This article will explore the different options available for pocket hole jigs and help readers decide which Kreg Jig to purchase for their woodworking needs. Kreg Tool is a trusted brand for pocket hole jigs, and they offer a variety of models to choose from.
The Kreg 320 Pocket Hole Jig is the smallest and most affordable option, making it a great choice for beginners. The Kreg 520 Pocket Hole Jig and the Kreg 720 Pocket Hole Jig are newer models, while the Kreg Foreman is an older model that is still available. Each jig comes with a drill bit, stop collar, square drive bit, and thickness gauge, and replacements can be purchased if needed. In the following sections, each of these models will be discussed in detail.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Kreg Tool offers a variety of pocket hole jigs to choose from.
- The Kreg 320 Pocket Hole Jig is the smallest and most affordable option, making it great for beginners.
- The Kreg 520 Pocket Hole Jig, Kreg 720 Pocket Hole Jig, and Kreg Foreman are newer and older models that offer different features and price points.
The Kreg 320 Pocket Hole Jig
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The Kreg 320 pocket hole jig is a portable and inexpensive option that is great for beginners who are just starting to use pocket hole jigs and don’t want to make a large upfront investment. It is one of the smallest jigs available and is quick to set up, small, lightweight, and easy to move around your workpiece in order to drill your pocket holes.
I’d recommend the 320 Kreg Jig for:
- Workshops that only use pocket holes occasionally
- First time pocket hole jig users
- Tight budgets
- Workshops that need to drill pocket holes on large panels or long boards
Kreg 320 Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Portable
- Easy to set up and adjust for different materials
- Great for large/long boards/panels that would be difficult to use on upright jigs
Kreg 320 Cons:
- Requires an additional clamp
- Can’t be stationed on a workbench
- Time-consuming to move and re-clamp between each hole
- Hard on your arm to drill horizontally over and over
The Kreg 320 jig is designed to “break apart” and “add on to.” One of the cool features of the jig is that you can purchase additional drill guides to snap onto the jig to make it wider or remove them to make it smaller. However, there are no bells and whistles with this jig, and it’s more labor-intensive and time-consuming than other jigs. It’s not made to be stationed on the workbench, and drilling is usually done in a horizontal motion, which can tire out your arm quickly.
If you plan on using the Kreg 320 pocket hole jig, it’s recommended to use a Kreg AutoMaxx Face Clamp with it. This clamp allows you to adjust your jig for the size lumber you are working with, clamp it, and drill. While the Kreg 320 jig is not ideal for drilling a ton of pocket holes at a time, it is a valuable jig to have on hand for drilling pocket holes on large panels or long boards that would be difficult to use on upright jigs.
The Kreg 520 Pocket Hole Jig
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The Kreg 520 Pocket Hole Jig is a step up from the 320. It is still portable, but it comes with its own built-in trigger clamp, making it quicker and easier to move around your workpiece with the clamp function. It is more expensive than the 320, but it is a versatile option for beginners, small workshops, and woodworkers looking for a step up from the 320.
I recommend the Kreg 520 Pocket Hole Jig for:
- First-time pocket hole jig users
- Woodworkers looking for a step up from the 320
- Small workshops that need the best bang for their buck and don’t have room or budget for large or multiple jigs
Kreg 520 Jig Pros:
- A “best of both worlds” option that allows for both handheld and workbench-mounted drilling
- Small and lightweight
- Built-in trigger clamp and quick-release function
- Budget-friendly
Kreg 520 Jig Cons:
- Requires an additional clamp if you want to mount it to the workbench
- Not as many bells, whistles, and features as the larger 720
Additional Kreg 520 Features to Take Note Of:
The Kreg 520 Pocket Hole Jig is kind of like a “best of both worlds” pocket hole jig. It is a portable, handheld jig like the 320, but it has the capability of clamping onto a workbench similar to the 720 for upright clamping. However, for that, you need to purchase the pocket hole clamp separately (but it’s only about $15, so it’s well worth the investment).
If you wanted to pick up a Kreg 520 pocket hole jig, but wanted to add a few extra bells and whistles, you can purchase the Docking Station (about $50) that is compatible with both the 520 and the 720 jigs. This docking station includes the pocket hole clamp, some support wings (that double as storage boxes for the drill bits, clamp, and accessories) to help support larger pieces during upright drilling, and an adjustable stop block. This add-on just gives some extra functionality to the jig in the workbench-mounted position.
The Kreg 720 Pocket Hole Jig
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The Kreg 720 Pocket Hole Jig is a stationary version that is larger and more expensive than the 320 and the 520. It is a great option for those who drill a lot of pocket holes and need a quick and efficient setup. With the 720, instead of moving the jig around the piece, you move the piece around in the jig. This makes it less labor-intensive and much quicker for high production workshops.
I recommend the Kreg 720 Jig for:
- Workshops that drill a lot of pocket holes
- Shops with plenty of work surface space
- Beginner to Advanced pocket hole users
- Woodworkers looking for a jig for the long term
- Anyone interested in cutting their own pocket hole plugs
Kreg 720 Jig Pros:
- Auto-adjusts for board thickness
- Allows you to use plug cutting guide to cut your own pocket hole plugs
- Quick and efficient for high production pocket hole drilling
- Built-in extension wings for large board support
- Onboard bit storage
- Can clamp in both vertical and horizontal positions
Kreg 720 Jig Cons:
- More expensive than the 320 and the 520
- Takes up more work surface space
- Doesn’t function as a portable handheld jig for large boards if needed
The Kreg 720 Pocket Hole Jig comes with built-in fold-out/in extension wings for additional support for large boards or plywood panels. Also, you can purchase a pocket hole clamp to clamp this jig to the workbench or add on a docking station that includes the clamp, additional support wings, and an adjustable stop block.
