Create a review for a woodworking tool that you are familiar with (Shopsmith brand or Non-Shopsmith) or just post your opinion on a specific tool. Head to head comparisons welcome too.
Needing to do a few through dovetails on an upcoming project I have been looking at the Keller System. At $269.00 for the 11/8" on center and $369.00 for the 2" on center jigs I decided to look at options. In the process I came across the MLSC jigs on sale for $89.00 for the pair. I'm thinking its too cheap to be any good. But they work basically the same way using guide bushings instead of bearings on the router bits themselves so I ordered them.
Now here is what you get. Both large and small templates with 1 guide bushing ( I ordered an extra so I could set up 2 routers ) 3/8 straight bit and 14 degree dovetail bit. Better than me try to explain set up just watch this video online. http://www.mlcswoodworking.com/shopsite ... iljig.html
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The only hiccup in the whole process was that the item #'s on the jigs did not match the ones in the 2 page instructions. It wasn't a problem after watching the video I new the smaller jig needed to be set at 3/4 inch off set. I used a piece of mdf to gage with and here are my results.
I didn't even have to tweak the set up!
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I don't think you could get better results at any price.
This is the comparison of the 2 jigs. Ill set the larger one up later.
I purchased the similar porter cable jigs for a good deal lower price about three years ago. I use them frequently. I find them simple to set up and highly accurate. One one complaint at the time I purchased had to do with the instructions. I was fortunate that I found a magazine article that offered a couple of tips and a book about making boxes that removed the mystery. I believe you will like the jigs very much. My favorite part is when someone looks at a drawer or box I have made and comments they can't believe I had patience to create such great joints. fjimp
F. Jim Parks
Lakewood, Colorado:)
When the love of power is replaced by the power of love the world will have a chance for survival.
I too have purchased the MLCS jigs and have found them to be very well worth the money. In fact, I have purchased a number of items from them and have yet to be disappointed with customer service and the quality of their products.
