The Kreg R3 Jr. Pocket Hole Jig is our best pocket hole jig and this one can adjust from half an inch to 1 1/2 inches on any material. It is an ideal pocket hole jig for DIY work. A bar clamp or a c-clamp can be used with this convenient pocket hole jig for a smoother operation. For your convenience, the drilling angle of this pocket hole jig is superb and efficient so you not only get more drilling power but also a sturdier project finish. Also, the drill guide has two holes that are very convenient to use. It comes with all the necessary items, such as a depth collar with a hex key, a clamp pad adapter, drill and drive bits and pocket hole screws with five sizes as well as a case.
Our step-up pick is the PORTER-CABLE 560 QUIKJIG Pocket-Hole Joinery System and with this, you will feel at ease with every pocket hole joinery work with this pocket hole jig. The support for longer work pieces is greatly achieved due to the base casting which has a thickness of 1 1/2 inches. The durability is absolutely flawless due to the all-metal construction. You don’t have to change the drill bit collar setup because it automatically adheres to the thickness of your material. Moreover, material thickness can be adapted to easily using the right screw length that can be determined using the screw length gauge. Pocket holes can be adapted to easily due to the variable spaced bushings which will work on a wide range of positions.
The budget pick is the General Tools 850 Pocket Hole Jig and it is ideal for making cabinets, furniture, picture frames, leg connections, rails and many more. The extrusion is made from sturdy aluminum construction while the steel bushings have been hardened for extreme durability. In addition, a clamping system can be attached with this pocket hole jig. The screws have self-tapping capability so you get ease in assembling the pocket hole jig for any operation whatsoever.
A Little Background
A pocket hole jig is mainly used for carpentry work, particularly for pocket hole joining systems. Pocket hole joinery started its way back in Ancient Egypt with their tremendously incredible and awe-inspiring engineering skills, which most of us have adapted up to this day. Pocket hole joining with a pocket hole jig seems to be one of the most convenient things to have as a woodworker in general because of its usefulness. Modernization is what caused the pocket hole jig to be invented and the system of pocket hole joinery to be invented, to which it became immensely popular nowadays.
Some of the best applications of a pocket hole jig include assembling picture frames, repairing table legs, working on furniture and many more. Pocket hole jigs are used for drilling into a work piece at a particular angle and then screwing it up and topping off with a wood cover. Thus, it can be used for a variety of applications – practically anything that requires a lot of patience and precision and edge joining. In fact, a pocket hole jig is very useful for super tight situations and spaces where normal woodworking techniques won’t really do.
Instead of traditionally mortising and doing the math on your work piece, the pocket hole jig does the job for you at a set angle. The angle can be adjusted at your own pace so you know that you are giving your wood work the best kind of attachment it will have. Also, the system of using a pocket hole jig makes it easier for any person to make repairs on that certain piece – all they need to do is drill another hole and then screw it up. It is indeed a very convenient way to manage your wood pieces at home.
The only downside to some woodworkers is the fact that some people think pocket screws are a cheap way of creating wood crafts because they are a lot easier than mortising, which is the traditional way of making any wood craft. Most woodworkers take pride in having zero metal in their work piece, but hey, it is definitely different strokes for different folks, we’d say. It all depends on what you want to attain for your wood working piece. Therefore, you should not let yourself down when it comes to using pocket hole screws and pocket hole jigs in general, when you find that this is the most convenient way to finish a project with ease. It is also a great alternative to having to do math all the time with mortising.
How We Picked
Choosing a pocket hole jig is not really a big deal but you do have to consider some factors. When it comes to the best pocket hole jig, we counted on the following to make our decision:
Ease of use – because a pocket hole jig is designed for convenience, using this piece of tool should be as simple as drilling a hole into any work piece. The handling of the pocket hole jig should be just right.
Unique features – if the pocket hole jig has unique features then it is a truly one of a kind jig to consider. Anything that makes the pocket hole jig stand out from the crowd is a great asset.
