Dowelmax Classic 3/8 Joining System
Click the Magnifier Symbol for Larger Pictures Classic 3/8 includes the 1/8 spacer for centering on 1″ wood NEW Machined 1/16″ Slotted Spacer Plate Enables Centering […]
Click the Magnifier Symbol for Larger Pictures
Classic 3/8 includes the 1/8 spacer for centering on 1″ wood
NEW Machined 1/16″ Slotted Spacer Plate Enables Centering on 7/8″ Stock (and also 5/8″ Stock When Used in Conjunction with the 1/8″ Spacer Plate from the 1/4 Drill Guide Package).
Our updated Classic features substantially improved parts, materials and tolerances. The construction of the device has been made more robust, making it more stable and accurate in operation than ever before. The brass parts are made of premium material with increased sizes, and improved knurling for easier adjustment and greater user satisfaction.
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49 reviews for Dowelmax Classic 3/8 Joining System
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Price range: $ 195.00 through $ 265.00
Read More This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page$ 89.00
Frank Bogdan –
Well I finally got to use my Dowelmax and was very impressed with the quality and the fact that it performed, as it did on the demonstration video, even for me! The simplicity of set up and accuracy are astounding. I, like many others, have tried various dowelling jigs. Some worked adequately, others, not so much. This tool performs it’s function very well indeed. Thanks for manufacturing a fine tool.
Stuart Halloran –
I have owned a Dowel Max for maybe 4 years now. Initially I had a job building a set of security doors using 20/4 cherry with a 1/2″ steel plate inside. These monsters weighed a ton and we were worried about the long term stability. I didn’t trust biscuits for this, and found the Dowel Max online. The joints were 3 rows of six dowels each, and the holes were so precise that assembly was a piece of cake. I still see this site on a regular basis and there has been no change in the joints despite the weight and the frequent use. As to the jig, even with regular use it is as accurate as it was the day I pulled it out of the box. Not a cheap tool but well worth the cost.
Jim Beach –
Think I have had a Dowelmax for at least 15 years maybe more. Bought it at a wood show in Calgary. This tool is exceptional. If you are used to inaccurate doweling jigs then this one will change your mind in a hurry. Simple to use once to get the brain memory imprinted, it becomes second nature. Have made a few different spacers over the year to accommodate the different offsets needed for some jobs. If you only own one dwelling jig then this is the one to own. This one of those tools where you cry once at the start because of the price you pay, however when you buy an inferior tool you will cry every time you use it.
Thanks for great tool, smile every time I use it.
The original brass knobs were a little small, glad to see the update has a slightly larger grip surface.
Tom Sardina –
I couldn’t get over the quality of this jig. It really has to be held to believe. I’ve been using the Dowelmax for about six months now on a dozen or so fine furniture projects. It’s super simple to use, deadly accurate and made my job a hell of a lot easier. I can now focus on building more furniture rather than having to get bogged down with joinery.
And at 1/3 of the price of a Domino it was money well spent. Couldn’t recommend it more highly.
Mike Lindsay –
Hi Tom, Thanks for the excellent review, and we are glad to hear you are enjoying it! Best regards, Mike.
Danno –
I purchased this after extensive research. Expensive – yes! Worth it – double yes. I’ve started working on furniture and wanted a simple yet effective joinery method. Very pleased. My only regret – not buying the 1/4″ adapter and the 45° bracket at the same time. They are on their way now!
Mike Lindsay –
Hello Dan, Thanks for the great review and we’re glad to hear you like it! Best, Mike
Steven Vachon –
I bought a Dowelmax about 16 years ago when I worked at a small shop to improve the joinery for the furniture and face frame kitchens I used to build. I was very impressed with the ease, speed and strength of the joints, I never had any issues with them failing. When I moved to a larger shop with state of the art cnc machines I still saw a need for the Dowelmax so I convinced the boss to purchase one. There quickly became a line up to use it. I am now on my own and the Dowelmax is one of my essential tools. You buy it once and you have it forever!
Mike Lindsay –
Hello Steven, It’s great to hear feedback from a long term user like that, and we appreciate the story about your old shop. We found similar situations in woodworking classes where there was a queue to use the one or two units that the facility had! Best, Mike
Dan Russell –
After a year and a half of learning the art of woodworking on my own, I liked the simplicity and strength of dowel jigs. For my first large project, a 4’x4’x14.5″ cubbie bookshelf, I saved a bit of money by going with a simple 2 hole plexiglass and plastic dowel jig. Despite the project turning out nice, it was a constant battle to keep the dowel jig in the right place during drilling even with plenty of clamps. I made mistakes because of the subadequate design and finally purchased the Dowelmaxx to see if there was indeed a difference.
