PC Dovetail jig - router bits?

[Joe T]

Just got the Porter-Cable 4212 d-t jig which includes HSS bits. The bits are not standard sized bits nor available (from PC) in carbide. Question: if I use a different sized (carbide) dovetail bit using the same guide template on hardwoods, will the pins & tails still fit?

TIA.

Joe T.

[Teamcasa]

Only if the angle of the replacement bit is the same as the flare angle in the pattern. Dave

Posted Via Usenet.com Premium Usenet Newsgroup Services

---------------------------------------------------------- ** SPEED ** RETENTION ** COMPLETION ** ANONYMITY **

----------------------------------------------------------

[Frank K.]

Joe,

Whiteside makes a 17/32 7 degree. I just bought two from

. Their number is RD7531. Whiteside doesn't make the

11/32 at this time. I asked them in an email and this is the reply I got.

"Frank, thanks for your message.

We do have two bits for the PC 4212 Dovetail Jig. They are D7-531 (#

43776PC) which is a 17/32", 7 deg., 1/2" shank dovetail bit. The straight that we made for this jig is a 1064A (# 43743PC) and is a 13/32 cut diameter..... These are the two bits that we have produced for that jig.

We know there are others and we hope to be producing them as we learn about the jigs. It is a pleasure to make and provide quality made in the USA cutting tools to go with the jigs that are in the market."

I emailed back asking the about the 13/32 versus the 11/32 that the jig calls for, but haven't received a reply. I will post to the group when I hear from them.

Frank

[Joe T]

Thanks, Frank! Exactly what I was looking for. I also picked up the mini DT template from PC to make small jewelry boxes. Am more apt to use exotic hardwoods on the mini so when Whiteside has them available will place an order.

Joe T.

[Hank Gillette]

From the PC Suplementary Instruction Manual:

"You are not limited to using the router bits supplied with your jig. Other router bits can be used to produce a different look or to work with thicker woods."

'If you choose to purchase alternate through-dovetail bits, keep in mind the following:

1. The dovetail bit must have a 7° angle. This angle matches the tapered fingers used to guide the straight bit.
2. The sum of the diameters of the dovetail and straight bits must equal

15/16". For example, a 5/8" dovetail bit must have a 5/16" straight bit - the sum of both equalling 15/16".

1. The length of the cutter determines the maximum thickness of wood that can be cut. The length of the cutter on the dovetail bit is the maximum thickness of the pin board. The length of the cutter on the straight bit is the maximum thickness of the tail board. If your bits have 1" cutters, you can make through-dovetails with 1" thick boards.
2. Purchase bits that will not cut into the template guides. The template guide used with the dovetail bit has an inside diameter of 21/32". Use bits that will fit into this dimension. Some larger bits might work, but with minimal depth (Fig. 18A).
3. The inside diameter of the template guide used with the straight bit is 17/32". Use straight bits that are smaller than that dimension.'

'Some items to consider when purchasing alternate bits for half-blind dovetails are:

1. A shallow angle of the bit requires a deeper cut. A steeper angle requires a shallower cut.
2. The diameter of the bit should be slightly greater than 1/2". The greater the diameter, the deeper the cut.
3. The bit should have a cutting length at least as long as the cutting depth.'

[CW]

What "flair angle" in what "pattern"?

[Joe T]

Great info...many thanks.

Joe T.