This video was created by Jodee from Inspire Woodcraft. It focuses on cabinet hardware installation jigs, comparing a premium model from True Position Tools with a more budget-friendly alternative.
For anyone who installs knobs or pulls on cabinets and drawers, a good jig can save time and prevent costly mistakes. Jodee breaks down the pros and cons of each option to help viewers decide what’s worth the money in their own shop.
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Why a Cabinet Jig Matters
Drilling holes for cabinet hardware sounds simple—until you do it dozens of times. A jig ensures that every handle is placed in the exact same location, removing the guesswork and measuring from each install.
Jodee points out that while it’s possible to make your own jig or measure by hand, these methods leave more room for error. Store-bought jigs, especially well-made ones, bring consistency and speed to any hardware installation project.
True Position Tools: Built for Precision
The True Position Tools jig is a well-known favorite among professionals. It’s made from high-quality materials like hardened aluminum and stainless steel, giving it a solid, reliable feel.
The jig includes sliding drill guides and adjustable stops, allowing users to precisely control both horizontal and vertical placement. Once the stops are set, they stay locked in place, which is critical for repeatable, symmetrical layouts across multiple cabinets.
Jodee shows how easily the jig adapts to various drawer sizes, thanks to its flexibility and available extensions. The measurement indicators are clearly printed and easy to read, even in less-than-ideal lighting.
Budget Jig: More Affordable, Less Reliable
In contrast, the cheaper jig Jodee tests is made mostly from plastic. While it might be enough for a one-off project or small batch, it struggles with consistent accuracy.
The plastic construction flexes during use, which introduces the potential for misaligned holes—especially over time. The clamping surfaces also don’t hold as firmly, which can cause shifts during drilling.
Jodee points out that while the cheaper jig technically includes adjustable guides, they don’t slide as smoothly. The measurements are harder to read and may wear off with use, reducing the long-term usefulness of the tool.
Key Feature Comparison
Material Quality
One of the most obvious differences is the overall build. The True Position jig feels like a precision tool, while the lower-end model feels more disposable. Solid materials reduce flex and provide a more stable drilling surface, leading to better results.
Adjustability and Accuracy
The True Position jig offers more precise adjustments, especially when it comes to setting repeatable stops. These features are critical when installing hardware on a full kitchen or multiple pieces of furniture.
Jodee emphasizes that the cheaper jig may work fine if you’re extremely careful, but small inconsistencies can add up fast when you’re doing multiple installations.
Versatility
The premium jig also has more options for adapting to different cabinet types. Extensions and guide stops make it suitable for everything from narrow drawers to wide doors.
While the budget model is more limited in scope, it can still serve a purpose for someone just starting out or doing a one-time job on a tight budget.
Practical Tips for Best Results
Jodee shares a few important tips that apply to either jig:
- Always mark the drawer or door center before aligning the jig. This helps avoid accidental offsets.
- Test the jig on a scrap piece of wood to make sure your layout is correct before drilling into your actual cabinet face.
- Use clamps when possible to prevent any movement while drilling, especially when using a lighter jig.
These small precautions can make a big difference in the final fit and finish.
Final Verdict
If you install hardware regularly, the higher-end jig is worth the investment. It’s not just more durable—it’s faster, more accurate, and easier to use.
The affordable jig may still have value for hobbyists or those tackling a small project. But as Jodee shows, the extra time spent double-checking measurements and correcting small errors can cancel out any savings.
In the end, it comes down to how often you install cabinet hardware and how much precision matters to you. For those who value clean lines and a professional finish, the True Position jig is hard to beat.
If you are interested in buying one, please use Jodee’s affiliate link here to help support him: True Position Jig.