I love my Kreg Pocket Hole jig, but my favorite is the newest K5. If you enjoy DIY woodworking, a pocket hole jig is something that you should really consider. It makes it easy to make strong connections without needing a lot of specialty equipment. Also, the screws themselves act as a clamp, drawing the butt joints together. You don’t get that benefit from biscuits or dowels.
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Kreg Pocket Hole Jig…
So which one to buy…… Well, the Kreg pocket hole system comes in many different packages, ranging from just the basics all the way to the complete systems. If your on a really tight budget, then the Mini Kreg Jig* is probably what you will want. Keep in mind that it only allows for one pocket hole to be drilled at a time. You will also need a clamp for this one, which does not come with it. However, the price is nice at around $20.
However, if you can swing it, I would suggest moving up to the Kreg R3 Jr*. It allows for double pocket holes to be drilled with each placement. It also comes with a drive bit, a selection of screws to get started with, and a clamp pad. As with the Mini Kreg, you will still need to provide a clamp*, but I believe that this is a better deal for around $40.
The next level up would be the K4* coming it just under $100. It is by far the best value; however, I have built plenty with just the R3 Jr. All three systems can be purchased at just about any of the big box hardware stores or at Amazon.*
Kreg Pocket Hole Jig – R3…
I wanted to provide a demonstration on one of these, and since I feel that most beginners would be inclined to purchase the R3*. So, that is the one I will use.
If you look inside the kit, you will notice that the drill bit has numbers next to it. This is to adjust the collar for the right thickness of wood. Here I have it set for 1/2″. As you can see, the top edge of the collar is lined up with the mark for 1/2.”
The guide also has numbers on the bottom. Line the arrows up with the thickness as well. Again, I have it set to 1/2″
Kreg Pocket Hole Jig R3 – Demonstration…
To use the R3, attach the clamp* through the clamp housing, align with wood edge and clamp down to table.
Next, drill through the pocket hole guides. Make sure to go all the way until the collar meets the guide.
You should now have two perfectly drilled pocket holes.
Clamp the two joining pieces of wood down, and drive the pocket hole screws through the holes using the bit that is provided with the kit.
Tip – Make sure to use the correct length and type of pocket hole screws. A fine thread is for hardwoods, and the course thread screws are for soft.
Final Thoughts…
As I said at the beginning, I love the K5 the best. At the time of this writing, the K5 is not yet available to the public. (Update: You can now purchase the new K5 at your local hardware store or through the Kreg website).
This is just a sample of the Kreg line of pocket hole systems. If you have used and/or prefer one of the others, I would love to hear your comments.
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