Leigh - Box Joint and Beehive Jig B975 (Rating: 5)

This style of freestanding template jig has been around for a long time, but this one focuses on box joints. You can make 1/2" or 3/4" box joints, and the kit comes with just about everything you need. Just add an MDF fence, and you're off to the races.

Chuck the included router bit in your router, and install the eBush, then rout your first workpiece. Then flip the little green tab and rout the mating workpiece. The offset is automatic!

I started with the eBush set at "5", and made one minor adjustment to "4.5" and the joints have fit perfectly ever since. Compared to a tablesaw based box joint jig, the beehive jig benefits from almost no tearout. The Leigh bit is extremely sharp and well made, and the MDF fence prevents any tearout on the back.

I have 4 or 5 other router-based box joint jigs, as well as a tablesaw based jig. I will say this is the easiest to setup and produce snug-fitting joints. Plus it comes at a much lower price point than some of my other jigs. The one negative point is there is no dust collection available. If you're willing to let the chips fly, this jig really does the trick.