upgradeable?

The next size kit (around $80) looks like it's got everything you'd
need to get started - any reason why this would not be a good place to
start?

The master kit gets pretty pricey - is it really worth spending that
much?

Any opinions/thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Mike

Mike,

We have been using the $50.00 kit for a year now and will eventually upgrade
to the master kit. The $50.00 kit has been great.

cm

www.vintagetrailersforsale.com


"Mike" wrote in message
ups.com...
Hi everybody, I'm looking for a recommendation on a good starting
pocket hole jig kit. I've looked up the different models that Kreg
offers, but I'm not sure how much I'd need to get started.

The smallest kit (for around $50) looks pretty bare - is there enough
here to start off with, and is it upgradeable?

The next size kit (around $80) looks like it's got everything you'd
need to get started - any reason why this would not be a good place to
start?

The master kit gets pretty pricey - is it really worth spending that
much?

Any opinions/thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Mike

Ok.. I don't know which kits you are talking about.. But I think the
best one is this:
http://www.kregtool.com/products/pht...?PRODUCT_ID=66
The "pocket jig" is kind of a PITA to use. The jig shown lets you put
your face frame pieces in vertically and go, no fuss, and very fast.


Mike wrote:
Hi everybody, I'm looking for a recommendation on a good starting
pocket hole jig kit. I've looked up the different models that Kreg
offers, but I'm not sure how much I'd need to get started.

The smallest kit (for around $50) looks pretty bare - is there enough
here to start off with, and is it upgradeable?

The next size kit (around $80) looks like it's got everything you'd
need to get started - any reason why this would not be a good place to
start?

The master kit gets pretty pricey - is it really worth spending that
much?

Any opinions/thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Mike

I assume you meant the Rocket jig. Yes, it is a bit of a pain if you're
doing a lot of holes but I have built a lot of things with it. I'm about to
buy this http://www.kregtool.com/products/pht...?PRODUCT_ID=10 .
It is a bit higher priced but has the features to make it worth it. I also
have the mini jig. Quite handy for odd spots.

"bf" wrote in message
ps.com...
Ok.. I don't know which kits you are talking about.. But I think the
best one is this:
http://www.kregtool.com/products/pht...?PRODUCT_ID=66
The "pocket jig" is kind of a PITA to use. The jig shown lets you put
your face frame pieces in vertically and go, no fuss, and very fast.

I have a adjustable dual type that clamp down as well as a single. The Dual
one is made of aluminum and the single is plastic with a metal insert. They
togather were about $50. USD I think I got them at western tool I may be
wrong about the store since they were actually gifts but I am sure that is
where she got them. I do remember the price tag though shared bank accounts
show things..

Al



"Mike" wrote in message
ups.com...
Hi everybody, I'm looking for a recommendation on a good starting
pocket hole jig kit. I've looked up the different models that Kreg
offers, but I'm not sure how much I'd need to get started.

The smallest kit (for around $50) looks pretty bare - is there enough
here to start off with, and is it upgradeable?

The next size kit (around $80) looks like it's got everything you'd
need to get started - any reason why this would not be a good place to
start?

The master kit gets pretty pricey - is it really worth spending that
much?

Any opinions/thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Mike

Hi everybody, I'm looking for a recommendation on a good starting
pocket hole jig kit. I've looked up the different models that Kreg
offers, but I'm not sure how much I'd need to get started.

I have the Rocket kit (usually about $50) and it's definitely enough to
start with. If you plan to use primarily pocket-hole construction for
everything you build, you might want to think about one of the better
kits, but the Rocket is definitely a great introduction, and in my
opinion wouldn't be money wasted if you later upgrade to a more
complete kit. It wouldn't hurt to have one in your traveling kit, to
loan out, for parts, etc.
You might check Amazon - last time I checked, they had a decent rebate
deal + free shipping on Kreg stuff.
Good luck,
Andy

On Dec 3, 9:57 pm, "Mike" wrote:
Hi everybody, I'm looking for a recommendation on a good starting
pocket hole jig kit. I've looked up the different models that Kreg
offers, but I'm not sure how much I'd need to get started.