The Dowelmaxx is brilliant. The hardest part of drilling dowel holes is alignment. With the Dowelmaxx, if you can align the edge of the jig to the edge of the workpiece, you’ll have the same perfect results that I did. The spacing bar allows you to maintain alignment from one workpiece to another. The built in clamping mechanism removes the fuss of having to hold a jig in place and then secure the clamp without the jig moving on you. The 5 dowel holes allow you to make an incredible reinforced joint or strategically space our dowels based on a unique design. With a bargain jig (the most common style) you cannot drill dowel holes into the face of a board either. The versatility, consistency, and overall quality (of the Dowelmaxx itself as well as the joinery it produces) make this dowel jig the best one on the market. There’s nothing that other designs/models do OR do better so if you’re serious about woodworking and do not always have time for handmade dovetails, do yourself a favor and put the pocket hole jig away and get a Dowelmaxx. I cannot recommend this jig enough, especially to a new woodworker that has the passion to build high quality projects.
Mike Lindsay –
Hello Dan, Thanks very much for your excellent review and we are glad to hear it’s working so well for you! All the best from the Dowelmax team.
Anthony Grabda –
I purchased the dowelmax earlier this year. Now that I’ve had so.e time to use it I will say it is every bit as good and easy to look as it appears. The quality is exceptional far better than most things you purchase nowadays. It was not a tool I needed by any means. I have a competitors doweljig and a domino. And I’ve reached for the dowelmax on every project I’ve done since I’ve bought it. Its just so simple and accurate to use. Would give it ten stars if possible.
Mike Lindsay –
Hello Anthony, We are delighted to hear that it it working so well for you, and thank you for taking the time to send your feedback! We really appreciate your comments and support. All the best from Dowelmax Co.
Michael Jackson –
I purchased this set earlier this year and have made a few projects with it. I am very impressed with ease of use and the precision of the joints when assembled. I have used every kind of assembly method available to woodworkers and I believe this is the best when it comes to having a great looking finished project that comes together the way you intended it to. I have a mechanical background working with tight tolerances, and this tool helps me transfer that to woodworking. Thank for a great product. Now it is time to add different accessories!
Mike Lindsay –
Thank you Michael, and great to hear!
Mario Gonzalez –
After years of looking at this product, I finally got one for myself. I saw it for $50 off and had to go for it. Within 15 minutes in my shop, I made three joints and was extremely happy with the results. I never see myself spending money on a Domino, so this will do just fine. Great, quality jig with awesome results. I only wish that the jig came with the angle bracket, but if I need it that badly, I will order it.
Mike Lindsay –
Thank you Mario, that’s great to hear!
Chris –
The only joinery jig I had previously used is a famous pocket hole jig, and I stayed away from using dowels. I wanted a way to join wood that was strong and clean looking. I started researching dowel jigs, and read about several different high quality dowel jigs. First looking at the Dowelmax I was a little intimidated, but after watching some videos and learning more I realized the versatility and how accurate it is. I love how its a jig and clamp all in one, and the accuracy of it. I’ve used it to build several small table tops and its worked great. I’ve only had it a few weeks and look forward to using it more.
Mike Lindsay –
Thanks for your comment Chris, and great to hear it’s working well for you. Cheers!
Wil –
Just received my dowelmax a couple weeks ago. Typically i dont do reviews but this unit warrants one. I searched and searched for a dowel jig for a project im doing (sofa table with waterfall sides). So needed something that install dowels on a 45 degree angle. Dowelmax kept popping up on every search with their miter accessory. And no other jig i could find could do what i needed. So after extensive research i decided. That even though a little expensive, this could be an investment into a tool that i could use for years and years. So far ive used it on 2 different projects (just a couple edge to edge joints for couple projects. 45 degree is next). Well so far….. is the investment worth it? 120% YES! So very well built jig. Machined to perfection and made to last. Following the check mark system, makes making next to perfect joints easier than ever! Not only stronger joints, but line up is amazing. If i could give more than 5 stars outta 5 i would.
Dont let price scare you away, think of it as an investment into your woodworking future
Mike Lindsay –
That’s great to hear Will, and thank you for the super review!
Myles Spatz –
I’ve owned Dowelmax for a few years now, bought directly from Dowelmax, not a third party. First will say customer service is great – I called before I ordered, and have called a few times since for recommendations on use and where to order dowels. I have the 3/8 classic, 1/4 setup, 45 degree setup…whole 9 yards. Figured get it all at once and save some shipping.
For every project I’ve used it for, the joinery has hands down been the easiest and fastest part of the job. As an example, I’ve used this on construction grade lumber off the shelf (raised planter boxes and shop carts) and still get perfect alignment and fit due to the check mark system and product accuracy. A great advantage of this product over other mechanical ones, is simply that if left alone for 30 years, Dowelmax is still as strong and accurate as the day I bought it. No moving parts or power issues to worry about, ever. The dowel strength videos, though a bit dry, are quite accurate. For test I’ve glued up 90 degree joints and pounded on them with hammers until I gave up.
