10 Best Pocket Hole Jigs in 2021

Kreg Pocket Hole Jig

Kreg K4 Pocket Hole Jig System

Milescraft Pocket Hole Jig Kit

Show Contents

Hide Contents

Every individual, both professionals and beginners know that having the right tools to carry out the job is a big blessing because it saves you a lot of time and stress. That aside, there are so many tools out there that can be used for different purposes on a particular project, i.e. each tool has its role to play. In this article, we are going to be focusing on pocket hole jigs, for those who are just hearing about pocket hole jigs for the first time here is a simple explanation. Pocket holes jigs are used to drill angled pocket holes into wood and joining them together in cases where you don’t want to overlap. You might be wondering what makes these holes different from others, for starters, they are more robust, and they have a seamless joint. Woodworkers use pocket hole jigs because it helps them upgrade their work. Although this isn’t a multi-purpose tool, it can be beneficial in woodworking projects. Nails are usually not firm on objects that are moved frequently, so they tend to move and sometimes come off after a while. If you notice on objects which tend to be moved a lot, woodworkers prefer to use screws because they tend to hold the joints firmly together and don’t fall off over time. But, the only problem with using screws is that they have very obvious heads which can spoil the beauty of the piece.

Pocket holes were incented because of the damage screws tend to cause to woodworks when they are used, and the jigs for making the pocket holes consistent and accurate were also invented. Pocket holes tend to give you dependable results by holding the screws firmly in place and still maintain the beauty of the work. Pocket holes help you get the holes straight, accurate and consistent and without them this is impossible.

There are some criteria you will need to take into consideration when trying to get the best pocket hole jig for you, and the first and most important of them is to clarify the kind of work you intend to use it for.

How to know a good jig

The first way and also the best way for knowing a good jig is by its accuracy. Accuracy is a significant factor when pocket jigs are concerned because it can either make or destroy your work. The gauges of the tool must be accurate, and they should also come with a robust non-slip clamp to hold the tool firmly when working.

Color of your gauges

One significant factor that most users don’t seem to consider because they feel it is of less significant value is the colour of the gauge. Picking the right colour that will be easy to read in different light conditions is very important. If the colour of the gauge is difficult to read under certain conditions, it can make the work difficult for you and in the long-run, it will affect your eyes negatively.

Durability

Pocket hole jigs just like every other tool have to be very durable in other for you to have real value for your money. Most high-quality pocket hole jigs that can last long might come with a hefty price tag, but that should be the least of your consideration, especially when you know it will last long. We highly recommend that you buy your tools from brands which are already known because it reduces the risk of getting less value for your money. We all know the market now is flooded with different kinds of materials fro different brands, so picking the top brands which have a proven track record is always advisable.

Portable

Convenience is the word most woodworkers are looking for because it helps make their work easier and faster, so a pocket hole jig must be portable and easy to move around. Before purchasing a pocket hole jig, you need to check out the features and specification to know the size and weight.

Capability

As a woodworker, either a professional or a weekend user, you need to know not every pocket hole jig will suit your needs and it important you know its capabilities before purchase. The pocket hole jig that will be used by a professional for his day-to-day wood project will certainly be different from that of the weekend user.

Accessories

The accessories which come with a pocket hole jig or that which can be attached to it can be a deal-breaker in helping you decide what’s best for your use. In trying to find the best pocket hole jig which comes with an accessory, you might find out that the accessories which are attached might make you spend more or are not of the highest quality.

Compactability

It is very important that the pocket hole jig you plan on getting can work with the materials you have available. So, before purchasing a pocket hole jig tool, you must read through to be able to determine if it suits your needs. The average pocket jig works between 0.5-1.5 inches.

Price

It is a known fact that most equipment used in the wood making are quite expensive. Usually, the hefty price tag attached to some of this tool comes with amazing results.

The 10 Best Pocket Hole Jigs Are Reviewed Below

Below is a list of the best pocket hole jigs available in 2020. We hope you find this review helpful and it helps you make an easier decision on what pocket hole jig to buy.

