A few days ago, we talked a bit about Woodpeckers’ new shelf pin drilling jig. Since then, I remembered that Lee Valley sells a similar system by Veritas, and decided that a comparison was in order.
When it comes to features, I think that Woodpeckers’ jig (pictured below) has an edge over Veritas’ jig (above) since its floating third rail allows for a plunge router to be used to bore the holes. Even when using self-centering bits or regular bits with guide bushings, a handheld corded or cordless drill won’t be as stable as a properly supported router.
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Woodpeckers’ jig raises the workpiece slightly off of a table or work surface, making through-holes easier to drill without a sacrificial backer board. At the very least, raising the workpiece in such a manner reduces the risk of damaging it.
For an extra cost, the Veritas system can be expanded, making the system a bit more versatile. It looks like Woodpeckers’ jig uses 1/4″ or 5/16″ threaded rod, and if so, it should be expandable as well.
Veritas’ system includes a set of 10 bushings that can be used with a range of metric and inch drill bit sizes. Woodpeckers’ jig can only be used with self-centering bits or router bits with a bushing template unless a separate guide block is purchased.
Conclusion
When you compare both jigs, there is no clear cut winner. Woodpeckers’ jig is a little more innovative and more flexible and quicker use, but Veritas’ jig is more complete and expandable. Both are high quality products, and the prices are comparable – $169 for the Veritas starter set, and $155 for the Woodpeckers set with optional 3-hole guide ($130+25).
If you forego the optional guide bushing set, Woodpeckers has a clear advantage in price without being too far behind in terms of available features.
Veritas Shelf Pin Drilling Jig
Woodpeckers Shelf Pin Drilling Jig
Veritas’ jig is made in Canada, Woodpeckers’ jig is made in the USA.
Don’t forget, we’re still giving away a $50 Woodpeckers gift card!
IndyEngineer
I like the Woodpecker Pin Drilling Jig better. I don’t own either brand of jig but if I was going to choose on quality alone, I would choose the Woodpecker brand. The lower price is an added bonus.
Jon
I have used the Veritas system for 20 years. The quality is perfect. This is the better system.
Fran Wilson
Are these Veritas & Wodpeckers shelf drilling jigs spaced at 1″ or 1 1/4″?
robert merrill
As the Woodpeckers jig is described as lifting the workpiece above the surface facilitating through bores with out the use of a sacrificial backer board I would caution to be aware of the tear out that occurs when drilling through without said board. Most especially when working with expensive materials. You risk making them even more expensive. To you!! The customer doesn’t like to pay for your mistakes nor inferior workmanship.
Steven Cain
I can’t find the Woodpecker jig for sale anywhere!
Stuart
I guess they discontinued it? If you contact Woodpeckers, they might be able to tell you if/when they’ll produce these jig again.