As far as pricing, once you get the tool in your hand, you will agree it is not an overly expensive item and considering the accuracy and speed at which it lets you work, I would have paid more for it. It is heavy duty and build to last.
I’ll reiterate again the customer service. Good luck talking to the designer/inventor/owner of the green tools when you call for a question. It’s nice to talk directly to someone who has all the knowledge to help you through any question.
Mike Lindsay –
Hi Myles. Thank you so much for taking the time to render such a positive opinion. I shouldn’t really be the one to say this, but everything you’ve said is dead on. I’m proud of everything we’ve achieved with the exception of the videos, they’re awful. About the videos, I always say the presentation is abysmal but the content good. Thanks again and kind regards Jim.
luther shealy –
I have had the 3/8″ Dowelmax classic for two years now, I have since added the 1/4 and 1./2″ upgrades. Needless to say I love this dowel jig. It beats every other dowel jig hands down for quality, accuracy and ease to use. I highly recommend this jig. It pricy, but I believe that buy the best and you only cry once and you will be happy forever and probably save money trying to chase less expensive systems that dont give nearly as good results.
Mike Lindsay –
Hi Luther, It’s great to hear it’s working well for you! Thanks for your kind and supportive review. OMS Tool Co.
Richard Ragan –
June 3, 2021
The Dowelmax Jig is one of the best tools in my shop for joinery! Frankly I wish I would have learned of it years ago!
I received my Dowelmax a few weeks ago after watching a YouTube Channel “DownUnderWoodWorks”. Vic, Down Under, had a great Dowelmax demonstration and I ordered my Dowelmax the same day especially for a complex project I had just received. Today I used Dowelmax for the 1st time on this complicated project which is a combination of Veneer plywood to solid wood with 42 dowel joints. Dowelmax has worked perfectly! I am confident that using dowelmax for this use was the right long-term choice instead of just edge gluing or worse yet trying to use biscuit joints!
I have been a professional woodworker for many years and have my own shop called “Landis River Woodcraft” for high end custom projects. As a spin off from my shop, I opened an “Etsy.com/shop/LandisRiverWoodraft” which has been very successful. My primary joinery will be Dowelmax and Dovetail Joinery.
In a shop like mine I simply do not have time for Mortise and Tennon joinery and now that I have Dowelmax it the joinery is faster, and stronger anyway. In my Etsy shop I make High End Keepsake boxes and there is edge to edge joinery that I will be using the dowelmax for in combination with the dovetail joinery primarily for its decorative feature. I never did like to use Biscuit joinery so I will be getting rid of my biscuit joinery tools in fact today. They’re not very accurate and NEAR as strong as Dowelmax anyway. And I’m sure the skeptics who think dowel joinery is not as good as Mortise & Tennon, biscuits, or other joinery methods will not be moved until they see what they’re missing.
I am grateful to Vic on his YouTube Channel “Down Under Woodworks” because I would probably not have heard of this incredible, accurate, simple, and fast tool that is engineered so marvelously!
I also purchased the 1/4-inch kit, the drill depth guide, and at some point, would also like to purchase the 45-degree Miter kit.
Thank you, Jim Lindsay, for inventing this excellent tool and all your staff support.
Rich Ragan
Landis River Woodcraft, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
etsy.com/shop/LandisRiverWoodcraft
Mike Lindsay –
We are really pleased to hear the DM has worked so well for you Rich, and we are very grateful for your first class review of our product! We can see from your Etsy reviews that you make a fantastic product yourself, and we wish for your business to continue to succeed and grow. All the best from Jim and Mike.
Ryan C –
I recently bought the dowelmax setup to be used primarily for door and window casing. Upon opening the box, I tossed the instructions aside and got to it… dead. on. perfect. I called Carlos in to check this out. Did another one….perfect.
We have always used the domino for joining casing. I bought the dowelmax as a secondary joining tool as the domino was being used on another job site. Me and boys all agree the dowelmax is easier to use and more accurate for most of the casing we install which has been primarily some sort of flat stock as of lately.
I purchased the 3/8 classic, and added the 1/4 kit, the 45 degree piece, and angel bracket. Clearly a quality product.
Found me a sweet little box with a foam insert online, and now my dowelmax kit is looking sharp!
Very impressed and would highly recommend this tool
Mike Lindsay –
Hello Ryan, Thank you for the great review, and for letting us know how the DM is used at your company. We are really pleased to hear it is working so well for you! Best regards, OMS Tool Co.
Glenn Dean –
Outstanding piece of engineering – and a piece of art too.
I have owned the Dowelmax for over a year, but COVID restrictions have kept me out of a community wood club – but we’re back now. When I took it out of the box at the club, immediate comments of, ‘well designed’, ‘looks beautiful’, ‘rugged and durable looking’, and ‘well engineered’ – from fellow shop mates. A few test setups quickly gave me confidence to go right to the good wood and it performed flawlessly; each time! Buy once- use often!