Durability – it would be best if you can go for a full metal construction for a pocket hole jig so it can stand up to years of use. This makes it worth your money and investment and your time, especially if you will use it repeatedly for a lot of woodworking projects now and in the future.
Flexibility – the pocket hole jig should be able to adhere to a variety of drilling holes, angles and material thicknesses. The key to effectively implementing a pocket hole joining system is to have a guide on which screw to use for which material thickness. It would be helpful if the product also has a user’s manual or guide on its casing (if it has one) for you to depend on while working on different types of material, especially on wood.
Adjustability- the pocket hole jig should be naturally highly adjustable on angle, size and other elements. Or, you can also get one that is fully automatic (and pricier) and adheres to the thickness of your material so literally don’t have to do much, other than attach the jig to the material you are working on.
Our Pick
Kreg R3 Jr. Pocket Hole Jig
Our best pocket hole jig is the Kreg R3 Jr. Pocket Hole Jig which comes with all the necessary items, such as a depth collar with a hex key, a clamp pad adapter, drill and drive bits and pocket hole screws with five sizes as well as a case. This pocket hole jig is definitely great for any kind of repair situation that requires a repair jig.
An ideal pocket hole jig for DIY work, you can easily adjust from half an inch to 1 1/2 inches on any material. What’s more, for your convenience and for durability, the drilling guide for this pocket hole jig is made from solid metal. The Kreg R3 Jr. is indeed very convenient to install and use. Moreover, it is highly flexible due to its positioning sliders that require only an easy press. As a matter of fact, you can choose up to nine different settings on the sliders.
Adding to the convenience of the R3 Jr., a bar clamp or a c-clamp can be used with this convenient pocket hole jig for a smoother operation. For ease of use, a steel core is included with the drill guide and in which the steel core is also hardened to take on the test of durability ahead of it. In addition to that, the drill guide has two holes that are very convenient to use.
Likewise, the drilling angle of this pocket hole jig is superb and efficient so you not only get more drilling power but also a sturdier project finish. As for sturdiness, the nylon has also been glass-reinforced so it stays flexible without compromising durability.
Overall, the Kreg R3 Jr. Pocket Jig is a great alternative to mortising because it holds the work piece together so all you need to do is drill and drive. This handy jig easily clears your drill bit of extra wood chips due to the dual wood chip holes. Conveniently, it can also be attached to any face clamp. And moreover, the adjustability of this pocket hole jig is in increments of 1/8 inch.
In addition, a depth collar gauge is included which has been molded with the case so you get a quick and easy reference for any project. The pocket hole jig also includes a stepped drill bit, a starter screw set, a six-driver bit and an Allen wrench. The Kreg Pocket Hole Jig is backed by a lifetime warranty.
Flaws but Not Dealbrakers
There are almost no known flaws for the Kreg R3 Jr. Pocket Hole Jig because many were greatly pleased from its high convenience and great features. The only downside, perhaps, is the price, but if you count it out, it’s not a big deal to consider if you want to attain convenience while working on DIY projects at home or in any place.
Step-up Pick
PORTER-CABLE 560 QUIKJIG Pocket-Hole Joinery System
The PORTER-CABLE 560 QUIKJIG Pocket-Hole Joinery System is our step-up pick for the best pocket hole jig in which the material thickness can be adapted to easily using the right screw length that can be determined using the screw length gauge. And in addition, the material thickness is also the basis of its self-adjusting clamp which has an automatic adjustment feature.
With this almost fully-automatic pocket hole jig, you can have the opportunity to work on many pieces at once due to its repeatable clamp system. In fact, the pocket holes can be adapted to easily due to the variable spaced bushings which will work on a wide range of positions. Did we say automatic? Get this: an automatic depth control system sets this pocket hole jig apart from the rest of the pocket hole jigs out there. You will feel at ease with every pocket hole joinery work with this pocket hole jig.
Using the PORTER-CABLE Pocket-Hole Joinery System, you don’t have to change the drill bit collar setup because it automatically adheres to the thickness of your material. And in addition to that, a dust port allows you to connect a dust extractor to this system, so it is one of a kind when it comes to pocket hole jigs and joinery systems.