The smallest kit (for around $50) looks pretty bare - is there enough
here to start off with, and is it upgradeable?

The next size kit (around $80) looks like it's got everything you'd
need to get started - any reason why this would not be a good place to
start?

The master kit gets pretty pricey - is it really worth spending that
much?

Any opinions/thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Mike

My personal experience is that the more convenient the tool is, the
more likely you are to go to it. Simple issues like the chaff these
things create, make the vacuum attachment almost a must... for me
anyway. Then there is the speed by which the clamp operates, the
assortment of screws and the case it all fits in. The Master is
certainly worth the money.
The question remains how much you are going to use it.

Besides. it's Christmas. You wife might like one?

r

Any opinions/thoughts would be appreciated.

Here are some reviews of the higher priced Kreg Kits (well worth the $$ in
my opinion):

http://www.onlinetoolreviews.com/reviews/kregk2000.htm
http://www.onlinetoolreviews.com/reviews/kregk3.htm

--
Regards,

Dean Bielanowski
Editor, OnlineToolReviews.com
http://www.onlinetoolreviews.com
Over 110+ woodworking product reviews online!
-----------------------------------------------
Latest 6 Reviews:
- Nova Cole Jaws
- The Dust Picker!
- Leigh D1600 Dovetail Jig
- Wagner MMC220 Moisture Meter
- PowerTwist Link Belts
- Ryobi "LiveTool" Range
=========================

On 3 Dec 2006 18:57:22 -0800, "Mike" wrote:

Hi everybody, I'm looking for a recommendation on a good starting
pocket hole jig kit. I've looked up the different models that Kreg
offers, but I'm not sure how much I'd need to get started.

The smallest kit (for around $50) looks pretty bare - is there enough
here to start off with, and is it upgradeable?

The next size kit (around $80) looks like it's got everything you'd
need to get started - any reason why this would not be a good place to
start?

The master kit gets pretty pricey - is it really worth spending that
much?

Any opinions/thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Mike

I bought the Master set and am quite pleased with it.

Robatoy wrote:
My personal experience is that the more convenient the tool is, the
more likely you are to go to it.

This applies exponentially to workshop setup. The amount of faffing
around that's required to use the right tool to complete an operation is
proportional to the temptation to do it the wrong way, messing up the
work or creating a safety hazard.

That's why I always bow to those who do accomplish much in very
undesirable settings.

Mike,
Under the 'FWIW' banner, and from the 'answers' I've read, here's my input
for somebody who has *never* before used the 'Pocket Hole' technique . . .

The 'technique' has been around for a long time. It is only relatively
recently that commercial jigs & special drill bits have made it 'consistent
and marketing made it highly visible.

To me, the justification for an expensive 'kit' is how much use it will get.
I started off with a $10.oo adjustable 'two-hole' jig. A '2-step' bit came
from MLCS for about $3.oo. A 'set' of 'Big Foot' Vice-Grip type clamps from
Harbor Freight were already at hand, plus many, many other clamps! I used it
assemble 3 'Memorial Flag Cases'. Later, I got a small Kreg 'Single Hole'
jig for $10 because it *might* come in handy in close quarters. I haven't
used it yet.

Bearing in mind that I don't build furniture, or cases, or 'face-frames',
the $13 'kit' was good enough for what I needed. The 'special' screws are
available from many sources. My choice is Stainless Steel. Plus, if your bit
has a 'pointed' rather than 'flat' rebate, even those are not necessary.
{Yes - I know you can split the wood, but that's why today's drills have a
clutch. On a decently made joint, 'snug' is really all that's needed.}

Obviously, your requirements may be much different. If nothing else, this
'route' will give you a good learning tool before a significant investment.