1

Kreg Pocket Hole Jig

Most times you can get frustrated or tired when trying to get the right angle for your woodworking job, but not to worry the Kreg Pocket Hole Jig will make the situation better. The pocket hole jig by Kerg is known to be made from high quality materials with accurate measurements, which makes the process of drilling an angled hole easy and fast making it the best pocket hole machine. You don’t need to worry about the size of the hole because this jig is available in two sizes and they are both portables. It was made easy to use because the pocket hole jig comes with a twist-apart drill guide, clamp adapter and carrying case, while some users love the anti-slip base and removable spacers which was added. It can be easily adjusted, easy to operate and affordable; it covers a variety of DIY products and can be used between 0.5 to 1.5 inches.

Key Features:

  • Two-size option
  • Easy design
  • Anti-slip base
  • Twist-apart drill guides
  • Detachable spaces
  • 0.5-1.5-inch thickness
  • Clamp adapter

Specification:

  • Dimension: 8.38 x 6 x 2 inches
  • Weight: 1.4 pounds
  • Manufacturer: Kreg
  • Material: Glass-filled nylon and Hardened steel
Pros
  • It is easy to operate
  • It is affordable
  • There are two models to choose from
  • An adapter is attached to it
  • It can be used for common DYI materials
  • The manual is easy to use
Cons
  • You will find the storage compartment hard to close
  • Some of the plastic components it is made of are not strong

2

Kreg K4 Pocket Hole Jig System

Are you tired of waiting for the glue you applied to a material to dry?, then the best solution to your problems is the Kreg K4 Pocket Hole Jig System. It comes in eight different models, with each model suitable for a specific task, so you have a wide variety to choose from depending on your task. Even though critics will be impressed by the three-hole drill guide on this system, other additions include six-inch square driver and a stepped drill bit. You can start using it right away has it also comes with a starter Kerg screw set and a pocket hole plug set. It can be used on materials which are either half an inch thick and an inch thick, which shows its versatility. There have been complains by some users of this hole jig denting the wood, and the angled hole doesn’t seem to have much difference. But, if you are looking to save yourself a lot of time, then this is a perfect choice.

Key Features:

  • Eight model
  • Three-hole drill guide
  • Compactable with 0.5-1.5 inch thickness
  • A removable drill guide block
  • Clamping recess
  • Square driver: 6 inches
  • Stepped drill bit attached

Specification:

  • Manufacturer: Kreg Tool
  • Weight: 1.3 pounds
  • Material: Metal and plastic
Pros
  • It is easy to use
  • It has different varieties to choose from
  • It is useful on the various thickness of materials
  • It helps you avoid guesswork
  • You have a repair tool in the drill guide block
Cons
  • The difference between the angle holes is not much
  • The wood can be dented

3

Milescraft Pocket Hole Jig Kit

The Milescraft POcke Hole is the best choice for individuals who want to get the job done, and not spend much. If you wish to build something simple or elaborate, then this hole jig will work just fine, and it comes in two models. Some of its amazing features include thickness settings, adjustable spring-load and a portable storage case. You don’t need to worry about the clamp been in place because it comes with a magnet. His hole jig is very durable, and it comes in imperial and metric measurements. However, there is a little downside to all these amazing features. The manual attached to it is difficult to read, and instead of the usual metal rails, this hole jig has a plastic rail.

Key Features:

  • Four thickness settings
  • Adjustable spring-load
  • Metric and imperial scales
  • Two models
  • Storage case
  • Clamp pocket with magnet

Specification:

  • Dimension: 9.6 x 8 x 2.6 inches
  • Weight: 2.05 pounds
  • Manufacturer: Milescraft, Inc.
  • Material: Plastic
  • Measurement: Imperial
Pros
  • It has a lot of accessories
  • It is affordable
  • It has both metric and imperial measurements
  • It has a four board thickness option
  • It is very durable
  • The clamp is always in place because it has a magnet
  • The thickness can be adjusted
  • It is portable thanks to its convenient storage case
Cons
  • It is not easy to use because the instructions are hard to understand
  • The rail is not made of metal like others, but instead, it is made of plastic