Mike Lindsay –
Hello Glenn, Thanks for the great story about your shop mates in your community wood club, and we are glad to hear that you like it! All the Best, OMS Tool Co.
Jay Rutan –
I just received my Dowelmax package today. I was very impressed by the way it was handled right from the time I ordered the tool until I received it. It was very well packaged with no damage. Everything that I ordered was in the package. I haven’t had a chance to use it yet, but if works as good as it looks, I will be more than satisfied. I probably won’t have a chance to use it for a few months, but I’m looking forward to it. I bought this tool instead of the Festool Domino. I do own a JessEm Doweling jig that is OK at best. I was going to keep it for doing shelving, but Dowelmax told me not to sell Dowelmax short on the shelving aspect. Look forward to trying . I look forward to using the 45 Degree accessory also. Thank you Dowelmax. Very satisfied customer and would recommend Dowelmax to anyone.
Mike Lindsay –
Hello Jay, It was great working with you on the order also, and we look forward to your feedback once you get started using your Dowelmax. All the Best, OMS Tool Co.
Beto González –
This is by far THE most used tool in my shop. I first purchased the DowelMax about 5 or 6 years ago and have since purchased several units. I do a lot of repetitive work building custom bed frames. Having multiple units allows me to switch between configurations quickly, without having to reassemble the unit for each drilling function. The precision between the units is so exact, that I confidently switch between them with ZERO problems in spacing, and perfect accuracy every time. I LOVE this tool.
Mike Lindsay –
Thank you Beto for the great review! It is really interesting to hear about your multiple DM units working together in different configurations as a primary production method for your business. Great stuff! All the best from the Dowelmax team.
Eric Garcia –
I have enjoyed building and fixing things my whole life but started more woodworking projects since retiring. I still consider myself a novice woodworker. I purchased an inexpensive dowel jig set (<$30) for my current project. It worked OK but I had to devise methods for clamping it securely, and I kept drilling the holes just a little off target and sometimes angled. I realize much of the error was due to my lack of experience, but some of the problems were a result of the plastic tool and it's design. After hours of trial and error, I finally got the first pieces together and they were "good enough". The perfectionist in me took over and I bought the Dowelmax Classic set. What a difference!! It is so much easier and FASTER, to drill the dowel holes EXACTLY where I need them and straight. I am still a novice, but the Dowelmax lets me do dowel joinery like an expert. My project is moving along much faster now with better results. Beyond that, the tool is very well made. It is heavy and very precise, and all accessories are solid. I didn't realize how bad my "box store" drill bits were until I used the bit provided by Dowelmax. I know it is expensive, but it has been justified for me by the quality of the tool, the time I am saving and the excellent results. I look forward to doing more projects with dowels, so I can use the Dowelmax. (I received no compensation for this review. I am a real customer.)
Mike Lindsay –
Hello Eric, It is great to hear DM is working so well for you, and we really appreciate the great review of our product! Thank you, and all our best from the Dowelmax team.
David Collier –
Hello Mr Lindsay, I purchased my dowelmax jig 3-4 years ago and have used it on 2-3 projects per year since then. Truly remarkable lifetime type of tool which should be in every capable person’s tool kit. Simply irreplaceable. Makes all butted joinery woodworking finish out at the pro-level, in terms of the aesthetic and the holding capacity. Don’t need it often but when I do the tool will be available as it is CNC built for several lifetimes.
Just wanted to say thank you for engineering such a tremendous tool.
Mike Lindsay –
Hello David. I wanted to thank you sincerely for taking the time to write and let us know how you feel about D/M. It is much appreciated. The best of luck and regards. Jim.
Casey Anderson –
I was skeptical at first, as the cost seemed so much higher than some of the alternatives on the market, not to mention cheap knockoffs, but I was thrilled when I received my dowel jig. After seeing the jig, I understand the price difference. This is truly a wonderful tool. The machining is beautiful, with tight tolerances and no slop. I am very happy with my purchase. I usually only leave reviews when a product has disappointed me, but I was so happy with this jig that I wanted to leave a review and say thank you for a wonderful tool.
Mike Lindsay –
Hi Casey. I wanted to personally thank you for taking the time to write about Dowelmax. We really appreciate it. Good luck and regards. Jim.
Jeff Janca –
One word to sum up this product… sexy. The feel and the weight screams that you’ve got something special. Add the precision aspect and you know you’ve got a quality product that will not let you down. I’ve fooled myself before with cheaper dowel jigs “to get the job done” but the Dowel Max is an investment to “get the job done perfectly”. If you get an ‘off-joint’ with this tool, it’s because of you, not the tool. I’ve delayed projects to save up for this product and there are zero regrets given. It has been a while since I’ve run across a tool that performs better than its cost.
PS…. The check system is brilliant. Such a great idea to make sure the joints are perfectly aligned. I’ve colored my checks in with a sharpie to remind me not to overlook them. Well done.
