I never looked up the price until writing this article and was shocked to see them priced higher than the Bessey K Body line. I can get 1/2 pipe clamps locally for $6 and pipe at $1.20 per foot. And, for small, intricate cuts its a great way to start off woodworking.
But, for budget minded projects or one-time use, a less expensive jig with a reputation for durability and precision is what DIYers or occasional woodworkers will choose. But, most importantly, the top cabinet hardware jigs will work on all styles of doors, including shaker cabinets that have a challenging inset face. Limited to Cont. I also have four of the Irwins but I wont be buying any more soon because they are a little too expensive for my retirement budget. Are you ready to upgrade that Old Pocket Hole Jig for something better?! Images are copyrighted and may not be used without explicit written permission. Dewalt), Entry-grade 3/4 (these are cheaper and lack the feet found on the pro versions), If you are just starting out and wont make cabinets or furniture, go for it.. Also not a fan of the kbody price/usage ratio. Jigs received on trade do not need to be functional, but must include all main component parts (complete jig). Well, to future-proof this drill consider: Unless you projects will include machining metal or precision layouts, there just isnt enough difference between brands to warrant the extra expense. Most things from HF are adequate as long as you don't mind tweaking the tool\item where applicable. And then, Makita vs. Dewalt. I prefer aluminum bar clamps and 1/2 pipe clamps over Bessey K Body clamps. The catch? Very well reasoned and clearly stated.
But, features like ease of bit change, electronic speed control, and a wide range of speed adjustment are also required. If the glue squeezes out ant there is no deformity, then that is tight enuf!!! Heck you really dont need clamps at all if the wood is machined right. FYI, the Bessey 6 F style clamps from Home Depot are a result of oversupply Christmas inventory. Well over half of the emails sent to me are on the subject of tools. Great review. Armor wants you to MAKE THE TRADE to the only fully self adjusting pocket hole jig! The local store I mentioned in the video is Discount Tools in Starkville Mississippi. The plastic is pathetic. Mike. And mostly because I use them heavily for cabinet making and need features like: While HF offers a good selection of plunge, fixed base and trim routers Id make a purchase decision based on: Planning to move to advanced woodworking projects? (clamps, pocket hole joinery, measuring devices, tool stands, etc.). Jeff. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED AS IS AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME. Press J to jump to the feed. They are waaaaaaaay less expensive and I reach for them more frequently in my shop. Simply because sometimes things just don't need to be complicated. That means a 1/2 pipe clamp that is 24 long is $8.50.
I think clamps have a steady middle ground that just seems to work. They also have problems with the handles stripping. If you just need a couple clamps to get by with or you want to invest as little as possible then dealing with the frustrations of Harbor Freight clamps will probably be OK. The best one word description of them is frustrating.. Even at HF, they are $14. That means you keep your jig until we can complete your transaction in full. I use or have a couple of 1/2 in bar clamp. The kreg extra long square bit and square drive screws are very good for pocket holes. I couldnt agree more with your take on clamps. First the docking station is extremely cheap. No complaints so far. The legs are 1.5 thick by 2 wide. I now also have the new versions of the Kreg slide mounting jig(s) and find that they work quite well. They aren't auto adjusting but then again once you set the clamp its set. Or, check out our pocket hole jig guide and start opening doors on a whole new world of projects. I feel like the power isnt there like in traditional F stylebar clamps, the handle is going in the wrong direction, and overall just feel awkward when using them for some reason. Learn why woodworkers prefer a vise like the aptly named for its versatility, compactness and all-wood jaws plus other types of woodworking vises. Yep. Customer will be responsible for shipping cost of any non-qualifying returns. As for the Harbor Freight Tools I have always use them. WE REPEAT. BENCHTOP TOOL ORGANIZERS: The best cabinet hardware jigs are designed to be used for jobs of any size, are made from all metal components and are easy to use. AutomaticallyAdjusting Clamp. If your just looking for a tool you only need here and there than its worth pulling the trigger on a deal. Well, Harbor Freight has been around a long time and expects the same quality of the tools they sell as the brands that order from similar overseas manufacturers. I bought the Kreg. I dont have any experience with the HF F style clamps I can admit to buying things at the HF stores though! Retired in 2004 and sold every tool I used. The Bessey K Body clamps are the strongest clamps I have and create the most stable platform to begin a glue-up but are also the least convenient in my opinion. Pipe clamps are my clamp of choice due to price and flexibility. Luke Troughton said: What I found interesting about the Rockler product was the clamping mechanism to hold the drawer slide. Good article! My favorite clamps are my inexpensive 1/2 pipe clamps. Workbench organization isnt just important for looks. The Best Router for Router Tables and Lifts, The Best Woodworking Vises, Types and How To Mount Them, 9 Unique Tool Brands For Serious Woodworkers, Easy Workbench Organization With These Unique Solutions, The Best Cabinet Hardware Jigs And Templates for Doors, The Best Benchtop Planers for Small Workshops In 2022, Professional Grade Random Orbital Sanders, The Best Woodworking Apron For Your Shop In 2022, Brand names for each type of tool (eg. The self adjusting ones would be handy to use. Keep in mind Harbor Freight has a strong brand to protect and their tools reflect that quality. At least I do. Tip I got from an old cabinet-maker. I made a clean sweep of my shop just a couple of days ago and ALL my Harbor Freight clamps found the way to the trash. I also put a good coat of paste wax on them keeps the glue from sticking to them only have to clean them every two years or so. While you can use a router in a table without a lift, a lift will make your projects easier, faster and arguably improve quality.