The QUIKJIG is definitely a great woodworking companion due to the fact that support for longer work pieces is greatly achieved due to the base casting which has a thickness of 1 1/2 inches. its durability is absolutely flawless due to the all-metal construction. The PORTER-CABLE QUIKJIG System comes with a hex key, a clamp, a drill bit, a depth collar, some square drives and a total of one hundred pocket hole screws, all varying in sizes.
For added convenience and durability, the drill guides are also made from metal so it is definitely a great pocket hole jig to consider for heavy duty work. For the contents, the pocket hole screw package includes 1 1/4 inch (40), 1 1/2 inch (40) and 1 inch (20) screws. The pocket hole jig is currently backed by a limited warranty of 3 years plus 1 year service contract and 90 days money back guarantee. It also includes an instruction manual as well as a clamp for convenience.
Budget Pick
General Tools 850 Pocket Hole Jig
Our budget pick for the best pocket hole jig is the General Tools 850 Pocket Hole Jig in which extrusion is made from sturdy aluminum construction. In fact, the steel bushings have been hardened for extreme durability. As a highly qualified tool for any woodworking situation, this one also complies with the FSC or Forest Stewardship Council.
For added convenience, like most jigs, a clamping system can be attached with this pocket hole jig. And what’s more, it is also extremely portable in its build. The General Tools Jig comes with a square drive bit that measures 6 inches and is made from sturdy steel. In addition to that, screws have self-tapping capability so you get ease in assembling the pocket hole jig for any operation whatsoever.
The General Tools Pocket Hole Jig comes with a drill step and it also comes with the necessary clamps to hold the pocket hole jig together. And moreover, a 3/8-inch drill bit is also included. The pocket hole jig also comes with pocket hole plugs made of wood so you don’t have to buy them separately.
What’s more, the jig set includes a hard molded carrying case for your convenience. This product by General Tools is currently backed by a warranty of 1 year for the parts and is very ideal for making cabinets, furniture, picture frames, leg connections, rails and many more which require a pocket hole jig.
Best Pushblock Pocket Hole Jig
GRR-RIPPER 3D Pushblock by MICROJIG
Unique, sturdy and easy to use – the GRR-RIPPER 3D Pushblock by MICROJIG can be used with smaller stock because of its great mechanism. And as a matter of fact, it can furthermore be used alongside a router table, a band saw, a jointer and a table saw. Definitely, your work piece gets the best control because of the three-dimensional force that this pocket hole jig employs.
The overall kickback is greatly reduced from the design of this pocket hole jig. And additionally, your hands are greatly protected because of the blade guard that moves along with it. For those who want precision, you get super thin rips at a thickness of only 1/4 inch and are very precise to the point.
The unique thing about this pocket hole jig is the fact that the push block design is unlike any other pocket hole jig out there in the market. And for added convenience while working on the go, the downward pressure of this pocket hole jig makes it super easy to use. Moreover, the inward pressure to the fence also keeps the stock steady. For those with nervous hands, your cut will be stabilized better using the balance support feature of the pocket hole jig.
Moreover, you can use a ton of work pieces for this jig, including wood (any kind of wood for that matter), aluminum, plastic and anything that can be drilled with a pocket hole jig’s help. Super flexible as a pocket hole jig, the GRR-RIPPER 3D is also highly adjustable so that you get perfect results every time.
And furthermore, the GRR-RIPPER cuts with high precision even with sawdust on the way. With this pocket hole jig, you get unprecedented super versatility for various applications, such as face jointing, freehand routing, long stock ripping and band saw veneers. And in addition, it also prevents burning due to the forward pressure.
The GRR-RIPPER 3D Pushblock also comes with an instructional DVD that runs for 2 hours to teach you techniques on using the pocket hole jig on jointers, band saws and the like. And likewise, it also comes with a warranty registration card. As a matter of fact, the range of wood it can handle include oak, ebony, maple, cherry, pine, walnut, poplar and many more. Overall, it is not just a multi-purpose tool – it is also something that keeps you safe in the workplace.
