Features included with the Kreg K5

• Kreg K5 Base
• 2 Extension Wings
• Dust Collection Port
• Spacer Block
• Stop Block
• Drill Bit Block
• Drill Bit with stop collar
• Driver Bit – 6″
• Starter Screw Set, and Guide Book

Overall the Kreg K5 Jig is a really easy to use product.  It feels rugged enough for the casual woodworker.  A big plus is how sturdy it feels.  Some of the other jigs I’ve seen are a little flimsy and don’t include very good instructions (if any at all).  If you have a project where you’ll need to drill pocket holes, I think you’ll find that the K5 does an excellent job doing this.  It’s reasonably priced at most big box stores that sell Kreg products or online at amazon.

A Few Other Kreg Jigs

The Kreg K4 jig is the jig that I have used the most.  Similar to the K5 but with some obvious differences.  The biggest being that the jigs clamp lever is located in the rear, not the front.  The K4 (as of the date this was written) is still available online, and in big box stores.

The Kreg R3 is an excellent starter jig.  It was the first Kreg Jig I ever owned.  In theory you could do everything you want with just this one jig, although it would be a little difficult.  The R3 is great if you only have a couple boards that need pocket holes.

The Kreg Jig Mini is the most basic pocket hole jig I think has ever been made.  It is especially useful when you find you have missed a pocket hole drill out and you’re in the middle of assembly.  This jig can be easily mounted to a board with a single clamp.

Pocket Hole Picture Frame

I made this picture frame using my Kreg K5 jig.  It’s a simple design that holds a 5×7 picture.  Pocket holes make it very easy to create these types of frames.  Getting the dimensions correct on the inside can be a little tricky.  I’ve included the dimensions that I used, but you may need to adjust a 1/16″ here and there as needed.  Also in case you missed in the video above I go over some of the steps I used to make the frame.

If you make one of these be sure to post a picture of it over on the WoodLogger Facebook Page.  I’d love to see how yours turns out.

Material List

(1) 1″ x 2″ x 4′ – Oak (You can use any wood you like, I chose oak)
(1) 1/8″ x 5″ x 7″ – Hardboard used for backing.
(1) 1/8″ x 5″ x 7″ – Clear acrylic (or glass)

Cut List

(2)  1-1/2″ x 9-3/4″ – Top and bottom
(2)  1-1/2″ x 4-3/4″ – Sides
(1)  4-7/8″ x 6-7/8″ – Hardboard Backing (You may need to make small adjustments to these dimensions)
(1)  5″ x 7″ – Hardboard Backing (You may need to make small adjustments to these dimensions)

Milling & Assembly

	For my frame project I used my K5 jig to cut pocket holes.  I drilled two holes on each side board.
	For assembly, I secured the boards with a clamp.  This is an important step as when you screw your boards together they’ll adjust slightly if there not securely clamped.
	The next step is cut a groove around the inside of the frame.  For this I cut a rabbit along the inside of my frame I used a rabbit bit and cut my notch 1/4″ deep and 1/4″ wide
	After routing out the frame boards, I cleaned up the corners with a chisel.
	Next up I used some oak pocket hole plugs to cover up the pocket holes.  These plugs are sold in many different wood species and do a great job hiding pocket holes.
	Next up, I sanded the whole project and trimmed off the excess pieces of wood from the plugs.
	To finish my frame up.  I cut a frame window and frame back.  You may want to wait and make this your last step to ensure you get the perfect dimensions.

The post Kreg Jig K5 Review with Bonus Picture Frame Project appeared first on WoodLogger.

The Pocket Hole Joinery Book, by Mark Edmunson is put together with these things in mind.  The book lays out eight different projects with basic diagrams and step by step instructions.  My personal favorite was the Blanket Bench project.  The author also includes a comprehensive, yet easy to read intro to pocket holes.  He covers many various types of jigs, clamps, and screws all geared for pocket hole jig owners.

While I really enjoyed this book, my only criticism is that I wish there had been more projects included.  Eight projects are respectful, but I wish there had been a few more included.

I think you will really enjoy this book and the projects included.  I sure did.  If you are considering purchasing this book another title to check out is The Pocket Hole Drilling Jig by Danny Proulx.  I have written a review for this book as well if you’re curious.  Both books really complement each other, and if you are new to pocket holes I think you will find them helpful.  Check out the titles over at Amazon; there both reasonably priced, and I will include links at the bottom of this post where you can pick them up.

The post Pocket Hole Joinery Book – Review appeared first on WoodLogger.