However, every single Harbor Freight F style clamp I own has something wrong with it. Theres no reason to drag a cord around the. I found a clamp that is more durable and works better. First time I really had a need for the ACS miter guide. The middle ground seems to be the sweet spot for me. As a discount versus the Kreg system, the Harbor Freight wood pocket hole jig offers a cheaper entry point in an all aluminum body. Jay! They sell for $5.99 all the time in California. But similar to cars and trucks there are just higher priced tools on the market with MORE features you may not always need. Disclosures: (1) If you click a link on this site and buy something I will earn a commission. Why are you trying to put so much pressure on clamps that they break? After 25+ years woodworking theres always room for value tools. Seems to be awfully quiet about Kreg's Adaptive Cutting System, How to Build a Shaker Fireplace Surround - Woodworking. This past week was the first time I ever needed to use the miter guide though.I was rebuilding some shelving in a tiny closet and I discovered theContinue. Once we receive your jig, we will send you a verification email with a $70 credit toward the Auto-Jig base model or Auto-Jig Bundles. Change from a 24 to 3/4 piece of paneling without resetting, just clamp and go!
Once you have a shipping tracking number, fill out the form to the right and hit send. The brands and manufacturers that Harbor Freight uses are frequently made in China. Take that shipping label to the nearest location and ship. This also guarantees you will get the trade and $70 Off. I got hooked on antique boats and bought one.
While the mainstream stores stick with mainstream brands, youll find Harbor Freight has lesser known brands bought from the same manufacturers that build name brand tools.
Ive had them for about a year now sitting in the same area as the rest of my clamps and I never seem to reach for them. They still complete the taskbut not without compensating for a bend in the bar or the screw bending off to one side.
I bought a brass wire wheel that goes in my drill to clean the bars on my k bodies makes it a lot easier and wont tear the bar up since the brass is softer. These wont be in depth tool reviews as I know very few people are interested in that kind of thing and I really dont want to go over all the details. As for clamps Harbor Freight will see you the clamps with the round jaw pads. That it, youre done! Report an Issue | Thanks for the tip on the couplings Floyd. Last reply by Jay Boutwell Apr 19. But, choosing the right type of vise and mounting location isnt as obvious as it might seem. It needed a lot of wood work done. Due to the overwhelming amount of response to the Make The Trade Campaign and shipping challenges posed by Covid limitations a longer exchange time can be expected. If I were to rebuild my shop tomorrow I would definitely stock up on 1/2 pipe clampsfirst as I find them to be the best value for the money. Thanks for the video and insight. While you might be familiar with standard brands like Dewalt, Makita and Milwaukee the popular woodworking brands from Harbor Freight include: So how do I know if the tool is junk or worth the spend? You can still participate in the exchange, purchase the Make The Trade shipping label, and it will hold you place in the exchange, but we WILL NOT request you send your jig until the transaction (trade) can be processed within 7 days. Guess what, that's exactly what the original style Kreg mounting jig already has! The spring clamps are also good for holding down a table cloth in the wind, assuming the table surface isnt too thick.
