I have an Incra Pro - I know, it's old but at least I have it, lol. I
am learning the dovetail cuts but can't get past the test cuts. When I
cut two test boards and turn them around to fit them together (to check
depth of cut) I can't get them together - the fit is so tight I have to
bang the heck out of em to get them together. I've tried both lowering
and raising the bit but still the same problem. Anyone have any
suggestions??

Thanks

"GVJeeper" wrote in message
oups.com...
I have an Incra Pro - I know, it's old but at least I have it, lol. I
am learning the dovetail cuts but can't get past the test cuts. When I
cut two test boards and turn them around to fit them together (to check
depth of cut) I can't get them together - the fit is so tight I have to
bang the heck out of em to get them together. I've tried both lowering
and raising the bit but still the same problem. Anyone have any
suggestions??

If cutting Blind DT's
I have never used that jig but with the "regular" style DT jig the proper
fit is controlled by the depth of cut. Every bit has its own unique sweet
spot and once found that depth should always be used for that bit. Remember
to make slight adjustments and NEVER try to recut DT's. If the joint is too
tight, start with 2 new scraps and cut shallower in both pieces. If the fit
is too loose, start with 2 new scraps and cut deeper. DO NOT mix pieces
that have been cut at different depths.

GVJeeper,

I cut some half-blind dovetails a couple of weeks ago and as I was
testing the fit on scraps they were loose (so I needed to lower my bit
more). I was making minor adjustments a bit at a time, but it wasn't
looking like it was making a difference. I was running short on the
scrap in the thickness I had already milled so I went for it and
lowered the bit quite a bit (almost 1/4" I believe, can't remember now,
I only remember thinking that it was quite a bit) and sure enough
that's what I needed -- I had started way too shallow and I couldn't
tell that I was improving the fit but too slight to notice.

Just a suggestion.

Good luck,
Mike

I guess I just didn't keep tweeking it enough. Thanks for the help -
I'll give it another try tomorrow.