Best Double Pocket Hole Jig
Task Pro-Center Double-Pocket Hole Guide 06250TK
The Task Pro-Center Double-Pocket Hole Guide 06250TK is a dual pocket hole jig that will speed up your work anytime. Most hole spacing requirements are not a problem because these two pocket hole jigs are highly adjustable. For added durability, the steel bushings are hard and durable and come as 1/8 inch and 3/8 inch in a set of two.
And in addition to that, it is also highly resistant to rust for better durability due to being black oxide on its tempered steel construction for the bushings. And moreover, the anodized aluminum also keeps the finish rust-free. Durability-wise, the aluminum is highly durable due to being aircraft-grade. Take pride in this pocket hole jig because it does not contain flimsy plastic parts. Moreover, the Task Pro-Center Pocket Hole Guide can be easily connected and set up with any clamp fixture.
Ideal Pocket Hole Jig Kit
Wolfcraft 4643404 Pocket Hole Jig Kit
If you want a complete pocket hole jig kit which comes with a sturdy case to get things organized then you should definitely get the Wolfcraft 4643404 Pocket Hole Jig Kit for your working set up. For durability, the construction is a glass-filled nylon one-piece build so it does not pave the opportunity of misplacing parts. In fact, durability is superb because of its compact and high quality design which also adds to its portability.
Adding convenience to your work, the self-tapping screws will definitely come in handy and works with any square (Phillips) drive. In addition to that, the Wolfcraft Jig Kit can allow you to work in the hardest areas to reach. What’s more, the casing also has a guide for the recommended screw length on the corresponding thickness of the wood (e.g. 1/2 inches wood thickness is equivalent to a 1 inch screw).
The Wolfcraft Pocket Hole Jig Kit comes with a total of 40 screws, which comprise 10 each of square drive 1 1/2 inch, 1 1/4 inch, 2 1/2 inch screws plus 10 additional 1 inch screw. And moreover, the pocket hole jig also comes with a No. 2 Phillips screwdriver bit. To avoid having to purchase them separetly, it also comes complete with 10 wooden pocket hole plugs.
Furthermore, a 3/8 inch step drill is included in this package which also contains the pocket hole jig itself. And in addition to that, a 3/8 inch stop collar as well as a 1/8 inch hex key is also included in this package. Adjustability-wise, the depths are already set up so you don’t have to do guesswork on any project. The Wolfcraft Jig Kit is backed by a limited lifetime warranty so you’d better buy it while it lasts.
Best Simple Pocket Hole Jig
Silverline 6,8 10mm Pocket Hole Jig
The Silverline Pocket Hole Jig comes in three different sizes: 6 mm, 8 mm and 10 mm and it gives you the most accurate results for screwing joints. As for the durability, the heavy duty build and finish makes it an ideal budget option for a simple pocket hole jig.
For added convenience, you can fill a dowel to the joint using the guides so you don’t have to do the math anymore, compared to mortising. The pocket hole jig by Silverline is also super lightweight so it can be used on the go. Moreover, it is a great pocket hole jig for the casual DIYer.
Best Wide Capacity Pocket Hole Jig
Eagle America 445-7600 Wide Capacity Jig
A wide capacity pocket hole jig to consider is the Eagle America 445-7600 Wide Capacity Jig in which the precision of this pocket hole jig is great. It is ideal doweling pocket hole jig for any project and it can handle materials with thicknesses fro 1/4 inch to 6 inches. What’s more, it has a self-centering mechanism so you stay smooth on any operation.
As a unique feature, the wide capacity makes it ideal for bigger projects and materials. In fact, you can just add a spacer block to create offset holes. A total of 2 bushings are included for each size of 3/8, 5/16 and 1/4 inch. For sturdiness, the hardened steel guides are all set on its aluminum body which has been anodized for better durability and rust-free capabilities.
