5 Best Pocket Hole Jigs for Perfect Seamless Face Joints
Woodworking and DIY projects require proper tools that will create a quality end product. Despite the fact that there are many types of tools available for purchase, many would recommend the pocket hole jig.
This is a tool that has tons of benefits to offer, something that makes your projects easier and more efficient. But with the hundreds of models available on the market, which pocket hole jig performs the best? Well, we give you our top 5 picks on best pocket hole jigs to help you out.
5 Best Pocket Hole Jigs - Reviews
Image | Product Name | Rating | Current Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Kreg MKJKIT Mini Kreg Jig Kit | 4.7 | |
 | 2. Kreg R3 Pocket Hole Jig System | 4.7 | |
 | 3. Kreg Jig K4 Pocket Hole Jig System | 4.8 | |
 | 4. Kreg K5 Pocket Hole Jig | 4.8 | |
 | 5. General Tools 850 Pro Pocket Hole Jig | 4.1 |
#1. Kreg MKJKIT Mini Kreg Jig Kit
Editor's Rating: 
(4.7 / 5)
A limited budget should not hinder you from getting that flawless finish provided by pocket hole jig. This mini jig kit comes at a cheap price that won’t put a huge dent in your pocket. Being the smallest in Kreg pocket hole jig, MKJKIT fits easily in areas with small dimensions. This makes it a handy tool for working in tight corners.
At a glance, you’ll notice that this tool doesn’t have a fence. This fenceless design lets you make precise angle and stock depth adjustment, a feature that makes MKJKIT the most positionable in Kreg’s line of hole jigs. The jig works with unlimited material thickness ranging from 1/2 inch to 1-1/2 inches thick. Thanks to a wood-chip relief hole, this mini jig allows you to keep on drilling without having to stop to clean out the hole.
A plug-setting feature is included for the purpose of concealing and decoratively accenting the pocket holes. Precision is further guaranteed by hardened steel drill guides. The guides keep the bit from deflecting whenever it hits the workpiece. This mini pocket hole jig comes with an Allen wrench, 3/8-inch step drill and depth collar.
Pros
- Fits anywhere even in constricted areas
- Hassle-free positioning
- Extremely affordable - the cheapest in our top 5 list
- Short, clear and easy to follow instructions
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not efficient for full-time use since adjustments need to be made manually
Who Should Buy?
The compact size and low price makes this tool a perfect choice for a budget conscious craftsman who needs to drill holes in low volume, especially in tight areas. It is a valuable investment especially for part-time cabinet makers.
#2. Kreg R3 Pocket Hole Jig System
Editor's Rating: (4.7 / 5)
Kreg R3 is a great tool for small scale repair and joinery, especially in DIY projects. This home improver’s solution comes in a durable construction that’s built to last. It is equipped with a clamp pad adapter, a feature that lets it securely easily on your workpiece. It is designed to be compatible with Kreg face clamp (for faster and more repeatable pocket holes), C-clamp and standard bar clamp.
The jig can handle just about anything, thanks to its 9 depth settings that let you join materials ranging from 1/2 inch to 1-1/2 inches thick. This is done in 1/8-inch increments for more precision. A mounting hole is included to let you work in restrictive areas that don’t fit a clamp. Kreg R3 provides the convenience of an optimized drilling angle to enable you create compact holes less than 1-1/2 inches.
Each drill guide hole has a wood chip relief that keeps the drill bit free of any excess wood chips. With it, you get to minimize drill torque while adding more life to your drill bits. The kit includes an organized carrying case for safe storage and easy access. The jig comes with a drill, drive bits, 5 pocket hole screws, depth collar And Allen key.
Pros
- Extremely portable and comes with everything needed
- Quality and durable construction
- Easy adjustment for unlimited material thickness
- An affordable starter kit
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Clamp isn’t built into the main tool therefore keeping your workpiece in one place can be a challenge
Who Should Buy?
This tool gives an easy time during use and when making adjustments. It comes at an affordable price but can only be used for part-time projects. This makes it a nice starter kit for DIY weekend warrior.
#3. Kreg Jig K4 Pocket Hole Jig System
Editor's Rating: 
(4.8 / 5)
The K4 comes in a nice package that takes the brand’s expertise to a whole new level. This jig has been designed to provide premium level accuracy and precision. It’s a durable system that gives the convenience of 9 settings for material thickness. Done in 1/8-inch increments, the system handles materials that are 1/2 inch to 1-1/2 inches thick.
Kreg Jig K4 is equipped with a patented 3-hole drill guide to accept unlimited material thickness. Thanks to a dust collection shroud, you get to achieve a work area that is clean and tidy. This tool eliminates the need for those ungainly clamps. Instead, it sports a large built-in recess clamp that secures easily to a workbench.
The tool comes with a removable drill guide. This means that it can be used with both bench top and portable bases, a feature that comes in handy when working out in the field. There are various accessories that let you take your woodworking project to the next level. These include spacer block, 6-inch square driver, stepped drill bit, starter screw set, starter plug set, quick start guide and Sillbuilder DVD.
Pros
- Small incremental settings for greater control
- Handles unlimited material thickness from 1/2-inch to 1-1/2-inch
- Removable drill guide compatible with both bench top and portable bases
- Patented 3-hole drill guide provides great precision
- Dust collection shroud keeps the work area clean and tidy
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Requires some little talent to get a hang of it
Who Should Buy?
Kreg Jig K4 includes additional accessories that lacks in Kreg R3 model. Therefore, it's a nice choice for a weekend warrior who requires a little bit more in a DIY repair and joinery starter kit.
