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Introduction to the Variable Router Jig by Woodpeckers
Hi, I’m Andy from workshop-addict.com, and today we’re taking a quick peek at Woodpeckers’ latest one-time tool – the Variable Router Jig. In this article, we will discuss what’s included in the package, how to assemble the jig, and demonstrate how to use it effectively in your woodworking projects.
What’s Included in the Variable Router Jig Package
The Variable Router Jig comes complete with:
– 4 18-inch long tracks that are engraved in both inch and metric scales
– 4 lock bars and hardware to lock the tracks together
– 4 clamp brackets to clamp the jig down to your table
– A hex ball wrench to lock everything together
Connecting the Tracks and Assembling the System
Connecting the tracks and assembling the system is extremely easy. First, you put the locking bar in the side of one of the tracks (note that the prototype model mentioned here is 3D printed, while the production units will be of much higher quality). Then, you insert the hardware into the slots and connect the bolts using the long ball-tipped Allen wrench or hex wrench provided. The beautiful thing about this is there are two connecting points, ensuring that everything gets lined up, squared, and secured very well.
Once you have it assembled, simply loosen the bolts, and you are able to slide the tracks back and forth wherever you need them. The included stainless steel clamp brackets allow you to clamp the jig down to your table and apply clamping force without impeding the work surface that the router may slide on.
Who is the Variable Router Jig Suitable For?
Some people rely on routers for various operations in their shop and often make single, one-time-use jigs to accomplish the task, then discard them. The Variable Router Jig could be an excellent solution for these folks. However, in our shop, we use different setups and other tools to accomplish these tasks, so the router’s role is limited, making the jig a niche tool for specific individuals who frequently use routers in their shop.
The Variable Router Jig is a similar product to the MFS by Festool, which is no longer available. If you had your eye on that product and can no longer access it, here’s your chance to get something similar – and possibly even better. Woodpeckers have designed this with improvements, including a longer wrench for easier adjustment, two self-squaring points, and excellent ease of use when adjusting the size and shape of the opening you need.
Optional Longer Tracks and Uses for the Jig
In the basic kit, you get four 18-inch tracks. However, you can buy optional longer tracks or multiple tracks if you use a router often in your shop. With a bit of creativity, people have come up with various uses for this jig, including stair treads for mortising actual treads into the stringers of steps.
The more you bring this jig into your shop and use it every day, the more uses and benefits you will find. However, for us, we could not justify the cost based on our limited router usage. That said, when we do use a router, we invest time and resources in one-time-use jigs, which could be reduced if we invested in the Variable Router Jig instead. In the long run, this could save time and money.
Demonstration and Possible Applications
As demonstrated, the jig can be used for creating a pocket mortise inlay. With this simple geometry, it can be adapted to a wide range of applications – for instance, making router table plate insets for a shop-made router table.
As previously mentioned, our router usage in the shop is limited. Moreover, the Variable Router Jig is quite an expensive tool. For rare instances, it may not be justifiable for some shops. However, for those who frequently use routers, this jig could prove to be a valuable investment.
Feel free to drop any questions, comments, or concerns in the comment section below, and we’ll be happy to help. Additionally, follow us on social media for product review updates, project updates, and exclusive social media giveaways.
I’m Andy from workshop-addict.com, and I hope this article has been informative and helpful in introducing you to the Woodpeckers Variable Router Jig. Thanks for reading, and see you next time!
This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through links. Learn more on my Private Policy page.
I would like to see more examples of what it could be used for #workshopaddict
Seems like a nice improvement over the Festool version, which has issues with how the extrusions attach.
But, I already have the Festool one, so would pass on this.
from the video introduction, I'll say the tool sucks.
Expensive as hell when you can easily make one from scrape wood.
Also putting it together seems tedious.
Looks like the price will be $199.99:
https://www.woodpeck.com/variable-router-jig.html
I do like this tool , but it's not one that most people would use much, including myself and at it's current price it's not a tool I would invest that much money to acquire. Just as you have concluded ! So for now I'll stick to single use home made jigs ! Although I'll gladly take one in your next tool giveaway !
a very nice presentation you said multiple times it is very expensive. Well it would have been nice to know how much. are we talking $500 or$1500 +? What is too expensive for one person might not be for someone else. It will all hinge on the individual budgets . Thanks.