Mike Lindsay –
Hi Jeff. Wanted to thank you sincerely for your comments on D/M. It means a lot to us. Good luck and regards Jim.
Paul Lindhag –
Just received my Dowelmax a few days ago with both the additional 1/4″ and 1/2″ accessories. I wished I had purchased this years ago. I started making a heavy duty workbench and found that in making the leg assemblies for the bench so much easier using Dowelmax. Further, the leg assemblies came out spot on square with no having to adjust them to ensure squareness. I have now ordered the miter attachment with more dowels as I am finding more and more uses for my new tool. Thank you very much for such a high quality product!
Mike Lindsay –
Hello Paul, It’s great to hear the Dowelmax is working so well for you! If possible, we would like to receive some pictures of your workbench for inclusion on our website. We really appreciate you taking the time to review our products. All the best from the Dowelmax Team.
Frank Parsley –
I bought the dowelmax back in 2005. I have used it a ton. It’s my go to for drawer box construction with the 1/4” dowels. Very strong drawers and simple to use. I did buy a second drill bit and stop so I don’t have to adjust the stop between sides and front/ back pieces. This tool is so simple in it’s complexity, so easy to use and gives repeatable, professional results. I have a shop full of tools but there are only a handful of them that I’d buy the exact same product to replace the tool. The Dowelmax is on the top of that list.
Mike Lindsay –
Hello Frank, It’s great to hear from one of our early customers, and we are really pleased to hear DM is at the top of your list. All the best from the Dowelmax team!
Chaz Sowers –
I cannot say enough good things about both the jig and also the support from the company! Like many of you, I value quality tools and appreciate the effort a company takes to produce a solid, accurate heirloom tool. And my DowelMAX tool is exactly that for me. In addition to helping me male accurate joints, the tool is sturdy enough to survive in my workshop.
I wish that other manufacturers of woodworking equipment took half of the care and effort in producing their tools as what DowelMAX takes in making this outstanding jig. Thank you a thousand times!!
Mike Lindsay –
Hello Chaz, Thank you for your kind and appreciative comments, and we are glad to know the D/M system is working well for you! It means a lot to us. All the best from the D/M team.
Lou –
Wow, very impressed with the quality and especially the accuracy of this jig. Very simple to use. What a great tool, I highly recommend this jig
Mike Lindsay –
Hello Louis, Thank you for your kind and supportive comments, which we really appreciate. We are glad to hear it is working well for you so far! Let us know anytime we can be of assistance to you. Best regards, the Dowelmax team.
Roy Richardson –
Unbelievable Accuracy, no more slop as with floating tenons. And yes, I have a Festool Domino Joiner DF 500 Q Set. But, You have to experience the Dowelmax for yourself. At about 1/5th the price of my DF 500 Q set, the Dowelmax is worth every penny and my work flow is unchanged.
I have a second one on the way and will buy all the accessories as I can. The only way to miss is by NOT following the simple instructions as shown here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXdW_RTSjYvnKkxauQHZv9w
Mike Lindsay –
Hi Roy. Have to thank you so much. We do get lots of positive comments, and all are welcome and encouraging. Every so often we get one that is more emphatic, and yours qualifies. Thanks again. Jim.
William Porter –
I have used the Dowelmax system since 2015 and totally stoked over the performance of the system!
Mike Lindsay –
We are glad to hear it’s worked well for you Bill, thank you!
Roger Pence –
I am a hack woodworker–always strugging to keep things square and true. The Dowelmax has vastly improved the quality of my projects and makes it look like I know what I’m doing. Diligent attention to its checkmark-based indexing system produces quality that rivals substantially more expensive options (I’m looking at you, Domino). Not only does the Dowelmax do what it sets out to do, it is a piece of art. Every aspect of it exudes quality and attention to detail. Thank you very much!
Mike Lindsay –
Hi Roger. Thank you so much, and thank you for taking the time to respond. We really appreciate it. If you do not object we will include your note in our letter of the month. Regards Jim.
Mark Smyth –
I can’t remember when I came across the Dowelmax but whenever it was, it was my lucky day.
I had been looking for a reliable and accurate jig for some time and had tried a couple. They could do the job but what was missing usually was repeatable accuracy. I’m strictly a novice from a woodworking point of view having chosen IT as my career back in the 60’s. My dad was a genius with wood however and I can remember watching him when I was a kid. I guess some memories of what I saw surfaced after I retired. I moved to France into an old house. Old as in built in 1830. It needed a lot doing to it some of which I tackled myself.
I looked at the reviews of Dowelmax plus videos of it in action and after some thought decided to go ahead with it. I got the metric version in 10, 8, and 6mm. In Europe it is a bit expensive thanks to our 20% sales tax and import duties but If I measure the time saved and knowing that I will have totally accurate outcomes it is worth every cent.
The design of the system is a masterpiece of elegant simplicity. Very easy to learn. The Scots have always been very inventive and this is a fine example.