Conveniently, the Eagle America Jig greatly eliminates guesswork because of its accuracy. And in addition, it has 2 fixed holes which measure 1/2 inch and 7/16 inch. It also has tapped guide holes for easy drilling. For convenience, it can be clamped easily onto any surface when needed.
Do know this: if the joint is edge to end, you can even create 90-degree corner joints. Moreover, the jig is ideal for use on edge jointing, butt and miter jointing as well as mortising.
Best Side Pocket Hole Jig
Rockler Universal Drawer Slide Jig
With the Rockler Universal Drawer Slide Jig, the ABS foot of this pocket hole jig makes it durable and flexible. You can easily access your driver bits and drill bits due to its pre-made cutouts. Also, the jig securely locks slide the wedge for convenience while the nylon body is foamed for durability.
You can use the foot for top or bottom due to its rotational mechanism. The indexing rod is made from sturdy steel. Moreover, this pocket hole jig is perfect for projects that require repeated actions due to its adjustable indexing foot. The side mount has been epoxy-coated and is ball-bearing for great security.
Great for installing cabinets or making repairs, the Rockler Slide Jig has a large clamping area which allows you to get better control of your pocket hole jig and your work piece
Ideal Pocket Hole Jig for DIY Use
Big Horn 12600 Pock’It Jig
With the Big Horn 12600 Pock’It Jig, square drive pocket screws are included in this pocket hole jig set. The hole depth can be greatly adjusted using the stop collar part and the drill of the angle can be managed using the drill guides which are highly adjustable.
This is the ideal tool for any DIYer who definitely want to go their own way when it comes to jointing and woodworking repairs. It includes a square drive bit which measures 5 inches and comes with a hex wrench and a working clamp as well. Its accuracy is great for its value.
The minimum gap is 1 inch and the maximum gap is 3 inches. Also, the solid metal design makes it durable yet surprisingly lightweight. It also comes with a 3/8 inch step drill. Both the width and depth values are adjustable with this awesome pocket hole jig.
The Competition
There were only a few other pocket hole jigs out there so it was obvious on which are the ones that stood out. Pocket hole jigs are great working tools and they should provide convenience to the worker, especially when it comes to accuracy.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is pocket hole joinery, what is it used for and what are its benefits?
A: According to Wikipedia , pocket hole joinery is a way that woodworkers attach two or more pieces of wood or material by drilling at a certain angle and then joining them with self-tapping screw and then covering with wood plugs. Pocket hole joinery does not often require mathematic calculations compared to mortising so it is a very common way of assembling furniture and wood parts.
Pocket hole joinery is commonly used for making bevels, curves, edge joining, window jambs, stairs, picture frames, corner angles and the like. In most cases, you only need to drill one hole and then you’re good with the project.
Q: Why do some woodworkers criticize the use of pocket hole screws and the system of pocket hole joinery?
A: According to The Wood Whisperer , this is particularly because most people think that pocket screws make a piece look cheaper due to the fact that it is very easy to attach two pieces of wood together with a pocket hole jig rather than doing it traditionally by tenon jointing or mortising.
No matter what your furniture or bench may have been made with, what matters is that you put a lot of effort in it and pocket hole joinery is just a system you worked with – there is nothing wrong with using pocket screws if that is what floats your boat.
Wrapping It Up
Overall, the Kreg R3 Jr. Pocket Hole Jig is our best pocket hole jig designed to simplify your life when it comes to woodworking and making repairs.
Jen Miller is a former electrical engineer and product specialist with more than 20 years of product design and testing experience. She has designed more than 200 products for Fortune 500 companies, in fields ranging from home appliances to sports gear and outdoor equipment. She founded Jen Reviews to share her knowledge and critical eye for what makes consumers tick, and adopts a strict no-BS approach to help the reader filter through the maze of products and marketing hype out there. She writes regularly and has been featured on Forbes, Fast Company, The Muse, The Huffington Post, Tiny Buddha and MindBodyGreen.