Less-expensive jigs that lack built-in clamps or alignment guides aren’t worth messing with. The Kreg Rocket jig is a great
midpriced tool. The $60 kit includes everything you’ll need to get started: a pocket hole jig, a special stepped drill bit and stop collar, a 6-in. driver bit, a locking pliers–type clamp and a handful of pocket screws. Buy Kreg jigs at woodworking stores or on-line, or shop for a high-quality pocket hole jig with similar features (see the Buyer’s Guide).
Setup Is Straightforward
Pocket screw jigs are ready to go right from the package. All you have to do is slide the stop collar over the bit, adjust the bit depth and tighten the collar (Photo 1). The jig is initially set up for joining 3/4-in. material with 1-1/4 in. screws. Add the plastic spacer included with the Kreg Rocket and use 2-1/2 in. long pocket screws to join 1-1/2 in. thick material like 2x4s. To join 1/2-in. thick material, reverse the stop on the front of the jig (refer to the instructions included with the jig) and use 1-in. long screws.
The Stepped Bit Drills Two Holes at Once
Photo 3 shows how to mount the jig and drill holes. Put the bit in the guide before you start the drill. Let the bit come to full speed before you push it into the wood. Withdraw the bit once or twice to eject shavings. It keeps the bit cooler and makes hole drilling easier.
Buy Special Screws
Pocket hole screws cost a little more, but they have three features that make them uniquely suited for pocket hole joinery: First, the self-drilling tips will easily penetrate even the hardest wood. Second, the heads are extra strong and have a square recess for slip-proof driving. For hardwood lumber, use fine-thread screws; for softer woods like pine, choose coarse-thread screws. And third, the washer head helps prevent overdriving the screws when you’re joining particleboard or plywood.
There are a variety of screws available for specific applications. To check out the various types, order an assortment for about $25 from the Kreg Co. (see the Buyer’s Guide).
Hold the Faces Flush, Then Screw Them Together
Other than making sure your cuts are perfectly square, the only trick to getting flush, tight-fitting joints is keeping the faces lined up as you drive the screws. I’ve had great success using the locking pliers– type clamp included with the Kreg Rocket (Photo 4). Put the large round metal pad against the visible side of the joint and clamp the pieces together. The clamp holds the pieces in alignment while the screws pull the joint tight. Other pocket hole jig users I’ve talked to prefer to clamp both pieces down to a flat surface. Try it both ways and decide for yourself.
Even though it’s not necessary for a strong joint, it’s good insurance to spread a thin layer of wood glue over both surfaces before screwing them together.
Pocket Screws Have Some Limitations
Most people are amazed at how easy it is to assemble strong, tight-fitting joints with pocket screws. But because the pocket holes are apparent even when they’re filled, pocket screws aren’t the best choice for assembling cabinet doors or other projects where both sides of the joint show. Despite this limitation, you’ll find plenty of uses for a pocket hole jig around your home shop.
Buyer’s Guide
Here are a few sources for pocket hole jigs, accessories and pocket hole screws.
Kreg Tool Co.: (800) 447-8638. www.kregtool.com
Rockler Woodworking and Hardware: (800) 233-9359. www.rockler.com
Woodcraft: (800) 225-1153. www.woodcraft.com