The first thing I did when I got the Dowelmax was to make all of the joints in the instructional videos. I was completely blown away by the results. Everything was absolutely perfect. The tricky bit is finding timber that is accurately milled.
I’m really going to enjoy using this fine system.
Mike Lindsay –
Hi Mark. Can’t thank you enough. We do get a lot of positive reviews, but every so often someone will go further, and really expound. Many thanks and regards. Jim.
Mike Lindsay –
Hi Mark. Can’t thank you enough. We do get a lot of positive reviews, but every so often someone will go further, and really expound. Many thanks and regards. Jim.
Carlos Prieto –
I’m so glad I went with this, amazing engineering and execution on this jig! I just got it but I’m constantly amazed at how versatile and amazing this is! Plenty of educational materials on line and a great company to deal with! Thank you!
Mike Lindsay –
Thank you Carlos, your feedback is much appreciated. All the best, Jim.
Mike Lindsay –
Thank you Carlos, your feedback is much appreciated. All the best, Jim.
Jeff H –
Where do I start? I bought two of the other brands over the years. One of them looked like all the bells and whistles in concept, but not in reality. The other was robust and reliable but aggravating as you know what. Got ride of both of them. I’ve got the Green “domino” and use it when I want to quickly bring things close, but by no means precision. Any yes…I know how to use the green machine. That’s where the Dowelmax comes into play. It is more than close…it is precision. You do your part and the Dowelmax will definitely do it’s part. It is ultra portable and it is ultra precision. Check out the joint strength tests you see online. Check out Jim’s strength test also. Choose your poison. The joints coming off the Dowelmax are very strong and very accurate. Look at the price too. You get a lot of joint value with this jig.
Mike Lindsay –
Hi Jeff, Thank you for describing the differences in the other products, which is the same as we found in our experience of using them. We really appreciate the great review of our product! All the best from Dowelmax.
John Arnold –
Worth every penny! I am always surprised how often I use my Dowelmax and not always for dowels. Consistent and accurate holes every time. I just installed a wood railing with wire cable railing. The Dowelmax made it SO simple! Oh yeah, I also use it for dowels too. 🙂 Thanks for a great product!
Mike Lindsay –
Hi John, We really appreciate the great review and we are pleased to hear it’s working well for you! Cheers from Dowelmax.
Rany Albeg Wein –
The DowelMax doweling jig has transformed my woodworking experience, making precision and alignment tasks effortless. This tool is not just well-engineered but also highly intuitive, providing exceptional results without any complications or issues.
What truly amazed me was the company’s unbelievable service and genuine kindness. They were proactive in ensuring I was completely satisfied, offering assistance and guidance like I’ve never experienced before. Their commitment to customer satisfaction goes beyond merely selling a product; they make you feel like a part of a community.
The DowelMax doweling jig is more than a tool; it’s a symbol of quality and trust. Whether you’re a professional woodworker or just starting, this is a must-have addition to your toolkit. It’s not just the product but the whole experience that makes this purchase unforgettable. Thumbs up to DowelMax for setting a new standard in both product quality and customer service!
Mike Lindsay –
Thanks very much for your kind comments Rany, and we always love to hear from our customers in Israel! All the best from Dowelmax.
Terry Pendergrass –
I bought the Dowelmax Classic 3/8 Joining System back in April of 2022. I bought it for a Farmhouse Style End table, which I built in mid/late 2022 and this thing was flawless and I was able to dowel the whole thing in like 2 hours including the setup time and reading the manual to make sure I was drilling on the correct faces!!! Still messed one of those up… but that was my own doing… This thing is amazing to setup and the accuracy is 2nd to none!!! I just now in late 2023, did a search for the best doweling jig and I don’t see it on any of those lists!! Man they have no idea what they are missing out on!!! BTW… procrastination is being beat to the curb… I’m getting the 2nd end table done this next week!!! 😉
Mike Lindsay –
Hi Terry. Thank you so much for your comments, they are really appreciated. We will include them in our webpage “comments” Thanks again and regards Jim.
Jack Pollard lll –
This Dowemax is fantastic and easy to work with. As some as I received it, I did some testing and on scrap wood and was very pleased with the results. I also used it on some narrow pieces of wood to make two small table tops for my customers and the tops needed a small amount of sanding.
This is the first time that I have done dowel joinery and will using it along with pocket hole joinery in my small furniture business. Thank You
neal watson –
I own a festool domino DF500. It almost literally went up in flames. Being that I’m in the middle of a somewhat time-sensitive project, getting it repaired seemed somewhat impractical. And I also do not know how much it was going to cost to get it fixed either—it is out of warranty, and I have a feeling it is nothing more than a paper-weight at this point. This led me to research suitable alternatives.
