How-To Videos & Instruction

Sliding Dovetails on the D4R Pro


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Sliding Dovetails video — Leigh D4R Pro Dovetail Jig

Sliding dovetails are used in many applications where traditional dovetail joinery is not possible, such as shelf to upright joints, breadboard ends and drawer dividers. The interlocking strength of the sliding dovetail is maintained and the joint can be visible or stopped. Every Leigh D4R Pro includes a sliding dovetail fence that provides the straight edge required to guide the router. Any bit and guidebush combination can be used to rout perfect sliding dovetails.

Here’s How

1 Sliding dovetails are routed with the guide finger assembly in the half-blind tail mode.
2 Sliding dovetails are not limited by specific dovetail sizes, angles and depth of cut — simply choose the bit that best represents the size and angle of the joint you want to achieve. It is used in combination with a guide bushing.
3 With the supplied sliding dovetail fence inserted in the finger assembly and the socket board clamped in position, rout a socket (slot) up to 24" [610mm] wide. Stopped sliding dovetails are also very easy.
4 Now clamp the tailboard vertically, flush under the finger assembly. Rout one side, rotate the board and rout the other side.
5 Slide the tail board into the socket board to check the joint fit.
6 To adjust the fit of the tail in the socket, move the finger assembly toward you to increase the size of the tail, or move it it away from you to make it smaller.

 

For more detailed instructions, see User Guides and Bulletins in the Support section.