MLCS Pins and Tails Through Dovetail Template Large with 1/2" Shank Bits

In terms of how this template is supposed to function, it absolutely does the job and is well made. If you are considering purchasing I can offer some suggestions. First, it's not clear to me that it is that much easier to use a template like this than hand cutting dovetails. I bought it in order to do some quick carcass work, where the dovetail joint is not seen. The problem I have experienced is that tear out is hard to avoid with the template. Second, the other reviewers are right that the instructions could be improved, though they are mostly complete and correct. When setting up the jig for the first time you need to work carefully and systematically--it is a fine line between a dovetail that is too tight or too loose. Make sure the jig is perfectly square to the wood block you attach it to because you usually cut pins and tails at either end of the jig and also ensure your workpiece is dead flat against the jig. I used a piece of wood as a "strap" and clamped each end to hold the workpiece against the wood part of the jig, and that worked well.

Do yourself a favor .... get some medium locktite and put a drop on your router bushing threads when you are tightening it up. I didn't and wasted a bit and bushing when the bushing came loose and spun.I purchased both the small and the large pins ... and I've made a lot of hope chests with the large pins. once you set it up it's a no brainer from then on.Don't rely on cheap clamps to hold your workpiece to the fixture, however, buy some good quality clamps that won't slip, especially if used on a router table.Set up the first cut then clamp a stop block in place ... makes the next three cuts identical ... when you switch to the other side, set up the first cut then put a stop block in place ....Makes your project a lot easier to complete with very predictable results once you add the stop block.

It took me a couple of hours and about four cuts to get it adjusted the way I like, but won't need to do that anymore. Make sure you order the right size shank for your router (1/4" or 1/2"). You will probably want to have two (2) routers so you can set the depths and leave them alone for each project.

Too much fuss to make this into a jig that is easy to use. Bought a porter cable which is a complete product

very nice for blanket chest sides where length doesn't matter and the size of the dovetails is flexable

great product

Work's perfect once you get it dialed in right.