Dovetail Bits

[Rich Torino]

On my list for 2006 is a dovetail jig. There is plenty of good info and reviews on the Creek to help one make a decision ie. Porta Cable, Leigh, Akeda...
The question I do have is on router bits. They seem to come in 7 degree, 8 degree and 14 degree. Is there a convention that says you should use one or the other for a certain application or is it strictly for aesthetics???

Thanks

Rich

[Jim Becker]

Don't buy any bits until you select your jig...they often have specific requirements and sometimes, specific bits.

In general, wider angles tend to be used in softwoods and narrower angles in hardwoods. Some of that has to do with strength of the wood fibers.

[Travis Porter]

I agree with Jim. Don't buy any bits. You may need certain angles, extra long bits, etc.

[Jeff Borges]

I'll second that...(third it??) buy the bits after you buy the machine...

I really like my Leigh Jig..its a bit higher on the learning curve.. but it is adjustable.. and I have used that feature.

I use a Porter Cable 690.. and it works fine for all woods..no complaints from my shop on the leigh jig (or the Leigh bits)


Jeff