Workers Of Wood

I notice that the Microjig 14 degree 1/2" dovetail bit is considerably more expensive than e.g. a Freud bit. Theoretically, there are some refined details.
Anybody used one, and it it worth the 50% premium?

Biagio wrote: ↑Tue Nov 24, 2020 4:13 am I notice that the Microjig 14 degree 1/2" dovetail bit is considerably more expensive than e.g. a Freud bit. Theoretically, there are some refined details.
Anybody used one, and it it worth the 50% premium?

Not sure about the bits, but I have been eyeing microjig setups for a while now! I would likely buy their bit for the “system” and keep my other bit for my Leigh jig....

I've not used any microjig bits but for the most part you should look at some things to compare among the various suppliers...

Certainly the big boys (Whiteside, Freud, Infinity, etc...) all seem to have the same characteristics...more carbide, stay sharper longer, take more sharpenings, better bond of carbide to steel, etc...

There is an obvious difference between the microjig and others and that is the extra rounding that it cuts at the smaller part of the bit (shank side). If that is a desirable effect, then it might be tough finding it in other suppliers...

See...https://www.microjig.com/products/dovetail-bit-14-12
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As far as the bit goes, I tend to go with Whiteside, then others (Freud/infinity) according to what is required/available. As far as “custom cut characteristics” on the Microjig bit, I couldn’t tell you. Is it proprietary/required for their jig system?

Microjig's bit seems to be more for making dovetail slides or tracks for tools/clamps, etc...hence the rounding it does at the cut. (I'm thinkin')

I can't imagine using this to make dovetails with that rounding effect...

Agreed, Nick, but the Microjig clamps and other fittings should fit any 14 degree dovetail slot of the same dimensions. They say the dovetail tips are slightly rounded, and claim the dovetail is extra smooth as a result. Then there is the rounding of the throat of the dovetail, which I can imagine gives a slightly more durable edge, perhaps less prone to splintering, but I doubt it makes the holding power of the dovetail any greater.
Hence I was asking whether anybody has used the bit, and whether it is worth 50% more than a same-size Freud bit.

I agree with you Biagio that any 14 degree bit should work as long as the width of cut is the same. Or use a smaller bit and double cut the groove. I would guess that the rounding part is to keep from leaving a thin brittle edge on the groove that would be prone to chip out or also possibly bend up and cause hang ups.