Features

• Includes a good size table top 15″ by 11.5″ in size
• Has a 1/2 hp motor which is strong enough for most applications
• Include six different sized spindles, and starter sand paper
• Intuitive storage space for all your spindles and nut tightening wrench
• Safety switch key for protection
• 1.5″ Dust Port

The sander is able to use six different size sanding spindles.  It includes everything you need to get started.

The WEN spindle sander has a handy base that allows for storage of the spindles, and tightening wrench.  The sander also includes a sawdust exhaust port.

The WEN spindle sander includes a safety key in the front and slots in the base to hold all of the throat plates.

Assembly

The assembly of the WEN Oscillating Spindle Sander was super simple.  Included are instructions that actually make sense.  The spindles slide easily on and off and are secured with a lock nut.  The sandpaper slides on top of the spindle.  Lastly you’ll put a size matching throat plate on the table.  You can easily assemble this in less than 15 minutes.

Summary

I really like the WEN Spindle Sander Model 6510.  This spindle sander is easy to assemble, use, and includes a great variety of spindles.  It’s well priced for what is included and should last for years.  The heavy cast iron table just looks and feels solid.  My only criticism is that this product appears to sold under MANY names.  So you need to do a little shopping to ensure you get the best price.

Looking for more information?  Check out the WEN Spindle Sander 6510 Spindle Sander Manual

The post WEN Spindle Sander 6510 – Review & Assembly appeared first on WoodLogger.

Features

• The device offers two blade speeds: 1620 and 3340
• Two dust collection ports.  One at the back and one at the front.  They are 2-1/2 in. and 4 in. deep.
• Include a standard 3/4” x 3/8” miter slot
• Seven foot power cord
• Upper and lower guards
• The saw has an 8-inch resaw capacity and ball bearing guides to help reduce friction and lengthen blade life.
• Craftsman One Year Limited Warranty
• 45-degree tilting table

A tension indicator is located on the side of the bandsaw.  Adjusting the tension knob on the top of the saw will move the indicator up or down.

The saw includes a large start and bright red safety stop lever.

The saw can be adjusted to cut at two different speeds.  A handy guide is included on the side to make it easy to adjust speeds.

Assembly

The assembly of the Craftsman Bandsaw went smoothly and overall was simple.  I did a quick video of how I assembled it below.  You can easily assemble it in less than an hour.

A nice thing about assembling the Craftsman Bandsaw were the directions.  They were complete and just made sense.  In fact most of the band-saw is already assembled for you.  You will need a few tools to complete the assembly:  Phillips screw driver, adjustable wrench, and a square.  The saw is heavy and I would strongly recommend that two people lift it onto the table when you’re ready to seat it.

Summary

I really like the Craftsman Bandsaw Model BAS350 (00932607000P).  This bandsaw is sturdy accurate and easy to assemble.  It’s well priced for what is included and should last for years.  The heavy cast iron table just looks and feels solid.  It is great for cutting wood, and with adjustable speeds it can be used for other purposes.  It’s extremely rare that I have no criticisms for a product, but honestly I have none at this time.  Perhaps with more use and time I will update this post, but for now it just seems solid.

Looking for more information?  Check out the Crafsman Bandsaw Model BAS350 Manual

The post Craftsman Bandsaw – Review & Assembly appeared first on WoodLogger.

Features

• X-Y axial projecting laser guides provide accurate pre-alignment of drilling location
• Twelve operating speeds (300-3100RPM) allows for drilling in metals or wood and sanding operations
• Dual left and right hubs allow for placement of crank handles on either side of drill head
• Cast Iron work Table designed for wood or metal drilling, tilts up to 45 degrees for bevel drilling
• Spindle travel up to 4″ provides extra depth capacity
• Adjustment depth gauge allows for accurate repetitive drilling
• Adjustable goose-neck work light for better illumination of work area

The drill press has 12 speeds from 300 rpm to 3100 rpm which can be adjusted by moving pulleys in the top of the drill press.  Moving these around are a snap and a helpful chart is included that gives suggested speeds based on material type and drill bits.

Another nice thing included with the drill press is an adjustable drill gauge.  This allows for repetitive and accurate drilling.  The gauge has a quick release that allows it to move up and down quickly.

A laser cross beam is included with the drill press allowing for precise drilling.  The instructions include detailed information on how to align this.  Fortunately for me the laser was lined up perfectly out of the box.

Three handles that can be attached on either the left or right side are included.  So whether you’re right or left handed it’s not a problem.  The handles are a nice size and make it easy to grasp.

The drill press also has a really nice(and large) cast iron table.  It includes  a well for those who may use it for drilling metal.  Another nice feature is that it can be rotated and tilts up to 45 degrees for bevel drilling.

Assembly

The assembly of the drill press was very simple.  I did a quick video of how I assembled it below.  You can easily complete it in less than 30 minutes.

