Kreg R3 vs K4 Jig Comparison

Kreg R3 vs K4

Kreg R3 vs K4 which of these small pocket hole jig kits should you buy?

If you are looking at trying your hand at some pocket hole joinery then using a pocket hole jig will make life a whole lot easier not to mention more accurate joins.

Lets take a look at each of the jigs from Kreg and then have a quick comparison at the end.


Kreg R3 Review

Kreg R3 Review

The Kreg R3 is a two hole pocket jig that is capable of drilling in materials from 1/2 inch to 1-1/2 inches. Like all Kreg jigs the drill guides are hardened steel and come with a lifetime warranty.

It has nine depth settings that are adjusted by changing the positioning sliders. Each depth can be adjusted by 1/8 of an inch each time.

Although the R3 can handle pieces up to 1-1/2 inches deep it can only drill two holes at a time. If you are drilling larger pieces that require the regular three screws then it can be a bit of a pain having re-align the jig on your work piece to make the final third hole.

The R3 is suitable for small job and beginners who are looking to wet there teeth in pocket hole joinery. It is probably as simple as a pocket hole jig can get. 

Included in the kit is the two hole jig, 2 inch face clamp, plastic carry case, bit and collar guide.


Kreg K4

Kreg K4

The K4 from Kreg is a three hole pocket hole jig. It can drill material from 1/2 inch to 1-1/2 inches.

Included in the kit is the 3 hole jig, premium face clamp, bit and collar. There is also 500 1-1/4 inch screws. 

The 500 1-1/4 inch screws are self-tappers and are designed specifically for pocket hole joins. They have a self tapping auger tip, eliminating the need for pre-drilling which is quite the time saver.

The face clamp supplied comes with an over-sized face to help secure your work pieces.

You can also see a comparison with the newer K5 jig kit here Kreg K4 vs K5.

Specifications

  • 3 hole drill guide
  • Face clamp included
  • Drilling depth 1/2 to 1-1/2 inhces
  • Includes 500 1-1/4 inch screws

Kreg R3 vs K4

Kreg R3 vs K4 which on is better?

Well the R3 is really only suitable for smaller jobs given that it can only drill two holes at a time. The K4 on the other hand is capable of drilling or screwing the self-tappers three at a time which will give a much stronger join especially on larger pieces.

The K4 is the clear winner if you intend on doing any kind of regular joining or are joining larger pieces that require at least three scews.

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