Kreg tool changes the way you work

Jim, I agree with your assessment – this may just be the best woodworking tool ever created – at least in the area of assembly tools.

-- Bill - "Suit yourself and let the rest be pleased." http://www.cajunpen.com/

I have the new set up which is similar to yours. I think yours has more metal and the benchplate is much larger. It looks like it works the same. About 4 more kitchen jobs and I think I want the Foreman. Doing a kitchen with one like this is fast but makes my shoulders tired. A great set up.

-- Thos. Angle, Jordan Valley, Oregon

Very impressive Jim. Thanks for sharing.

-- Grumpy - "Always look on the bright side of life"- Monty Python

I have a K3 system which I haven’t used yet. Waiting for a project that call for it.

-- Gary - Never pass up the opportunity to make a mistake look like you planned it that way - Tyler, TX

As an alternative (and nothing against the Kreg system), the Penn State Industries pocket hole set may also be of interest. I’m not affiliated in any way … but I bought a set from them recently that was a factory second because something was the wrong color … the case maybe. However you drill ‘em, though, pocket holes are very useful.

I am currently in the process of reinventing my workshop and putting in cabinets. Am using a kreg jig to do all the joinery and love it. Quite the time saver.

-- Those that say it can't be done should not interrupt those who are doing it.

I am on my 2nd Kreg system. I bought the orignal cast metal Kreg tool at the 1st WW show I attended years ago – and it quickly became my overall favorite tool. Part of the reason for it’s success are the specialized screws they offer. Because they are self-tapping the amount of time saved over drilling pilot holes is incredible. I also quickly found that pocket holes work extremely well with 2x framing. Instead of using toe-nailing for end studs I drill a series of pocket holes around the base and fasten that way. Result is a much stronger joint with no splitting ( I have never seen an end of stud toe-nail that did not split the wood eventually – it’s a technique that should be outlawed in framing code if you ask me).
Over the years I have gone thru thousands of Kreg screws – I buy more every show I go to because they offer better pricing there. I upgraded to the current K3 system a few years ago because of the adjustable height and vacuum attachment, though I still use my original Kreg – the hardened guides just won’t wear out!

-- Rick - OC, CA

I posted this comment on David's review of the Kreg system, but thought I should add some of it here as well.

I just bought the Kreg master system, and started working on it yesterday. I am building a face frame cabinet like the booklet suggests. I began the face frame last night, which is made of Oak. My first piece cracked, but not from over tightening. I was using the fine thread screws, but it still cracked.

This morning I was reading the Kreg site, and they made the following suggestions:

1 – be sure to use fine threads on Oak and other hardwoods
2- use a smaller shank screw if having splits
3 – slow down when driving the screws in place

I just received my McFeely screws, so I will try some of them as well. So far I like the Kreg master jig set. It it quick and easy to use. I expect to be using it a lot more in my projects.

-- Bill, Turlock California, http://www.brookswoodworks.com