You are here:
Dowelmax Purchasing Guide
Section 1 – Main Classic System:
There are two main systems which are (1) Classic 3/8 for use with imperial 3/8″ dowels and (2) Classic 10 mm for use with metric 10 mm dowels. The two systems have the same general design and specification other than the dowel size. We recommend the imperial Classic 3/8 for customers in North America, and the metric Classic 10 mm for customers outside of North America, which is based on the dowel size most commonly available for purchase in the country of use.
The main Classic systems in 3/8 or 10 mm include all components necessary for approximately 75% of all joint requirements in materials from ¾ inch thickness (18 mm) to 4 x 4″.
The following accessories can be added to the Classic system for two additional joint configurations, and increased versatility:
- Angle bracket for T-type joints, e.g. refer to crossmember spar in Dowelmax Projects Coffee Table Step 11, or track 11 of DVD on YouTube.
- Miter accessory for drawer box type miter joints, e.g. refer to Dowelmax advantages video
- Clamp adapter for use with miter accessory and integral clamp bracket instead of external clamp, e.g. The Wood Crafted Workshop on YouTube Dowelmax 101 Episode 9
- Drill Depth Gauge available for imperial 3/8 system drills only, for more convenient setting of 3/8 drill collar and drilling depth, video
The miter accessory can be used with the nuts and studs from the Classic device, and it is not necessary to purchase nuts and studs with the accessory if you already have a Classic device.
Section 2 – Optional Drill Guide Packages for Thinner Material
Drill guide packages are available to change over the Classic system for use with ¼” and 5/16 dowels centered on 3/8″, ½” and 5/8″ thick material.
For additional information refer to the drawer project video.
Equivalent metric drill guide packages are available to change over the Classic for use with metric 6 mm and 8 mm dowels. These are recommended for customers outside of North America where imperial sized dowels are not commonly available.
Section 3 – Optional ½ Drill Guide Package for Thicker Material
The ½ drill guide package can be used in material 7/8″ and thicker and is ideal for construction using 1-1/2″ thick 2 x 4 lumber for an example. Please note that the 3/8 system works perfectly well for 2 x 4 construction as well. For additional information refer to the woodworking tool stand project video.
Section 4 – Miter System
The miter system is a dedicated setup for box type miter joints which is available as a lower cost alternative to purchasing a full Classic system with a miter accessory. This enables the creation of box type miter joints as used in the construction of drawer boxes and decorative boxes where a butt type corner joint is not the preferred method.
If you purchase or have a Classic system already then you do not need a miter system, just the miter accessory only for $31.
Section 5 – Spare Drill & Stop Collar
Spare drills can be used to set the collar for different drill depths. For example, when drilling face joints in ¾” material using 1-1/2″ dowels, typically the collar is adjusted to drill 9/16″ into the face, and 15/16″ deep into the opposing work piece.
For further information you can email us at dowelmax@gmail.com or call toll free 1-877-986-9400
