Pocket Hole Jig!

[Podunkfla]

Which technique is more preferred, Kreg pocket hole joiner, or biscuit joiner?
I have a HF biscuit joiner (was gettin' ready for a TD build), but only used it one time. Many people praise the Kreg system, and seems like it makes a strong assembly.

Would the biscuit joiner method provide strength also? After drilling the holes, do you fill it in to make it look purdy, or do you just leave it as is?

The Kreg jig makes very strong joints. I think it still makes sense to use PVA glue too... I always do. I've been using it for more than 5 years now... Prolly built a dozen kitchens and a bunch of other things with it. As for strength compared to biscuit joints? It's a lot stronger... maybe 2 or 3 times the strength! Biscuit joints are good for alighning boards glued up into panels and attaching face frames on cabinets and a few other things. But, pocket screws are much faster and easier. Rockler (and others) sell nice plugs in popular hardwoods like oak & cherry that work very well. When sanded flush they are almost invisable... they are usually on the inside anyway. I do use it for cabinet grade plywood with no problems, but I rely on the Titebond II to really do the holding. JUst a view from a long time user.

[jp03]

The metal has more strength too! I am considering the overkill method of pocket screws and side 90 degree clamps. (glueing included)

[Gambam]

Here is a link to it on Amazon - Free shipping.

http://www.amazon.com/Kreg-K3MS-Master- ... 976&sr=8-1

[Joanne]

Which technique is more preferred, Kreg pocket hole joiner, or biscuit joiner?
I have a HF biscuit joiner (was gettin' ready for a TD build), but only used it one time. Many people praise the Kreg system, and seems like it makes a strong assembly.

Would the biscuit joiner method provide strength also? After drilling the holes, do you fill it in to make it look purdy, or do you just leave it as is?

Hi Cliff,

I can see uses for both tools. The biscuit joiner makes nice clean joints that are stronger than a butt joint by itself. If you have a visible joint that doesn't require the extra strength, then the biscuit joint is a good choice.

As everyone has pointed out, the pocket screw joints are significantly stronger, but at the cost of visual esthetics. It really comes down to evaluating the requirements of the specific joint and using the appropriate tool. I primarily used pocket joints in my build but I did have a couple of occasions when the biscuits were needed.

Joanne

[cuyeda]

Joanne, and et al,

I have been slowly acquiring various tools with respect to actually building a TD someday. Amongst the equipment that I already own, these are newly acquired: jigsaw, tablesaw, mig welder, dado blade, biscuit joiner, grinder, dove tail jig, etc... Oh, and Steve Fredericks build manual.

The TD is near the bottom of the project list at the moment. The next project will be building a few cabinets, workbenches and mobile tool carts to help me get organized. I have to find new space in the garage somehow. I just finished the 15' vintage trailer... next 65' Mustang, 22' vintage trailer, 58' Ranchero, and then it will be Teardrop time!

I will add the Kreg pocket tool before the sale ends.

[rbeemer]

Joanne, and et al,

I have been slowly acquiring various tools with respect to actually building a TD someday. Amongst the equipment that I already own, these are newly acquired: jigsaw, tablesaw, mig welder, dado blade, biscuit joiner, grinder, dove tail jig, etc... Oh, and Steve Fredericks build manual.

The TD is near the bottom of the project list at the moment. The next project will be building a few cabinets, workbenches and mobile tool carts to help me get organized. I have to find new space in the garage somehow. I just finished the 15' vintage trailer... next 65' Mustang, 22' vintage trailer, 58' Ranchero, and then it will be Teardrop time!

I will add the Kreg pocket tool before the sale ends.

Cliff,
You can use the Kreg and bisuit jointer on the cabinets as practice before starting your teardrop. THe kreg does make building cabinets alot easier

[KampinOut]

Sounds like a deal!

[AmyH]

I have been using that Kreg pocket hole jig for a ton of the work on my tear, and I absolutely love it!! The bulkheads went together so quickly. To hide the holes, I simply cover the bulkhead frames with the plywood skins after they are installed, so no holes are visible.

I also put glue on all the joints, even though there is some squeeze-out.

[peggyearlchris]

I have both the biscuit joiner and the kreg pocket hole jig. I love them both. I'm using the pocket hole jig the most. Peg

[deputydogrick]

All my framing is done with pocket joints and titebond II. awsomely fast and strong. Got mine at lowes, cost about $50 to $60 bought some extra screws. set drill bit in my electric drill, and driver bit in my screw gun. Use a visegrip clamp and move. very accurate

[steve wolverton]

I just finished the 15' vintage trailer... next 65' Mustang, 22' vintage trailer, 58' Ranchero, and then it will be Teardrop time!

How do you find the time to enjoy camping with so many projects?

[ARKPAT]

deputydogrick Posted: Tue Sep 11, 2007 4:52 pm Post subject:

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All my framing is done with pocket joints and titebond II. awsomely fast and strong. Got mine at lowes, cost about $50 to $60 bought some extra screws. set drill bit in my electric drill, and driver bit in my screw gun. Use a visegrip clamp and move. very accurate

Same here. Use it on framing and cabinets. Works great.


Pat

[McTeardrops]

Use good glue with your pocket joints, as I've had some failures of the screws. Also be advised that you still need to use clamps to hold the joint flush and square, as things tend to move as the screws are tightened.

[SkipperSue]

Use good glue with your pocket joints, as I've had some failures of the screws. Also be advised that you still need to use clamps to hold the joint flush and square, as things tend to move as the screws are tightened.

Yep, what he said.

This TD project was the first time I ever used one, I'll never be without one now.

[eamarquardt]

I got mine at a garage sale for $12. A complet kit plus an extra small jig. I love garage saleing (treasure hunting).

Gus