PROFESSIONAL SCREW ORGANIZERS: is a see-through and portable solution for small part and screw organization. You get what you pay for and Id rather have good clamps working well with the cost of wood these days. Automatically Adjust Drill Guide Block to Correct Height. Instead of through 4,5, or 6 different steps like many other pocket hole system. what are you using it for ? Acquired many 3/4 pipe clamps from forsaid neighbor and grandfather. But what most woodworkers miss is the unique tool brands that make woodworking faster, easier and improve quality. Thats a good note Larry, this might be why Ive always had such bad luck with pipe clamps. The Auto-Jig is equipped with our patented Auto-Adjust technology which allow you to clamp varying thicknesses without readjusting your clamp, while maintaining consistent pressure. I read once that "armor tools" held the patent on the self-adjust mechanism that works well. I had several similar tools, from Harbor Freight. Never tried the HF F style myself, i was lucky enough to get a bunch of bessey/ jorgenson ones of various sizes from a former neighbor and grandfather. I have the HF version of the pocket hole tool, really like it with the full aluminum build and the drill bushings. IMHO to each their own, I wont judge you I do scratch my head from time to time when I see people at the counter buying certain items knowing its not going to last. No need to re-invent the wheel here. You can still participate in the exchange, purchase the Make The Trade shipping label, and it will hold you place in the exchange, but we WILL NOT request you send your jig until the transaction (trade) can be processed within 7 days. They are reliable and strong for closing bags of charcoal, fertilizer, dog food, and most anything else. By visiting this website, you opt-in to the use of cookies. Send us your old jig to upgrade to the Armor Auto Auto-Jig! Thanks Jay. Also, the Irwin clamps are nice, but Ive broken a bunch by accidentally squeezing them too hard. They have several and their own Pocket hole jig too. The top of the line is where I think the value diminishes quickly. Lastly, it is constructed of steel, nylon, and blown fiberglass for superior durability.
NOTE: Armor offers Free Standard Shipping on orders over $100. It makes projects easier to start (and finish) and reduces time spent hunting for tools and supplies. You can ship your jig by purchasing our prepaid negotiated shipping rates (way cheaper) to get your trade to our shop. You can produce pocket holes in ONE-STEP. Armor reserved the sole right and discretion to determine if any jig received qualified for this promotion and will promptly return any non-qualified jig to the customer. I don't normally use tools like that, so if a need for one arises again, may well just make a cam clamp. But the twist is only real noticeable during side loading such as clamping a non flat item to a flat one and stuff.
But, for budget minded projects or one-time use, a less expensive jig with a reputation for durability and precision is what DIYers or occasional woodworkers will choose. But, most importantly, the top cabinet hardware jigs will work on all styles of doors, including shaker cabinets that have a challenging inset face. Limited to Cont. I also have four of the Irwins but I wont be buying any more soon because they are a little too expensive for my retirement budget. Are you ready to upgrade that Old Pocket Hole Jig for something better?! Images are copyrighted and may not be used without explicit written permission. Dewalt), Entry-grade 3/4 (these are cheaper and lack the feet found on the pro versions), If you are just starting out and wont make cabinets or furniture, go for it.. Also not a fan of the kbody price/usage ratio. Jigs received on trade do not need to be functional, but must include all main component parts (complete jig). Well, to future-proof this drill consider: Unless you projects will include machining metal or precision layouts, there just isnt enough difference between brands to warrant the extra expense. Most things from HF are adequate as long as you don't mind tweaking the tool\item where applicable. And then, Makita vs. Dewalt. I prefer aluminum bar clamps and 1/2 pipe clamps over Bessey K Body clamps. The catch? Very well reasoned and clearly stated.
But, features like ease of bit change, electronic speed control, and a wide range of speed adjustment are also required. If the glue squeezes out ant there is no deformity, then that is tight enuf!!! Heck you really dont need clamps at all if the wood is machined right. FYI, the Bessey 6 F style clamps from Home Depot are a result of oversupply Christmas inventory. Well over half of the emails sent to me are on the subject of tools. Great review. Armor wants you to MAKE THE TRADE to the only fully self adjusting pocket hole jig! The local store I mentioned in the video is Discount Tools in Starkville Mississippi. The plastic is pathetic. Mike. And mostly because I use them heavily for cabinet making and need features like: While HF offers a good selection of plunge, fixed base and trim routers Id make a purchase decision based on: Planning to move to advanced woodworking projects? (clamps, pocket hole joinery, measuring devices, tool stands, etc.). Jeff. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED AS IS AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME. Press J to jump to the feed. They are waaaaaaaay less expensive and I reach for them more frequently in my shop. Simply because sometimes things just don't need to be complicated. That means a 1/2 pipe clamp that is 24 long is $8.50.