Regards & Good Luck,
Ron Magen
Backyard Boatshop





"Mike" wrote in message
ups.com...
Hi everybody, I'm looking for a recommendation on a good starting
pocket hole jig kit. I've looked up the different models that Kreg
offers, but I'm not sure how much I'd need to get started.

The smallest kit (for around $50) looks pretty bare - is there enough
here to start off with, and is it upgradeable?

The next size kit (around $80) looks like it's got everything you'd
need to get started - any reason why this would not be a good place to
start?

The master kit gets pretty pricey - is it really worth spending that
much?

Any opinions/thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Mike

"CW" wrote in message
nk.net...
I assume you meant the Rocket jig. Yes, it is a bit of a pain if you're
doing a lot of holes but I have built a lot of things with it. I'm about
to
buy this http://www.kregtool.com/products/pht...?PRODUCT_ID=10 .
It is a bit higher priced but has the features to make it worth it. I also
have the mini jig. Quite handy for odd spots.


You will like it. I have had it since last summer and more than anything I
like the "clutch" type grip the clamp has. When using construction grade
materials and the thickness varies the jig will automatically compensate
with out having to readjust clamping pressure.

On 3 Dec 2006 18:57:22 -0800, "Mike" wrote:

Hi everybody, I'm looking for a recommendation on a good starting
pocket hole jig kit. I've looked up the different models that Kreg
offers, but I'm not sure how much I'd need to get started.

The smallest kit (for around $50) looks pretty bare - is there enough
here to start off with, and is it upgradeable?

The next size kit (around $80) looks like it's got everything you'd
need to get started - any reason why this would not be a good place to
start?

The master kit gets pretty pricey - is it really worth spending that
much?

Any opinions/thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Mike


I started with the K2000 and absolutely love it. I think if you are
going to make a lot of face frames, it is worth it to get that
particular model. I mounted mine on a board, and clamp it to my
workbench when I'm ready to use it. When not in use it hangs on the
wall out of the way but set up and ready.

Frank

"Mike" wrote in message

The master kit gets pretty pricey - is it really worth spending that
much?

Depends upon how much you will be using it.

I've owned both the Kreg2000 and the Master kit (AAMOF, sold the 2000 to a
participant here a few months back).

The two reasons I made the upgrade:

- dust collection
- placement of the clamp handle

.... both of which save a good deal of time when doing repetitive tasks.

For the type of woodworking where I use pockethole technology (face frames
for kitchen cabinets), the time savings alone was enough to pay for the jig
on the first kitchen.

Other than that, any one of the Kreg options will serve you well.


--
www.e-woodshop.net
Last update: 10/29/06

Ron Magen wrote:

The 'technique' has been around for a long time. It is only relatively
recently that commercial jigs & special drill bits have made it 'consistent
and marketing made it highly visible.

I remember how surprised I was to discover them on a very old piece for
the first time.

Swingman wrote:

For the type of woodworking where I use pockethole technology (face frames
for kitchen cabinets), the time savings alone was enough to pay for the jig
on the first kitchen.

Pocket holes can greatly speed on-the-spot jig construction.

"B A R R Y" wrote in message
Swingman wrote:

For the type of woodworking where I use pockethole technology (face
frames
for kitchen cabinets), the time savings alone was enough to pay for the
jig
on the first kitchen.

Pocket holes can greatly speed on-the-spot jig construction.

So can a brad/pin nailer and some glue. G

--
www.e-woodshop.net
Last update: 10/29/06

On Dec 4, 11:02 am, B A R R Y wrote:
Swingman wrote:

For the type of woodworking where I use pockethole technology (face frames
for kitchen cabinets), the time savings alone was enough to pay for the jig
on the first kitchen.Pocket holes can greatly speed on-the-spot jig construction.

So you want fast on-the-spot jig fabrication? Doyou, do you, huh huh?
try this handy fella:
http://tinyurl.com/y25n9g

Swingman wrote:


So can a brad/pin nailer and some glue. G


I agree, and often do the same. However, let me know how it works out
if you want reconfigure the nailed & glued jig.

