I own the 24” Leigh Jig. It is a very well made and designed jig. It does take some practice to set up the jig and some time learning all the steps involved.
I just saw the new Porter Cable Omnijig at the Atlanta Woodworking Show a couple of weeks ago, and I was impressed with it. The one thing that did look like an improvement over the Leigh Jig was that once set up the Omnijig was easier to repeat the set up due to built-in stops.
The Omnijig and Leigh Jig are actually closer in price than you think. The dust collection is standard on the Omnijig, where as you have to purchase the dust collection attachment separately with the Leigh Jig. This makes the price very close between the two, so that shouldn’t play into your decision making.
If possible get your hands on both and see what you think. I know Woodcraft sells the Leigh Jig and they’ll probably sell the new Omnijig when it comes out. Ask them to see a demo of the products. This is a significant investment of funds into a jig so try to use both before you buy.
Also, think about what you’re going to be using the jig for. Are you just going to be using it on occasion? Or are you cranking out drawers? The only reason I ask this is because I didn’t ask this question myself years ago when I bought the Leigh Jig. It does work beautifully, but it now just sits on a self in my shop collecting dust. If I want to make dovetails for a project now, I hand cut them. It’s more enjoyable and looks better as well.
Now, before you go and say, “I’ll never learn to make hand-cut dovetails”, just remember, I said the same thing myself!
I hope I haven’t muddy the waters further for you. Just want you to make the best decision, and look at as many options as possible.
-- Craig, www.WoodworkersResource.com (Where Information meets Inspiration)