4

General Tools Aluminium Pocket Hole Jig Kit

The pocket jigsaw from General Tools is a unique and one of a kind tool, but before you can know its real abilities, you will have to be able to look beyond its narrow jig clamp and inferior quality. To show you how amazing this tool is, it comes with a lifetime warranty and is also great for both beginners and experts. This tool comes with a lot of accessories attached to it, so you don’t need to bother about getting accessories, and it also comes with a carrying case for your convenience. It is quite affordable, and you get to enjoy built-in clamp, four model options to pick from and a bench-mounted design which is very portable. Although it is not of the best quality out there, the price tag should make you give it a try for your next task.

Key Features:

  • Four model options
  • 76-piece set
  • Carrying case
  • Portable
  • Bench-mounted design
  • Built-in clamping system
  • Lifetime warranty

Specification:

  • Dimension: 2.5 x 9.5 x 9.4 inches
  • Weight: 1.98 pounds
  • Manufacturer: General Tools
  • Material: Wood, Aluminum, Steel
Pros
  • It has different accessories attached to it
  • It has a portable and easy to store carrying case
  • It is affordable
  • It is easy to use
  • It comes with a warranty
  • It comes in four different models
  • It is great for expert and DYI users
Cons
  • It has a narrow jig clamp
  • It is made from steel grade which is not always the best

5

Massca Pocket Jig

The Massca Pocket Jig is the best once you have gotten all your accessories and tool because it doesn’t come with any accessories or drills which is why you have to buy them in advance before purchasing the tool. It has a hardened drill guide, a clamping magnet for your clamps and a base system that can be easily adjusted. Some other additions include the drill depth settings gauge and thickness gauge which is in-built.

Key Features:

  • Adjustable base
  • In-built drill depth gauge
  • The thickness gauge is in-built
  • Hardened drill guide
  • Clamp magnet
  • Thickness compatibility of 0.5-1.5 inches

Specification:

  • Dimension: 5 x 2 x 1 inches
  • Weight: 4.9 ounces
  • Manufacturer: Hopo International LLC
  • Material: Aluminium
Pros
  • It is affordable
  • The magnet it has helps keep your clamp in its position
  • It is easily adjustable
  • It has guide settings
  • The lifespan of the drill guard is longer because I have been hardened
  • It can be used for different materials
Cons
  • There are no accessories attached to it
  • Clamps are not attached to it
  • You can not use it without purchasing a drill bit

6

DuroFox Pocket Jig Kits

Some people think that glue is good for a woodworking project and they are right, but what they don’t know is that a pocket jig is better and saves you a lot of time and stress. The pocket jig from DuroFox will help you have an amazing weekend while doing your woodwork projects. Some of the instruments it comes with are metal drill guide, screw-fastened dual slicer and an engraved ruler. There is no need to buy accessories because it comes with a lot to suit your needs. A nylon material was used to make it, and it has a hardened steel guiding core, but the amazing feature is that it has a magnetic clamp. With all the amazing features, it has a few flaws. The drill bit length doesn’t have any instruction on setting it up, and the driver tip does not fit every screw, but if you can overlook this flaw, then you are going to get a great value for your money.

Key Features:

  • Measuring ruler
  • Dual slicer
  • Metal drill guide
  • Nylon material
  • Steel guiding core
  • Accessories

Specification:

  • Dimension: 12.6 x 4.8 x 2.2 inches
  • Weight: 2.25 pounds
  • Manufacturer: DuroFox
  • Material: Nylon
Pros
  • Affordable price tag
  • Easy to use
  • It comes with all the needed accessories
  • It comes with a ruler for easy measurement
  • It is accurate
  • It has a strong magnetic clamp
Cons
  • The drive tip doesn’t hold screws properly
  • The drill bit length settings don come with instructions

7

Herdmard Pocket Hole Jig System

There have been complains by some users that this pocket hole jig from Herdmard can damage your material, but that might not always be the case. The lots of accessories it comes with should be one positive thing to change your mind about getting this pocket jig. You can be assured that this pocket hole jig is durable and won’t rust over time. Some of the added accessories include drill bits and adapter, and it is great value for both amateurs and professionals. It is quite affordable, easy to use and a great addition to your tools.