Summary

I REALLY like this drill press.  The Porter Cable Drill Press is sturdy accurate and easy to assemble.  It’s very well priced for what is included and should last for years.  The laser pointer was aligned right out of the box and required no adjustments.  The heavy cast iron table just looks and feels solid.  It is good for wood or metal drilling.  My only criticism of the product is that the work light seems a little dated compared to other models that include an LED light.  This is a really minor complaint; especially considering many will not even require a work light.

The post Porter Cable Drill Press – Review & Assembly appeared first on WoodLogger.

The book is broken down into 4 major sections: getting started, start turning, marketing and selling your work, and gallery.  I go more into detail below about each of the sections below.  The largest (and best section) is the actual projects that he demonstrates.  This section contains a wide variety of projects, from pens, to kit projects, to bowls.

This really is a great book for woodturners and I actually got to meet Barry at a woodworker show and he did a presentation where he turned some pens.  I found him to be extremely knowledgeable and and a delight to speak with.

The post Learn to Turn – Book Review appeared first on WoodLogger.

The first thing you’ll notice with the Dewalt Planer is just how solid the whole tool feels.  This is a bench-top tool after all, but on the right cart it doesn’t feel like it.  Dewalt has always had that rugged “this thing is probably gonna last” feeling to it.  Another feature that was noticeable right away were the in-feed and out-feed tables.  The tables fold up to save space however, one annoyance is that if you attach the back dust hood you cannot fold up the back table.  It will have to remain down.  Not a huge deal, but if you want to store the planer with the hood attached keep that in mind.

Another nicety is the cord storage; there are hinges that the cord can be wound up on.  If you’re going to find a permanent home for your planer this may not be a big deal, but for the rest of us it’s a handy thing to have.  Along the same lines if you’re going to need to move you’re planer around a lot it does have a nice set of handles on the top that make it easy to move.  The planer weighs approx. 80 lbs. so I would recommend building or purchasing a cart for it.  You’ll do your back a favor if you do.  Dewalt makes a good-looking cool cart I have a link to it at the bottom of the post, definitely worth a look.

Another great feature on the planer is a depth gauge that allows you to dial in exactly how much you want to take off.  You simply slide your board into the front where the Material Removal Gauge is(click on the picture on the right to see a close-up of the gauge).  Then you just crank up or down to the  depth you need.  The gauge goes up to 1/8 of an inch.  I usually do 1/32″ or 1/16″ and haven’t seen any problems.

One thing that you quickly learn about planers is just how much saw dust they create.  Depending on how many passes you need to make you can quickly feel a trash can full of sawdust.  Really..!  The Dewalt DW734 planer makes it a quite a bit less painful with the included dust hood.  You simply attach the dust hood to the back of the planer and attach it to your dust collection system.  If you don’t have a dust collection system I would recommend that you attach your shop vac to the end connector.  You can pick up an adapter if needed at most places where they sell shop vacs.  It’s worth doing considering the amount of sawdust that gets kicked out.

Summary

In conclusion I REALLY like this planer.  The Dewalt DW734 Planer is sturdy, accurate, and easy to use.  Dewalt products have a reputation as being dependable.  To date, I have not experienced any issues with mine.  With quality usually comes added price and with this planner there is no exception to that rule.  It’s a little pricey, but considering what you’re using this for I would go with the better model.  My only criticism of the product is that when you have the dust hood attached to the back of the planer there is no way to fold up the back table.  Not a major deal, but in my small shop it’s definitely a small inconvenience.  If you’re looking to purchase one check it out over at Amazon.

Looking for more information?  Check out the Dewalt DW734 Planer Manual

The post Dewalt DW734 Planer – Review appeared first on WoodLogger.

If you don’t have a drill press, (or even if you do) the Jig It Drill Guide by Rocker is a great little jig.  For those who don’t have a drill press but want to use forstner bits; the drill guide helps keep your power drill steady allowing for more precise holes.  For those who do have a drill press there are certain times when it’s just not possible to use it.  I needed to drill some bench dog holes into my workbench.  I wanted to use a forstner bit with my power drill.  The Jig It Drill Guide made this easy.  It kept my power drill steady, and the end result was a perfectly centered hole.

What it is:

• Made of a sturdy plastic
• The Drill Guide has an Interior Diameter:  3-½”
• The Drill Guide Measures:  2-½” high
• The Jig It Drill Guide comes with the basic guide.

What you’ll want to go with it:

• Long Shank Drill Bits from Rocker:  Various Sizes
• 3/8” Stop Collar to set the depth of the drill

Overall I really like this jig.  It’s rugged, and is that jig you need when you want to use Forstner Bits and it’s just not possible to use with a drill press.  It’s also a Rockler product and they always make great stuff, and its pretty reasonable priced.