I think clamps have a steady middle ground that just seems to work. They also have problems with the handles stripping. If you just need a couple clamps to get by with or you want to invest as little as possible then dealing with the frustrations of Harbor Freight clamps will probably be OK. The best one word description of them is frustrating.. Even at HF, they are $14. That means you keep your jig until we can complete your transaction in full. I use or have a couple of 1/2 in bar clamp. The kreg extra long square bit and square drive screws are very good for pocket holes. I couldnt agree more with your take on clamps. First the docking station is extremely cheap. No complaints so far. The legs are 1.5 thick by 2 wide. I now also have the new versions of the Kreg slide mounting jig(s) and find that they work quite well. They aren't auto adjusting but then again once you set the clamp its set. Or, check out our pocket hole jig guide and start opening doors on a whole new world of projects. I feel like the power isnt there like in traditional F stylebar clamps, the handle is going in the wrong direction, and overall just feel awkward when using them for some reason. Learn why woodworkers prefer a vise like the aptly named for its versatility, compactness and all-wood jaws plus other types of woodworking vises. Yep. Customer will be responsible for shipping cost of any non-qualifying returns. As for the Harbor Freight Tools I have always use them. WE REPEAT. BENCHTOP TOOL ORGANIZERS: The best cabinet hardware jigs are designed to be used for jobs of any size, are made from all metal components and are easy to use. AutomaticallyAdjusting Clamp. If your just looking for a tool you only need here and there than its worth pulling the trigger on a deal. Well, Harbor Freight has been around a long time and expects the same quality of the tools they sell as the brands that order from similar overseas manufacturers. I bought the Kreg. I dont have any experience with the HF F style clamps I can admit to buying things at the HF stores though! Retired in 2004 and sold every tool I used. The Bessey K Body clamps are the strongest clamps I have and create the most stable platform to begin a glue-up but are also the least convenient in my opinion. Pipe clamps are my clamp of choice due to price and flexibility. Luke Troughton said: What I found interesting about the Rockler product was the clamping mechanism to hold the drawer slide. Good article! My favorite clamps are my inexpensive 1/2 pipe clamps. Workbench organization isnt just important for looks. The Best Router for Router Tables and Lifts, The Best Woodworking Vises, Types and How To Mount Them, 9 Unique Tool Brands For Serious Woodworkers, Easy Workbench Organization With These Unique Solutions, The Best Cabinet Hardware Jigs And Templates for Doors, The Best Benchtop Planers for Small Workshops In 2022, Professional Grade Random Orbital Sanders, The Best Woodworking Apron For Your Shop In 2022, Brand names for each type of tool (eg. The self adjusting ones would be handy to use. Keep in mind Harbor Freight has a strong brand to protect and their tools reflect that quality. At least I do. Tip I got from an old cabinet-maker. I made a clean sweep of my shop just a couple of days ago and ALL my Harbor Freight clamps found the way to the trash. I also put a good coat of paste wax on them keeps the glue from sticking to them only have to clean them every two years or so. While you can use a router in a table without a lift, a lift will make your projects easier, faster and arguably improve quality.
However, every single Harbor Freight F style clamp I own has something wrong with it. Theres no reason to drag a cord around the. I found a clamp that is more durable and works better. First time I really had a need for the ACS miter guide. The middle ground seems to be the sweet spot for me. As a discount versus the Kreg system, the Harbor Freight wood pocket hole jig offers a cheaper entry point in an all aluminum body. Jay! They sell for $5.99 all the time in California. But similar to cars and trucks there are just higher priced tools on the market with MORE features you may not always need. Disclosures: (1) If you click a link on this site and buy something I will earn a commission. Why are you trying to put so much pressure on clamps that they break? After 25+ years woodworking theres always room for value tools. Seems to be awfully quiet about Kreg's Adaptive Cutting System, How to Build a Shaker Fireplace Surround - Woodworking. This past week was the first time I ever needed to use the miter guide though.I was rebuilding some shelving in a tiny closet and I discovered theContinue. Once we receive your jig, we will send you a verification email with a $70 credit toward the Auto-Jig base model or Auto-Jig Bundles. Change from a 24 to 3/4 piece of paneling without resetting, just clamp and go!
