The Dowelmax is a loose tenon dowelling jig manufactured by the O.M.S. Tool company in Canada. The manufacturer claims that the small manufacturing tolerances of 0.026 millimetres (0.0010 in) for the aluminium, brass and steel components of the jig ensure accuracy and repeatability. The precision manufacturing adds to the unit's cost, which is higher than other dowelling jigs.
The tool allows the placement of five dowels in one pass. A distance gauge bar provided with the jig allows accurate spacing between sets of dowels.
Joint strength[edit]
Tests by both the manufacturer,[1] and Wood magazine,[2] are claimed to show that dowel joints made with the Dowelmax are stronger than most other woodworking joints tested.
In 2007, Wood magazine compared the joint strength of various loose tenon methods and tools, with these results:[2]
A 2011 review[3] by Wood Magazine, has rated Dowelmax very highly as a dowel joinery tool. The review classifies Dowelmax as "the best dowelling jig ever made".
Independent test[edit]
|
|
Hydraulic comparison strength testing by manufacturer[edit]
| Multiple Dowel (Dowelmax) | 890 psi (6,100 kPa) |
| Routed Mortise & Tenon | 680 psi (4,700 kPa) |
| Double Domino | 540 psi (3,700 kPa) |
| Square Mortise & Tenon | 480 psi (3,300 kPa) |
| Pocket Hole (5 Screws) | 420 psi (2,900 kPa) |
| #20 Biscuit | 285 psi (1,970 kPa) |
See also[edit]
- Biscuit joiner — another loose tenon joinery method
- Domino joiner — another loose tenon joinery method
References[edit]
- ^ "Destructive Tests Comparing Biscuit Joints, Mortise and Tenon Joints, and Multiple Dowel Joints made with Dowelmax". O.M.S Tool Company. Retrieved 2008-08-01.
- ^ a b "What's what in loose-tenon tools". issue 177. Wood Magazine. 2007-07-01. Retrieved 2008-08-01.
- ^ "Review-A-Tool Dowelmax Doweling Jig". WOOD Magazine. Archived from the original on 2014-10-10. Retrieved 2014-10-07.
- ^ The Beadlock is a loose tenon joinery system made by Rockler Companies, Inc.[1]
