I have been using Kreg jigs for many years now, and have this item's predecessor. While I could not live without it, a few things always bugged me - and they all got fixed in this version. It was enough that purchasing it was a no-brainer.
The biggest improvement is the built-in offset lip with markings for all typical lumber sizes. In the old one I had to actually screw the lip that is used to align to the edge of the board on using two screws - and if I was using 2x material, add a spacer using different size screws - and if I was using anything else I had to measure and line it up manually. Good if I was doing a lot of boards, but a real pain for one or two and worse if I was switching back and forth! With this new model, just press in on the tab and slide the gray guide forward until it snaps into place at the mark for the size board I am using.
Second, with the lip in place, the Kreg clamp I was using was trapped in the jig and if I wanted to use it for something else, or just put it away, I had to unscrew the lip. Done away with in the new model, there is a spot sized for the clamp that is proud of the jig. Very easy.
Third, this comes in a nice little case that holds everything but the clamp. My other was part of a set of Kreg jigs so when I wanted to throw it into the toolbag to go to a work site, I had to put all the parts in, and some would eventually go missing. Now I can put the case into the toolbag, very handy.
Fourth, the jig from the old set that showed where to set the drill stop required me to lift the drill out of it in order to get the stop on, and of course it would sometimes slip when I tightened it so I have to recheck and sometimes adjust. Honestly it was such a pain that I got an extra bit and stop just so I could leave one set for 3/4" material and one for 2x material. In the new model the jig is part of the case AND holds the bit at each end, leaving space for the stop so I can tighten it without moving the bit.
Clearly Kreg is listening to their customers and making very handy and sensible improvements while maintaining their high quality. Like I said, buying this one even though the old one still works was a no-brainer. Now I'll just set up the old one for 2x material and leave it.
| Manufacturer | Kreg Tool Inc |
|---|---|
| Part Number | R3 |
| Item Weight | 1 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 8 x 2.25 x 5 inches |
| Item model number | R3 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Size | Pack of 1 |
| Style | Jig System |
| Material | plastic |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Measurement System | inch |
| Included Components | Pocket-hole Plug Set, Owner’s Manual, Starter Kreg® Screw Set, Stepped drill bit, 6" (152mm) Driver Bit, Kreg Jig® R3, Clamp Pad Adapter, Depth Collar, Allen Wrench, Compact Carrying Case. |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
| Warranty Description | Solid metal drill guide insert assures a clean, accurate pocket hole. Hardened steel drill guides support the drill bit and feature a LIFETIME WARRANTY! 30 day complete satisfaction guarantee |