#4. Kreg K5 Pocket Hole Jig
Editor's Rating: (4.8 / 5)
Right from the box, you’ll appreciate the wonderful package that comes with Kreg K5. It’s one of the latest releases in Kreg line of pocket jigs. That said, this is a tool that brings together the benefits and expertise featured in earlier tools, a combination that results into an efficient and premium quality pocket hole jig.
Kreg K5 is equipped with a ratcheting clamp that’s connected to a front-mount clamp handle for easy adjustment. This eliminates the need for additional tools or lock nuts. The drill guide block attaches via a quick-release pin, a feature that prevents any components from getting lost. With this tool, you get a swivel dust collection port, which connects to vacuum hose to keep the work area tidy.
The tool gives the convenience of unique storage wings which are removable to provide safe storage for your accessories. Kreg K5 can be used on materials measuring 1/2-inch to 1-1/2-inch thick. What’s more, it comes with 6 downloadable home plans to get you started right away.
Pros
- Tool-free clamping adjustments
- Dust port links to standard vacuum hose to keep the work area clean
- Built-in quick release pin secures the block in position
- Clever storage wings accommodate all your accessories
- Adjustable workpiece mounts for repeat drilling
Cons
- Vacuum port connection doesn’t secure well and can detach during use
Who Should Buy?
Kreg K5 has more to offer compared to other tools in this list. The slightly higher price means that it is of good quality. This makes it a great tool for the professional craftsman or weekend warrior who wants a budget-friendly upgrade of Kreg K4.
Read More: Kreg K4 vs. Kreg K5
#5. General Tools 850 Pro Pocket Hole Jig Kit
Editor's Rating: 
(4.1 / 5)
So, we’ve covered simplicity and portability – but what about a kit that does both? General Tools 850 is designed to be used with both bench top and portable base, a features that comes in handy when planning to travel with it. Though lacking in automated features, this jig kit has lots to offer. The jig comes unique in heavy-duty aluminum body that makes it a little bit lightweight and durable enough to take some punishment.
This is a tool that’s designed to work in different work place configurations. Pocket plugs are included to help you get a tidy finish. Everything packs away neatly in a hard molded carrying case. The kit includes a list of impressive accessories, such as 3/8-inch bit, 6-inch square drive bit and a drill step.
Pros
- Extremely affordable pocket jig
- Versatile built-in clamping system
- Includes wooden pocket hole plugs and self tapping screws
- Mounts on both bench top and portable bases
Cons
- Built quality doesn’t compare to other products in our list
Who Should Buy?
General Tools 850 E comes at an extremely affordable price. What's more, it includes almost everything you need in joinery work though its quality doesn't compare to other products on this list. That said, it makes a nice kit for those in search of a budget-friendly jig kit that comes with everything you need.
Benefit of Using Pocket Hole Jig
Pocket hole jigs have many benefits, especially when it comes to screw joinery work. These include the following:
- More efficient: Compared to other joinery tool, it’s more efficient and is widely used by carpenters and skilled professionals.
- Increased flexibility: A pocket hole jointer allows for more flexibility. It lets you undertake various joinery projects even without using glue in most cases. This makes the screw joints much easier to disassemble.
- Ease of use: Pocket jigs are much easier to use. It features little instructions that keep you going in no time. Moreover, you don’t have to rely on a number of clamps in your work since the screws are enough to hold the pieces together.
- Creates strong joints: The strength and finish provided by pocket hole jigs is very impressive. The applied glue and screws create an extremely robust joint. What’s more, everything sits clean since the screws are perfectly hidden from sight.
Pocket Hole Jig Buying Guide
source: generaltools.com
Buying the best pocket hole jig can be quite confusing. This is because there are multiple brands to choose from. As a beginner, you need to know that it takes lots of time and research to get the right pocket hole jig for your project. Wondering how you go about selecting the right tool for the job? Well, here are some of the factors to look for when selecting best pocket hole jig system to buy:
#1. Construction and Strength
Choose a jig that’s made of quality material and includes durable accessories that can last for many uses. Despite the fact that clamping on a bench isn’t necessary, the durability and strength of the clamp should be considered. This will enable it accommodate both thick and thin material while improving on the drilling accuracy.
#2. Ease-of-use and Maintenance
As a craftsman, you need to make your life easier. Therefore it makes sense to invest in pocket hole jigs that are easy to use and assemble. The tool should also be strong enough to minimize the need for repair and maintenance. Other features that will provide ease-of-use include a wood chip relief system, which makes the work area clean and eliminates risk of damaging the material.
#3. Features
What exactly do you need in pocket hole jigs? Well, you need to evaluate your needs and match them with the features sported in a certain kit. Some pocket hole jigs have more features compared to others. Therefore find one that has more advanced features vital for the project you’re planning to undertake.
#4. Flexibility
Some jig kits are designed for small to medium projects while others are for bigger projects. But you can benefit from both by purchasing an all-round tool that can accommodate all materials and be used in restrictive places.
#5. Ease-of-adjustment
The best pocket hole jig is one that is easier to adjust. Try to choose one that uses little or no tools when making adjustments. This will help you spend less on extra tools and make the work easier.
#6. Brand
Kreg pocket hole jig finds great application owing to their quality and the lifetime warranty provided. Apart from Kreg pocket hole jig, you can also choose from brands such as General Tools and Porter-Cable.
#7. User Reviews
Reading pocket hole jig reviews can give you lots of information regarding the best tool for the job. Pocket hole jig reviews can be found online and you can choose to source them from Amazon since it provides more reliable reviews.
Conclusion
These pocket hole jigs are really worth considering. They provide ease-of-use and create end products that are quite flawless. And you don’t have to break a bank to get one since they come affordable and deliver as advertised. Please use the above purchasing guide and select your best tool from the list.
Last Updated on August 7, 2020 by