Leigh, Akeda or PC Dovetail Jig?

[jrohrssen]

I know that the Leigh is probably the preferred jig, with the Akeda a second but which would you all recommend? I'll be using it for small projects, boxes (jewelry, humidors) possibly for drawers on future projects. Is not having variable spacing on the PC that much of a disadvantage? Price wise of course the PC is much cheaper, but will I be sorry if I buy it?

Thanks,

Jay

[Tom Slick]

I just got the PC 4212 and you can do variable spacing, just not infinately variable. you just skip the slots where you don't want a dovetail. it is very easy to setup and use. out of the box it will do 4 different joints. it has an optional template ($80) for miniature joints.
there are a few videos on PC's website that explain it's functionality.

[zootroy]

I'm waiting for the new PC Omnijig. It is supposed to be pretty slick. I should check, it may be out already. I think that the latest issue of Wood had some jig comparisons.

[drumpriest]

I have the Leigh jig, and like it a lot.

[Jeffrey Schronce]

Wait until there are some reviews on the new PC Omnijig. Don't confuse it with the current Omnijig, which is a fine jig but the new one is supposed to give the Leigh a serious run for the money. There is a 16" and 24" version. The link below is to the 16" version.

Zootroy, not availible to the public unti March 2007.

http://www.porter-cable.com/index.asp?e=547&p=6189

Edit : Like Tom and many others I have the 4212. As noted it is varible by skipping certain slots, etc. Check out the PC Website for the Basic and Advanced Manual for the 4212.

[sweensdv]

The current issue of WOOD magazine(March 07) has an article where they reviewed a number of dovetail jigs. As expected, the Leigh D1600($330) was rated Top Tool. The Porter Cable 4212($160) ranked right up there near the top and was given a Top Value rating. Other jigs that received high marks were the Katie Jig KJ12000002($260) and the Keller 1500($160). The prices I quoted were from the article and reflect jigs that are fully equipped for through dovetails.

For whatever reason, they failed to include Akada in their comparison.