Once you have a shipping tracking number, fill out the form to the right and hit send. The brands and manufacturers that Harbor Freight uses are frequently made in China. Take that shipping label to the nearest location and ship. This also guarantees you will get the trade and $70 Off. I got hooked on antique boats and bought one. While the mainstream stores stick with mainstream brands, youll find Harbor Freight has lesser known brands bought from the same manufacturers that build name brand tools.
Ive had them for about a year now sitting in the same area as the rest of my clamps and I never seem to reach for them. They still complete the taskbut not without compensating for a bend in the bar or the screw bending off to one side.
I bought a brass wire wheel that goes in my drill to clean the bars on my k bodies makes it a lot easier and wont tear the bar up since the brass is softer. These wont be in depth tool reviews as I know very few people are interested in that kind of thing and I really dont want to go over all the details. As for clamps Harbor Freight will see you the clamps with the round jaw pads. That it, youre done! Report an Issue | Thanks for the tip on the couplings Floyd. Last reply by Jay Boutwell Apr 19. But, choosing the right type of vise and mounting location isnt as obvious as it might seem. It needed a lot of wood work done. Due to the overwhelming amount of response to the Make The Trade Campaign and shipping challenges posed by Covid limitations a longer exchange time can be expected. If I were to rebuild my shop tomorrow I would definitely stock up on 1/2 pipe clampsfirst as I find them to be the best value for the money. Thanks for the video and insight. While you might be familiar with standard brands like Dewalt, Makita and Milwaukee the popular woodworking brands from Harbor Freight include: So how do I know if the tool is junk or worth the spend? You can still participate in the exchange, purchase the Make The Trade shipping label, and it will hold you place in the exchange, but we WILL NOT request you send your jig until the transaction (trade) can be processed within 7 days. Guess what, that's exactly what the original style Kreg mounting jig already has! The spring clamps are also good for holding down a table cloth in the wind, assuming the table surface isnt too thick.
PROFESSIONAL SCREW ORGANIZERS: is a see-through and portable solution for small part and screw organization. You get what you pay for and Id rather have good clamps working well with the cost of wood these days. Automatically Adjust Drill Guide Block to Correct Height. Instead of through 4,5, or 6 different steps like many other pocket hole system. what are you using it for ? Acquired many 3/4 pipe clamps from forsaid neighbor and grandfather. But what most woodworkers miss is the unique tool brands that make woodworking faster, easier and improve quality. Thats a good note Larry, this might be why Ive always had such bad luck with pipe clamps. The Auto-Jig is equipped with our patented Auto-Adjust technology which allow you to clamp varying thicknesses without readjusting your clamp, while maintaining consistent pressure. I read once that "armor tools" held the patent on the self-adjust mechanism that works well. I had several similar tools, from Harbor Freight. Never tried the HF F style myself, i was lucky enough to get a bunch of bessey/ jorgenson ones of various sizes from a former neighbor and grandfather. I have the HF version of the pocket hole tool, really like it with the full aluminum build and the drill bushings. IMHO to each their own, I wont judge you I do scratch my head from time to time when I see people at the counter buying certain items knowing its not going to last. No need to re-invent the wheel here. You can still participate in the exchange, purchase the Make The Trade shipping label, and it will hold you place in the exchange, but we WILL NOT request you send your jig until the transaction (trade) can be processed within 7 days. They are reliable and strong for closing bags of charcoal, fertilizer, dog food, and most anything else. By visiting this website, you opt-in to the use of cookies. Send us your old jig to upgrade to the Armor Auto Auto-Jig! Thanks Jay. Also, the Irwin clamps are nice, but Ive broken a bunch by accidentally squeezing them too hard. They have several and their own Pocket hole jig too. The top of the line is where I think the value diminishes quickly. Lastly, it is constructed of steel, nylon, and blown fiberglass for superior durability.
NOTE: Armor offers Free Standard Shipping on orders over $100. It makes projects easier to start (and finish) and reduces time spent hunting for tools and supplies. You can ship your jig by purchasing our prepaid negotiated shipping rates (way cheaper) to get your trade to our shop. You can produce pocket holes in ONE-STEP. Armor reserved the sole right and discretion to determine if any jig received qualified for this promotion and will promptly return any non-qualified jig to the customer. I don't normally use tools like that, so if a need for one arises again, may well just make a cam clamp. But the twist is only real noticeable during side loading such as clamping a non flat item to a flat one and stuff.