Porter Cable just announced the Quick Jig 560 Pocket Hole Joinery System. We don’t do a ton of these, but it actually looks to be very flexible and built like a tank, so you don’t have to worry about drift when using it repeatably over several pieces. In addition, the 560 has an automatic depth control system that allows for easy set up for different material thicknesses (up to 1-1/2″ thick). That means less setup time and a whole lot less computations on where you’re going to place your holes. There’s even a repeatable self-adjusting clamp that adjusts automatically. Variable spaced bushings allow a variety of positions for the pocket holes and a handy screw length gauge recommends the appropriate screw length for the material thickness. A built-in drill bit collar set up doesn’t need to be changed for different material thicknesses and the removable dust port can be hooked up to a Porter Cable Dust Extractor or standard shop vacuum for easy extraction and removal of debris.
They seem to be taking square aim at the popular and inexpensive Kreg Jig, and looking at this product, they seem to have hit the target head-on. Porter Cable’s solution is certainly more robust and made for repeatability and a long life cycle. Check this out:
Specs
- Weight: 8 lbs
- Material Capacities: 1/2″ to 1-1/2″
- Pocket Bit Diameter: 3/8″
- Pilot Bit Diameter: 5/32″
- Length: 9-3/4″
- Width (housing only): 6-1/2″
- Height: 9″
The Porter Cable QuickJig 560 includes the QuickJig, a 6″ (15.2cm) square drive, a 3″ (7.6cm) square drive, 3/8″ (9.5mm) drill bit, drill bit collar, hex key, 1″ (25.4mm) screws (20), 1-1/4″ (31.7mm) screws (40), 1-1/2″ (38.1mm) screws (40), clamp, and instruction manual.
The Quick Jig is shipping and can be found at specialty woodworking and tool stores at a suggested retail price of $230.