The post Jig It Drill Guide by Rockler – Review appeared first on WoodLogger.

The first thing I have to say about the Craftsman Orbital Jig Saw is that it’s more rugged and certainly feels more durable.  It’s a little bulkier than some of the other saw’s I’ve use, but it handles very nicely.  The grip handle has a hard rubber feel to it.  It also has a nice feature where you can remove the handle from the top and use the bottom of the drill as a barrel grip.  It has a rotating cut head on the top of the drill.  I haven’t found a use for that yet, but I suppose it’s beneficial to some.  It also has a laser trac attached to it to help with cutting straight lines.

I purchased my Craftsman Orbital Jig Saw 28223 from Sears.  I’ve been using it for a few months now, and it seems really solid.  In fact this is my third jig saw that I’ve owned and is by far my favorite.  It just feels rugged.  I picked mine up for around $70, and also bought a blade holder(it’s definitely “a nice to have”).

If you’ve read any of my other reviews of Craftsman product then you already know that I have mixed feeling about Craftsman tools.  Craftsman hand tools are hands down the best in the world.  No one beats them, and the warranty they offer.  Power tools on the other hand are a different story.  I think as a general rule high-end Craftsman power tools are usually pretty solid, but if you get the low-end or middle models of a craftsman power tool it’s a bit of a gamble.

• Jig Saw
• 2 blades
• Dust tube
• Hex Key
• Carry Bag
• Manual

Here is some more basic info about the saw:

• Has a 2-in-1 design that allow you to remove the grip handle and use as a barrel grip.
• Has a 6 amp, 800 to 3000 SPM variable speed motor.
• Has Laser Trac
• Has a variable speed based on pressure of handle
• Has 5 cutting modes
  • Scrolling 360
  • Smooth
  • Low
  • Medium
  • Fast
• Bevel cutting capacity 0° to 45° left to right
• Built-in LED Work light
• Blade storage in base
• Carrying Bag

The post Craftsman Orbital Jig Saw – Review appeared first on WoodLogger.

The drill was actually purchased as part of a kit (model# 935704).  The kit includes the following items:

• DD2100 Heavy Duty Drill/Driver
• CH2030 Multi-Chemistry Charger
• PP2020 XCP 19.2-Volt Compact Lithium-Ion Battery Pack
• 2 Double Ended Screwdriver Bits
• Tool Bag
• Operator’s Manuals

If you’ve read any of my other reviews of Craftsman product then you already know that I have mixed feeling about Craftsman tools.  Craftsman hand tools are hands down the best in the world.  No one beats them, and the warranty they offer.  Power tools on the other hand are a different story.  I think as a general rule high-end Craftsman power tools are usually pretty solid, but if you get the low-end or middle models of a craftsman power tool it’s a bit of a gamble.

The first thing I have to say about the new drill is the size and weight is a big improvement over my old drill.  It’s more compact making it easier to use in tight spaces.  The handle and grip is also wrapped with a soft rubber grip.  Another plus is it just feels more powerful when I’m using it.  The manual states that the new battery technology XCP gives the drill 10% more torque than other lithium batteries.  I’m not sure if it’s the battery, or the fact that my old drill was 12 years old.  Either way it’s a more powerful drill which is always a good thing.  Here is some basic info about the drill:

• Two variable speed gear box with ranges 0-375 / 0-1,600 RPM
• Powerful motor up to 465 in-lbs. with forward and reverse selector
• 24 – position adjustable torque clutch
• 1/2″ all metal, single sleeve keyless chuck
• Micro texture grip
• 19.2 volt compatible lithium-ion battery
• Built-in LED Work light
• 1 year warranty

The new battery technology XCP is supposed to give your 19.2 tools more torque.  More power is almost always a good thing.  Another nice thing is the light that shows you when your battery is getting low.  It switches green to yellow to red to alert you how much energy is left.  Here are some of the features listed about the battery:

• Up to 35% more run time
• Up to 10% more torque
• Extreme Weather Performance (Operates in temperatures from 5° to 158° F)
• Energy indicator light on battery

The new charger that is included as part of the kit is also solid.  I’ve used it to charge three different types of batteries.  It’s designed for the 19.2 battery line and it’s really nice that it can handle all the flavors of that voltage.  It has light indicators to tell you what type of battery is being charged and what the status of the battery is.

Overall I really like the entire kit that Sears has put together.  The drill, battery, and charger all seem solid, and they even throw in a storage bag to keep it all in.  The drill feels lite, but strong and I believe will last for many years.  I think if you’re a casual woodworker like me, then this is probably a good fit for you.

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