Key Features:

  • Dual pockets
  • Aluminium design
  • Drill bit and adapter attached
  • Professional and beginner use

Specification:

  • Material: Metal
  • Dimension: 6.9 x 2.8 x 1.7 inches
  • Weight: 10.4 ounces
  • Manufacturer: GCJD-US
Pros
  • It is easy to use and simple to operate
  • It is affordable
  • It can be used by professionals and beginners
  • It comes with different accessories
  • It is durable and made of high-quality material
  • The size can be easily changed
Cons
  • It can damage your work

8

Jectse Woodworking Hole Drill Guide

The Jectse pocket hole drill is more expensive than most others, but that is because of a very good reason. The design is made from aluminium alloy hole jig, which is very durable and it also comes with great accessories. Some of the amazing accessories include drill bit, stop ring, hole locater of 15-degree, hex wrench, among others. With all the added accessories, there is nothing more you will need to carry out a successful job.

Key Features:

  • Aluminium build
  • Two-way slanted hole
  • 15-degree hole locator
  • Drill bit
  • Hex wrench and stop ring

Specification:

  • Dimension: 9.84 x 7.87 x 3.94 inches
  • Weight: 1.48 pounds
  • Manufacturer: Jectse
  • Material: Aluminium
Pros
  • It is lightweight and compact
  • Great for woodworkers
  • Essential accessories are attached to it
  • It is durable
  • It is easy to use
Cons
  • It is expensive

9

Kreg Pocket Hole Drill Jig

At first sight, you will notice the plastic body on this pocket hole jig which is made from Kerg, and you might feel it is below standard. But, there are other reasons why you would love it, it comes in two different models which you can choose from with a lot of accessories. This hole jig can work on a variety of different inches of materials. Anti-slip base and lifetime drill guide are part of the amazing accessories you could enjoy. It is not difficult to use and very easy when you want to align. Its compact and portable design is one of the things that make it unique.

Key Features:

  • Two models
  • Lifetime drill guide
  • Anti-slip guide
  • Accessories attached

Specification:

  • Dimension: 9.25 x 3.25 x 1.75 inches
  • Weight: 7 ounces
  • Material: Glass-filled nylon, Hardened steel
  • Manufacturer: Kreg Tools
Pros
  • It is easy to use
  • It is compact
  • It is portable
  • It comes in two models which you can pick from
  • It comes with different accessories
  • Alignment is easy
  • It is affordable
  • Its accessories are made from high quality materials
Cons
  • It is made of cheap plastic

10

Trend Pocket Hole Jig Kit

Most people might find this pocket hole jig by Trend quite expensive, but it is worth every penny if you want high-quality tool. Its capabilities and material used for making it are one of the reasons why it has a huge price tag. It has a range of accessories which include 100 screws, and you don’t need to worry about where to sore them because it also comes with a storage bag. It can also be used wi different kinds of woods like MDF, blockboard and plywood, which all have 0.5-1.5 inches of thickness. Added convenience can be assured with fixed pitch, hardened brush and an end stop.

Key Features:

  • Storage bag
  • 100 screws
  • Thickness: 0.5-1.5 inches
  • Hardened brushes
  • Fixed pitch
  • End stop
  • MDF, plywood and blockboard compactable

Specification:

  • Dimension: 11.22 x 3.74 x 5.31 inches
  • Manufacturer: Trend
  • Weight: 7.96 pounds
Pros
  • It has a great design
  • The brand is well known
  • The height can be easily adjusted depending on the material
  • It can be used on different materials
  • An end stop is available
  • Individual joints can be created
Cons
  • It is expensive

Buying Guide Questions

As expected, there are going to be a few questions by people in other to make the decision process easier and perfect and to help them get a better understanding. Below you will find some of the frequently asked questions, and we hope you find the answers quite helpful and satisfactory.