I started comparing the Dowlmax and the doweling jig from another canadian company, and one from the “red” tool company. I think all of them would be quality tools, but I settled on the Dowlemax for two reason. 1. I didn’t have to fumble with clamps. 2. The easy way it was to make repeatable and precise hole patterns with the indexing rod/pin. It came last week and I got to put it through it’s paces. Here are my first impressions….
1. This thing is a tank. It is a well built, well machined tool. The knobs run smoothly it clamps easily and is easy to use and understand.
2. Super accurate…I mean if you take care to line it up on the same reference edge for each piece it will line up spot on every time. I glued up a 48″ desk top 7 pieces, no assembly issues whatsever! Went together easily.
3. The show faces line up better than the dominoed faces. The seams are much cleaner and better alligned and need far less work to fix than what was done with the tops I used the domino to construct.
4. You can quickly and efficiently move through your work. Is it is fast as a Domino machine? Probably not. Does it take twice as long? Nope.
5. I actually had less “operator” error with this than I often would with the domino. Why? Less thinking was involved. Once I set up the spacer rod and drilled the first set of holes, it just went down the line, consistently and accurately. When i used the domino, it seemed like I had to “think more” or draw more lines for the pattern.
6. Similar value for a LOT less money. I bought my DF500, used, several years ago. Paid $500 for it. It is a very good tool. If I had to replace it, the idea of spending $1,200 to do so didn’t sit well with me. For the $350ish I spent (got the classic 3/8 and the quarter inch add on as well as dowels and a guide rod for the 1/4″ hole set.) The value I’ve seen in a few hours worth of work is every bit as good as what the domino provides at 1/4 the cost. I now do not have the need or desire to buy another domino machine because of this.
Drawbacks – So nothing is “perfect” and there is a drawback to this jig as well. It makes a mess when you drill a bunch of holes. Lots of shavings and stuff all over the place. Is this a big problem? Not really, I always have to sweep up no matter what I’m doing, but it does make a mess.
If you think you need a domino machine, Look at the dowelmax first. This will give you outstanding results at 1/4 the price. Don’t scoff at it just because it doesn’t come in a fancy box with a green latch. This is a high quality jig that is worth every penny and delivers results as good as, and in some cases better than the domino. You won’t be disappointed.
Randy Steinmeyer –
I worked in aerospace Quality Assurance for many years so am accustomed to being disappointed in tools that claim to be high quality. When I received my Dowelmax I was blown away! It was incredibly well built and even the packaging was outstanding. Every detail about the tool has been carefully thought out. The result is that it is incredibly precise and does an amazing job of joining virtually any joint exactly as planned. Plus, each joint is incredibly strong! I had to think about spending the money before I bought it but it is worth every penny! I am so glad I decided to buy this versus another type of joiner. It is an heirloom quality tool that my children (and grandchildren) will enjoy using as much as I do!
Marty Kanner –
Could not be happier with the Dowelmax classic! Bought it a few months ago, but hadn’t put it to use until yesterday. I’m redoing my workshop and building a 21′ workbench miter station. The bench top iw 1 3/4 stock I milled myself. yesterday was time to join the boards. The Dowelmax couldn’t have been simpler to use and the alignment was spot on! Can;t wait to use it for finer woodworking projects
Mike Lindsay –
Hello Marty, Thank you for your appreciative comments and we are glad to hear you are enjoying the product. All the best from Dowelmax.
Joe P. –
I bought the DowelMax Classic system in September of 2024 and am absolutely delighted with it. I was building a fireplace mantel and surround and the plans I was using suggested a biscuit joiner for alignment of several parts. That was an absolute disaster of an idea and I turned to the DowelMax after reading many favorable reviews. Easy to use and wonderfully built. Maybe not as fast at the Domino which costs at least 3 times as much but this was exactly what I needed and made accurate, precise, and strong joints. I’ve used it on a few projects since as well. If you’re thinking about it… I’d advise buying it and consider it my best woodworking tool purchase in some time.
chris mills –
I bought the Dowelmax Classic in August along with the 1/2 block for upcoming projects. After owning it for 6 months i can confidently say its an outstanding piece of equipment for joinery. Its versatility is amazing and the build quality is exceptional. This should last a life time if taken care of. I just recently ordered the Dowelmax 45 accessory along with the clamp adapter for an upcoming project. I can;t wait for it to arrive and anticipate the same build quality as the classic. I would recommend this to anybody who is getting into wood work and avoid buying a cheaper version that you will regret.
Caryn Beauchesne –
Relatively new to woodworking but have been a professional maker for the past 2 decades. Have spent the last few years learning how to make wood to the size I wanted with all angles square and surfaces flat and smooth. I’ve bought 4 doweling jigs past and each one was a waste of money despite some decent online reviews. About as accurate as me marking where to drill with a marking ruler and pencil. I’ve put in the work learning mortise and tenon, I’ve made plenty of dados, rabbets, and half-laps. And while each of those have it’s place and time, some of them are just time consuming, some just not the aesthetic I am looking for. Have considered biting the bullet and buying a Domino but I really just can’t justify the price tag so with some larger projects in the works, including redoing the pantry, wanted a quick and easy way to make clean, accurate and repeatable joints.