The Kreg 720 Jig also comes as a 720 Pro kit that includes the jig and the docking station together along with vacuum dust attachments at a discounted price than if you purchased them separately. This jig actually can mount in multiple positions so you can drill both vertical or horizontal in two directions.
One of the coolest features of this new 700 series jig is that you don’t have to set it up for your board thickness. The new 720 AutoMaxx clamp feature sets the jig for you (for materials ½″ up to 1 ½″ thick), so all you have to do is adjust the stop collar on your drill bit.
Personally, it is recommended to purchase an additional drill bit so you can keep one set up for ¾″ material and one for 1 ½″ material. Then, since this jig adjusts itself, you can just swap out the drill bit when you change materials and you’re good to go. This pocket hole jig set up also allows you to swap out the drill guide for a plug cutting attachment (sold separately).
In conclusion, the Kreg 720 Pocket Hole Jig is a great option for those who need a quick and efficient setup for high production pocket hole drilling. It has many features that make it stand out from the 320 and the 520, including built-in extension wings, onboard bit storage, and the ability to clamp in both vertical and horizontal positions. However, it is more expensive and takes up more work surface space than the other two jigs.
The Kreg Foreman
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The Kreg Foreman is a pocket-hole machine designed for high production pocket hole drilling. It is a pricey option, costing around $450, and takes up a significant amount of space, making it unsuitable for small workshops or anyone just starting out. However, for those who drill a lot of pocket holes, it could be a worthwhile investment and time saver for their shop. The Foreman pocket-hole machine is a powerful tool that can handle larger projects and provide consistent results. It is important to note that like all joinery tools, the Foreman requires regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. For more information on the Kreg Foreman, visit Kreg’s website.
Final Thoughts About Choosing a Pocket Hole Jig
When it comes to choosing a pocket hole jig, there are many factors to consider. Woodworkers, DIYers, and professionals alike need to weigh their budget, the overall value of the product, and the quality of the jig. It’s also important to consider the brand, the services offered, and the reliability of the product.
Beginners may want to start with a smaller, more affordable jig that is easy to use and move around their workpiece. For more advanced woodworking projects, a larger, more complex jig may be necessary.
When purchasing a pocket hole jig, it’s important to aim for a reliable product that will last through multiple projects and repairs. Consider the events and projects you’ll be using the jig for, such as building kitchen cabinets or picture frames, to ensure you’re getting the right tool for the job.
Overall, there are many great pocket hole jigs on the market from various brands. It’s important to do your research and compare products to find the best fit for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Differences between Kreg Pocket Hole Jig K4 and Kreg Pocket-Hole Jig 520PRO
The Kreg Pocket Hole Jig K4 and Kreg Pocket-Hole Jig 520PRO are both excellent tools for woodworking projects. The K4 is a great option for beginners and DIY enthusiasts, while the 520PRO is a more advanced tool designed for professional use. The 520PRO has a larger clamping capacity, can be used with thicker materials, and has an adjustable workpiece stop. Additionally, the 520PRO has a dust collection port and comes with a storage case.
Best Kreg jig for beginners
For beginners, the Kreg Jig R3 is a great option. It is affordable, easy to use, and comes with everything needed to get started. The R3 is designed for use with materials that are 1/2 inch to 1-1/2 inches thick and has two drill guides for creating pocket holes in a variety of materials. Additionally, the R3 has a built-in clamp that makes it easy to secure the jig to the workpiece.
Difference between Kreg Jig R3 and Kreg 720 Pro
The Kreg Jig R3 and Kreg 720 Pro are both pocket hole jigs but are designed for different levels of experience. The R3 is a great option for beginners and DIY enthusiasts, while the 720 Pro is a more advanced tool designed for professional use. The 720 Pro has a larger clamping capacity, can be used with thicker materials, and has an adjustable workpiece stop. Additionally, the 720 Pro has a dust collection port and comes with a storage case.
Are all pocket hole jigs the same?
No, not all pocket hole jigs are the same. There are many different brands and models of pocket hole jigs, each with its own features and capabilities. Some pocket hole jigs are designed for beginners and DIY enthusiasts, while others are designed for professional use. Additionally, some pocket hole jigs are designed for use with specific materials or thicknesses.
Best pocket hole jig for the money
The best pocket hole jig for the money will depend on the user’s needs and budget. Some great options for beginners and DIY enthusiasts include the Kreg Jig R3 and the Massca Aluminum Pocket Hole Jig System Pro M2. For more advanced users, the Kreg Pocket-Hole Jig 520PRO and the Porter-Cable QUIKJIG pocket-hole room system are excellent options.
Is using a pocket hole jig worth it?
Using a pocket hole jig can be a great way to join pieces of wood together quickly and easily. Pocket hole joinery is strong and durable, and can be used to create a variety of different projects. Additionally, pocket hole joinery is easy to learn and can be done with a minimal amount of tools. Ultimately, whether or not using a pocket hole jig is worth it will depend on the user’s needs and preferences.
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