What is the best pocket hole jig? What is a pocket hole jig used for?

Owing the best pocket hole jig might come at a hefty price, but it will be worth the price tag when you finally get to own one. The best pocket jig comes with amazing features and accessories to make your work easier, and the Kreg K5 is the best suited for this purpose. It helps you combine pieces of wood in quick time, and it is very effective. It is great for beginners, and the price is with most peoples budget, but it is worth every penny.

Most people who have come across a pocket hole jig usually find it confusing and difficult to explain its use, but I am here to break it down for you. in simple terms, a pocket hole jig is a mechanical tool that can be used to join two pieces of wood together.

Can you make pocket holes without a jig? How much is a pocket hole jig?

As we all know, almost anything is possible, and the pocket hole jig is no exception, so YES you can make a pocket hole without a jig. But, if it is worth the stress or not is up for you to decide. If you want to make a pocket hole without a jig, you will need a drill. The first drill straight down, then you will have to tip the drill to an angle, then you will have to make sure the bit of the drill exits at the centre of the board thickness or closer. Then here comes the most difficult and trickiest part, you will need to make a pocket and to achieve that you will need a wider bit. You will have to be careful not to go too deep to avoid damaging the wood. This is the process for making a pocket hole without a jig, and now it is left for you to weigh your options to decide which is best for you.

Putting a specific price on a pocket hole jig is impossible because different brands make these tools. In today’s market, it is a known fact that the market is flooded with different tools which perform almost the same function. The price range for pocket hole jig ranges from as low as $6000 to as high as $20000, but most times the price doesn’t reflect the quality. I would advise you to go through this review so you can know which is best for you.

Will any screw work in a pocket hole? Are pocket hole joints strong?

Using just any screw in a pocket hole is not advisable because it might cause cracks or damage the wood, and it is most likely to occur when the screw location is close to the end of the board. To be safe and be sure of a strong pocket hole, it is best to use the appropriate screw.

YES, pocket hole joints are stronger than the regular or average joint, and there are facts to prove back it up. Due to an experiment carried out on a pocket hole joint, it was found to be 35% stronger than a mortise and tenon joint. The mortise and tenon joint failed when a load of 453 pounds was applied on it while that of a pocket hole joint was 707 pounds, hence the 35% difference.

How do you screw into a pocket hole?

Screwing into a pocket hole is an easy task for most users who frequently use pocket hole jig, but for first-timers, it can be a confusing and tough task. We are going to try and make it as easy as possible, so all you need to do is follow the procedure we are going to provide. Here is how it works, on the surface of your work station is where you will clamp the pocket hole jig. After clamping, then you drill angled holes with the help of the special drill bits. After drilling, all you have to do is alignment, and you have to align the two pieces you wish to join together then you drive a pocket screw into it at an angle. With this procedure, you are sure to get the perfect way to screw into a pocket hole, especially if you are a beginner.

Do you need glue with pocket screws?

This is a matter of choice, and what you plan to achieve, so it is really difficult to place a specific answer to this question. But, we strongly advise that you use glue with pocket screws because of shrinking and swelling. Honestly, when you use only screws, the pocket holes are strong, but they will tend o open up during swelling and shrinking, and that is why glue is necessary.

Do you need a pocket hole jig? Does Kreg jig work on 2*4?

Making pocket holes can be easy, quite easy or very difficult, depending on how you carry it out. You can get a pocket drill done by yourself, but it can be a little bit messy, stressful and time-consuming. But, while using a pocket hole jig, you can be assured of neatness, accuracy and it saves you a lot of time. With the help of a pocket hole jig, you can easily carry out the procedure of drilling pocket hole quickly and move from one part to the other easily.

Yes, Kreg jig works on 2*4.

Conclusion

Pocket hole jigs are specialized tools, so it is really difficult to find a lot of them out there presently. From the list above, it should be obvious by now that the Kerg brand is a leading manufacturer when it comes to pocket hole jigs. We hope you found the above guide helpful and you have found the best pocket hole jig to help with all your woodworking needs.