Just got my Dowelmax so naturally descended into the abyss of my workshop and started joining wood. This tool is nothing short of amazing. Thought having to reconfigure it to make different joints would be a drawback but really it isn’t. It’s faster to change than you think. It’s super accurate and really easy to use. Every joint I made was incredibly tight and flush. You don’t have to be a pro to have quality joinery as long as you have a Dowelmax.
Function alone the Dowelmax easily rates 5 stars. But visually the tool is stunning. It is an amazing feat of machining precision. Every aspect of the tool screams quality. If you make things, and you like to make nice things, then you will appreciate the Dowelmax on a whole other level.
Mike Lindsay –
Hi David. My sincere thanks for taking the time to review D.M.
We are a small co. and appreciate it very much.
We will include it on our website. Again, thank you so much.
Many regards. Jim.
Bob Lee –
It took me almost a year to get around to trying my new jig. It’s my first experience with dowels and I must say I’m very pleased with this product. I’ve done several test runs with it and am planning my first real project. I’m also happy with the quick customer support. I had a question on the 1/4″ kit and had an answer to my email very quickly.
Rodney Brehm –
I have not had a chance to use the new 3/8″ DowelMax kit that I just purchased (along with an extra bit and collar, and 200 dowels). I just wanted to thank you for the quick shipping, the excellent packing, and an absolutely beautiful tool. I can’t wait to try it out!
Building Blindly (Paul) –
Words can not describe what the Dowelmax has done for me. I am legally blind and have found a way to perform woodworking now. I could never get screws or nails straight (especially not in a safe manner). Now, I have the Dowelmax that not only helps me line up drilling for dowels, but is my clamp too.
I just couldn’t do woodworking properly without Dowelmax. I don’t know if this tool had the blind in mind when it was invented, but please know that I have been able to fulfill a life long retirement dream because of Dowelmax. I have now invested in a small wood work shed shop and also am able to share the possibilities of wood working on my YouTube channel too.
Thank you to everyone at Dowelmax that has given me the tool to not only build basic wood products, but items for my grandchildren, which has built memories to last a lifetime. Thank you for letting this visually impaired grandfather follow his dream.
Mike Lindsay –
Hi Paul. Thank you so much for the kind words. While I can’t take the credit for designing something for the blind, I can say for sure I was ecstatic when I found it was very useful for these people. Thank you again, and we will add it to our letter of the month. Many regards Jim.
Robert Glass –
If you’re shopping dowel jigs, read the reviews here, watch the independent reviews on YouTube and BELIEVE all the good things that are said about the DowelMax. You do not get something of this level quality and functionality without having put a ton of work into it. Materials are amazing. Fit and finish are amazing. Tightening any part of it is easy, no knob is too small and the spacing is perfect. Simply a joy to use. I purchased a basic set, then bought pretty much everything except the depth gauge just prior to 12/31/2024. I am looking at the current prices and it still looks like a great value (because these guys are absorbing part of the tariff).
Mike Lindsay –
Hi Robert, Thank you so much. We know the effort it takes, and for that reason it’s even more appreciated. We’ll add to our letter of the month. Many regards Jim.
Meggie –
I absolutely love the Dowelmax jig. I’ve been using it for several years now on nearly all of my woodworking projects. I’ve used it in many configurations for various types of joints. All of the joints end up incredibly precise and strong. It is probably the most precise tool in my small workshop right now. Once you’ve used it a few times it really becomes intuitive and very natural to use and understand. I have all four sizes because I love using it so much and prefer using it to other joinery methods. Overall, I very highly recommend this jig. I can easily say it is one of my most favorite tools that I’ve purchased and has become essential to my woodworking. Also, note that I purchased other (high quality) dowel jigs before this one and this one is by far the best in my opinion.
Mike Lindsay –
Hi There. Thank you so much for responding. It takes up time and I really appreciate that. We will add it to our letter of the month. Regards Jim.
Michael Scott –
I found that after very carefully making my boards to precise demensions I ended up frustrated when it was time to connect them together. I would carefully line my boards up on a flat bench surface, clamp them down and use my biscuit or dowel joiner only to find out when it was time to join the boards there was rarely a perfect joint. After the glue up I had to go back to the planer to get the joints flush. Doing this reduced the thickness of my working piece. I believe that my problem was that clamp pressure on the ends of my boards causes my my dowels or biscuits to vary along the boards.
The dowelMax references off of my work piece rather than my work surface and gives me a near perfect joint when putting the boards together. I am so glad that I did not invest in an expensive domino jointer as it also references off the work surface rather than the work piece. The DowelMax works!
Mike Lindsay –
Hello Michael, thank you for the kind review and we are glad to hear DM is working well for you! All the best.