I am going to be building some patio furniture (BGE table, with separate sideboard) and I'd like to get a pocket screw system to help with the project. I have a dowel jig, and could get a biscuit cutter system, but it seems that a pocket screw system might be better.

Please advise on decent pocket systems. I'm not looking to spend a fortune, but I am a buy once cry once guy when it comes to tools.

I can also be talked out of this if a biscuit system is overall better for this kind of work.

Thanks.

A

This is about all you need:

https://www.amazon.com/R3-Prom...-Pack/dp/B01G3VP3N8/

https://www.amazon.com/Kreg-SK...arter/dp/B0756TGBXX/

https://www.amazon.com/Kreg-MK...ig-Kit/dp/B00065WPP2

There are more complex setups and clamping systems, but this is all I need to build and install all kinds of things.

I have the Kreg R3 and it's paid for itself many times over. I didn't get the kit with the Kreg vice grip style clamp though, I usually just use a Bessey quick clamp or Milwaukee vice grip C clamp.

Keep in mind that pocket screws aren't meant to bear much load when you design your creation.
Be sure to get the right size screws and adjust the jig to the right size before you go to far. The 1 1/4 and 1 1/2 are what I use most for 1" (3/4 actual) stock. Test on a scrap piece before so your screw doesn't poke out the back.

Thanks guys, the piece I was planning on building recommends the Kreg jig as well.

A

Yep Kreg - I use the K5 Master kit here plus I bought the nifty case for it all.

https://www.amazon.com/Kreg-MK...ig-Kit/dp/B00065WPP2

Unless you are planning on doing a lot of pocket screw work, the simplest tool will do nicely.

I have used these tools, my son in law does a lot with them and he has the best one they have.

I bought the small Kreg jig kit and built a rough Big Green Egg table for my Dad's cabin. I have a bunch of oak in my garage and plan to build another one for my house. I need to get going on that project! Please post pics when it is built!

Another Kreg jig fan here. Simple, reliable design.

Kreg is great. And you can get plugs for the holes afterward to make it more seamless.

Thanks for this discussion. I had seen pocket screws, but never knew what their proper name was, much less how it was possible to use them.

Look on craigslist. I had k3 and then found a great deal on a new k5 on craigslist. The best part of the k5 is the dust collection port. Hook it to a shop vac and everything stays clean.

I have a Porter Cable Quik Jig which I recently acquired. I've not had time to wring it out fully but it's very well built and looks to be great for projects which require many similar sized joints.

Kreg k5 all the way. I even bought 2 kreg folding work tables on clearance at lowes for $75 ea. Awesome stuff!

This topic is a lot less interesting than I was expecting.

I use a castle in my cabinet shop way more then what you would need, but the things are endless for what you can do with them. I wouldn't waste my money on buying the kreg screws as they want a small fortune for them, you can buy a 50 lb box at your local cabinet shop supply store. I buy mine from E.B. Bradley Company.

Kreg R3. Make sure to use the blue or stainless screws for outdoor projects.

Despite Para not charging for membership here: this site is expensive.

Artie, before you buy anything, take a look at this jig. https://armor-tool.com/product...t-hole/the-auto-jig/ I have a Kreg K3 jig I've used a ton that I intend to replace with one of these Armor jigs very soon. Armor includes some really neat upgrades on what Kreg offers with their jigs.

quote:

Originally posted by arcwelder76:
This is about all you need:

https://www.amazon.com/R3-Prom...-Pack/dp/B01G3VP3N8/

https://www.amazon.com/Kreg-SK...arter/dp/B0756TGBXX/

https://www.amazon.com/Kreg-MK...ig-Kit/dp/B00065WPP2

There are more complex setups and clamping systems, but this is all I need to build and install all kinds of things.

Yep. I have this system. It's magic and sorcery.

I use them both, biscuits more for panel construction, Kreg screws for right angle joining.