I wouldn't buy the tool specifically for jig making, but having one, I'm
a proponent of "all available resources."

Robatoy wrote:

So you want fast on-the-spot jig fabrication? Doyou, do you, huh huh?
try this handy fella:
http://tinyurl.com/y25n9g


Nice!

On Dec 4, 11:24 am, "Robatoy" wrote:

try this handy fella:http://tinyurl.com/y25n9g

PS... I never tried this one, but I do have the Paslode version and use
it a lot.
The Paslode is almost 3 times the money...but that's all there was when
I bought it. ( Butt joining countertop particleboard.)

On Dec 4, 11:28 am, B A R R Y wrote:
Robatoy wrote:

So you want fast on-the-spot jig fabrication? Doyou, do you, huh huh?
try this handy fella:
http://tinyurl.com/y25n9gNice!

The corrugations are tapered slightly, so when the fastener enters the
wood, it pulls both pieces together...to the point where glue has
squirted out high enough to hit my glasses.
You won't be using it overhead, cuz that mofo has some kick to it.

r

"B A R R Y" wrote in message
Swingman wrote:


So can a brad/pin nailer and some glue. G


I agree, and often do the same. However, let me know how it works out
if you want reconfigure the nailed & glued jig.

MDF is REAL cheap hereabouts! G

I wouldn't buy the tool specifically for jig making, but having one, I'm
a proponent of "all available resources."

Actually, I agree with you 1000% ... just doing a little chain tugging
whilst throwing a ball back (for the hundredth time) to my 19 month old
grandson, who will be leaving to go back to England in the morning [ ],
so in need of the diversion you so generously provided.

Thanks!

--
www.e-woodshop.net
Last update: 10/29/06

An investment in any of the Kreg kits is worthwhile. I have been using
pocket holes for years since the jigs became popular and the common
denominator is: get a good plug in drill. I work primarily with hardwoods -
oak - ash - etc. and a good electric drill will go a long way with making
pocket holes.

-john

"Mike" wrote in message
ups.com...
Hi everybody, I'm looking for a recommendation on a good starting
pocket hole jig kit. I've looked up the different models that Kreg
offers, but I'm not sure how much I'd need to get started.

The smallest kit (for around $50) looks pretty bare - is there enough
here to start off with, and is it upgradeable?

The next size kit (around $80) looks like it's got everything you'd
need to get started - any reason why this would not be a good place to
start?

The master kit gets pretty pricey - is it really worth spending that
much?

Any opinions/thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Mike

"Mike" wrote in message
ups.com...
Hi everybody, I'm looking for a recommendation on a good starting
pocket hole jig kit. I've looked up the different models that Kreg
offers, but I'm not sure how much I'd need to get started.

I have a Kreg and like it, but if I didn't have one I'd consider one of
these.
http://www.mailwareweb.com/sommerfel...ppj1&d=116&b=2
($140 in the catalog, $90 on the web page.)
http://www.mailwareweb.com/sommerfel...ppj2&d=116&b=2
($75 in the catalog, $60 on the web page.)

(Sommerfeld home page http://www.sommerfeldtools.com/
No affiliation etc.)

The difference from my Kreg is you can adjust the height, making it easier
to handle different widths.

-- Mark

Save some money and go spend some time browsing eBay. You will find
what you need for less $$$

http://cgi.ebay.com/Kreg-Pocket-Hole...QQcmdZViewItem



Mike wrote:

Hi everybody, I'm looking for a recommendation on a good starting
pocket hole jig kit. I've looked up the different models that Kreg
offers, but I'm not sure how much I'd need to get started.

The smallest kit (for around $50) looks pretty bare - is there enough
here to start off with, and is it upgradeable?

The next size kit (around $80) looks like it's got everything you'd
need to get started - any reason why this would not be a good place to
start?

The master kit gets pretty pricey - is it really worth spending that
much?

Any opinions/thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Mike