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porter cable dove tail jig 5008

8K views 4 replies 4 participants last post by  Mike  
#1 ·
I bought on of these and i am not sure how to use it,My question is what size guide should i use and what size bit?I have the manual but it doesn't say.I know how to use it generally i just need the specifics.
 
#2 ·
Hi Jeff.
Mike posted a copy of the manual. On page 6 it says to use #42027 Template guide & # 43640 1/2" Dovetail Bit. These #'s are Porter Cable part numbers. Page 13 of the manual under accessories gives you all the part numbers you need for 1/2" & 1/4" Dovetails. Just google the Porter Cable numbers to find a description.

The #42027 Template Guide is a 7/16" guide:

  • Distance past base of 5/32-inch
  • 11/32-inch I.D.
  • 7/16-inch O.D.

The #43640 7° Dovetail Bit, HSS, High Speed Steel, 1/2" Cut Width, 1/4" Shank


You can use another brand that fits these descriptions.
 
#3 ·
Regardles of what they say in the manual I do not care for a 7Âş dovetail bit. I would use a 1/2" 14Âş dovetail bit as it makes a much stronger joint.
 
#4 · (Edited)
Hi Mike

But the 14 deg. dovetail bit is for BLIND dovetails only the norm.
Plus the 7 deg.dovetail bit will do both types :) in fact it is a bit stronger because you don't have the ears like with the 14 deg.bit ,that like to snap off very easy..I use the 7 deg.bit on MDF/Plywood and you know that stuff, it will snap off if you you look at it the wrong way. :(

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#5 ·
You raise a valid point BJ. I almost never work with MDF and wouldn't cut dovetails on plywood. About the only time I do use a dovetail bit is for sliding dovetails and the 14Âş bit works much better for this. If you are working with solid wood it also makes for a more eye catching joint.