I was just wondering if anyone has used this tool before. It is called a self centering doweling jig. Without taking a picture of it, I can tell you that H.F. Wilson Engineering Company makes it. They are located in illinois. But I just was seeing if you guys have ever used it and if you have do you know where you can buy them or do I have to order it off the internet. Right now I am borrowing somebodys but I want to buy one for myself. If you want to see a picture of it I can put one on here.
nate22
Self centering doweling jig
The self centering jig that I'm recalling is a well built device. It is wonderful of all your stock is exactly the same thickness.
If it isn't, the difference is translated into both sides of the joint-not necessarily bad, just true.
On other jigs, which register from one surface to a distance you select, you can insure all the difference is translated to one side. That can be a convenience under some circumstances.
That said, the latter ones are not as stout and dependable as the one I think you're describing.
You might try to call the factory and see if they'll tip you off about a store near you that has 'em. Otherwise, you're a click and pay kind of customer.
Kindly,
Lee
If it isn't, the difference is translated into both sides of the joint-not necessarily bad, just true.
On other jigs, which register from one surface to a distance you select, you can insure all the difference is translated to one side. That can be a convenience under some circumstances.
That said, the latter ones are not as stout and dependable as the one I think you're describing.
You might try to call the factory and see if they'll tip you off about a store near you that has 'em. Otherwise, you're a click and pay kind of customer.
Kindly,
Lee
I used similar jigs way back when I was in high school. The ones that I used, worked great. One problem I always experienced was a lack of space for your knuckles when tightening the "clamp". The demise of this tool was the biscuit jointer and biscuit, but I still like the doweling jig.
I use the self centering dowel jig… occasionally. It is pretty decent for some applications and face frames… but it is slow.
It is a very well made tool, however.
It is a very well made tool, however.
I have this one and it works well for me. Looks to be about the same as the one sold by H.F. Wilson, except the drill guides can't be removed.
http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=857&filter=centering%20jig
http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=857&filter=centering%20jig
I have the same one as Joe, and it works great for me. In fact, I use it on small tables to join the legs to the apron. I find it faster ans easier than mortise and tenon joints. Probably not quite as strong, but perfectly adequate for many applications.
thanks for the comments. It is a great tool, specially when I have 500 holes to drill, it beats drilling them free hand. And joe there is both there is one that the drill guides can be removed and one where the drill guides can't be removed. I will more and likely order one off the internet it works great for the beds that I make.
Be advised that self-centering dowelling jigs are often off a little and they often do not precisely hit the center. I try to always to align them the same way on both pieces of wood so if they are off a hair, no harm is done.
I have the same experience as Rich. I painted one edge of mine to permanently serve as the "outside" face. Good tool.
Yep Yep. I also use a Quick Grip clamp if one end of the jig is hanging off the end of the board to keep the jig from moving while I'm drilling.
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