Replies

1. 
   NickNukeEm | Feb 18, 2004 05:37am | #1

   I have the PC511, and have to say that it's all right, but not great, and I am actually hoping that some day I can justify buying the PC mortising jig that costs about a grand.

   The 511 is made of a plastic resin and after a few holes using the 2 1/8" bit, the opposite side of the jig where the bit drills thru the back side of the door is gouged because the jig flexs, or it wasn't installed square on.

   It has paid for itself, however.  My major complaint is that it uses a spurred forstner bit, which takes more time and effort than a hole saw.

   The stamps they give you for outlining the mortises are weak at best (i.e., pretty dull.)  Think I'll take a file to mine and see if I can sharpen them up some.

   I haven't tried any of the others, so I can't help you there.

   I never met a tool I didn't like!
2. 
   briankeith | Feb 18, 2004 05:50am | #2

   I have a Kwikset Lockset Kit, that I love.

   Probably one of the tools I am most proud of.

   Bought it back in 1976. Birthday present for to myself (20th)

   Great tool.

   But I have no idea if the new lockset kits are as nicely made. The jig for mine is aluminum with steel inserts.

   If they are, I highly recommend.

   View Image
1. 
   Sancho | Feb 18, 2004 06:27am | #3

   Classic or the templaco I have the templaco and I love it. 

   Darkworksite4:

   Gancho agarrador izquierdo americano pasado que la bandera antes de usted sale

1. 
   briankeith | Feb 18, 2004 06:59am | #4

   Jeez, I have no idea.

   I'll have to do a little research and get back to you on that one.

   Okay, I looked around and still don't know the answer.

   In my set the jig does not hold the bits, it is just a guide for them

   I'm gonna make a SWAG and say "Classic".

   Let me know, when you get a chance, it is always good to learn something new. ThanxsView Image

3. 
   xMikeSmith | Feb 18, 2004 07:09am | #5

   i have an old kwikset from the '70's , still works like a charm..... got it free from my millwork supplier at the time... even then it was over a $100 ..

    never seen or used the other two... but this one does just fine...

    no model number  .. there is an "Emhart" number on it... comes in a big  red plastic case ... very rugged cast iron jig with polished sleeves..

    uses spur bits...

   Mike Smith   Rhode Island : Design / Build / Repair / Restore

1. 
   Sancho | Feb 18, 2004 06:45pm | #7

   I heard good things about the Kwick set.

   But I got the templaco cuz its has good bits and I bought the kit because it has all the templates needed for routing the mortise for the strike plates and some other things. Which reminds me, I got to get the bits sharpened. 

   Darkworksite4:

   Gancho agarrador izquierdo americano pasado que la bandera antes de usted sale

1. 
   xMikeSmith | Feb 18, 2004 08:26pm | #8

   ron.. like i said.. i couldn't resist the price.... ( free)Mike Smith   Rhode Island : Design / Build / Repair / Restore

4. 
   timkline | Feb 18, 2004 11:27am | #6

   We use the Classic Engineering model, only we purchased it with the Schlage name on the box. The unit is about 10 years old, but is still the same today.  It is a beautiful tool.  Very well made, including the multipoint spur bits.  The body is a heavy duty casting. All parts are replaceable, including the brass sleeve bushings in which the drill bits spin.  We have bored probably 300 to 500 doors with it and it is still like new.  I have purchased extra bits for it when we are doing large jobs so that you don't have to stop to resharpen.  I'm sure the bits are pricey, but worth it.  I highly recommend this tool. Even if you have to pay more for it.

   I have seen the Porter Cable, never used it, but it looked flimsy.

   The Kwikset is not a bad unit, but the drill bits don't compare to the Classic. 

   carpenter in transition