Armor Auto Jig Pocket Hole System Review And Pocket Station Build

Finally got around to doing a comprehensive review of the jig Armor tool sent me last year. Somehow I got a prototype of the new changes that was not good and finally the jig was replaced with a current production version that worked great so the update is in the beginning. Also built a station to make it easier for me to use. It is a good idea to get on the Armor tool email list if you have interest in their products because several times a year they offer big discounts to email subscribers only armor-tool.com/products/woodw... .
This is a link to the auto jig amzn.to/3d4un5J
This is a link to the jig with screws amzn.to/3jGuhSO
These are the 1 1/2 pocket hole screws I used amzn.to/3rLXtuI

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

My videos are not supposed to have mid roll adds but for some reason youtube puts them in. Sorry I have no control over it anymore.

[@olivier2553]

I have ad blocker, so I am not really worried :) But... you included short links to Amazon, if you have any link that can give you some bonus, please include the full link as short links don't always work. Thank you, now I will watch the video. I compared prices on Amazon and directly from Armor, they are the same, but apparently Armor delivers to Thailand (for free) while Amazon does not. Thanks.

[@JamesBiggar]

I have no problem with mid-rolls (I have Premium, don't see them). But yes you DO, in fact, have full control over mid-roll ads and their placement LOL. Go to the monetisation section of the video in your dashboard and you can literally check or uncheck what type of ads you do and don't want and exactly where they appear, ie: before, after or during the video (and when during the video). Go check it out. Works the same for all of us ;)

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

If you get on the Armor email list they send out some great deals several times a year with big discounts if you buy direct. Those are the only links Amazon provides me and they not work in all areas of the world.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

They have always been turned off but that doesn't make a difference anymore. Google seems to be getting greedy.

[@dougprentice1363]

I didn't get any adds. But no problem it I did. I really enjoy your videos.

[@gregghernandez2714]

"If it wasn't for bad luck, I wouldn't have no luck at all." You know that has all the makings of a really good blues tune, don't you think? I think every skeptic for pocket hole jigs should watch this video. As you demonstrate, if used correctly, you can get a really beautiful joint, especially on plywood. The problem is that beginners start using pocket holes for EVERYTHING, and that is where the trouble starts. Great video.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

They definitely are great for some applications but the trouble is not everyone realized wood has seasonal movement. Great jig once I got the good one and have used it quite a bit without problems. Thanks for watching.

[@rojascraftsman]

Your voice simply relax me and my brain absorbs everything, thank you, I just subscribed me in your first video. By the way, I changed my mind from Kreg, I decided to buy Armor.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Thanks. I really like how my Armor jig works. The first one had issues but the replacement still works great. They also make great auto clamps. Hope you enjoy your jig. Thanks for watching.

[@pampilgrim2274]

It’s very entertaining watching you work in your shop. You always seem to have a project you can enjoy. Your skill set is admirable.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Thanks. I really enjoy small projects like this. Thanks for watching.

[@amyyasunaga120]

The workshop videos are so enjoyable to watch. Not only enjoyable but relaxing too!

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Glad you like them. Thanks for watching.

[@MD-gc4xq]

Omg I dreamt of a workshop like yours

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

It's a great place to spend the winter months. Thanks for watching.

[@smallhomestead2897]

You sir is just like the energizer bunny, you never stop moving.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

It keeps me out of my wife's hair. Thanks for watching.

[@ptlentz]

Wow, what a shop!

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Thanks. It's a great place to hang out. Thanks for watching.

[@ericroadking7564]

Great review and the jig you made is great nice work as usual!! Thanks for sharing!!

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Thanks. It was a fun project and I am thankful they finally sent me a good jig. Thanks for watching.

[@surfdogvacationrentals5207]

I got mine built, not as pretty as yours and no CNC…But it’s functional. Used a one in thick by 40 inch long leftover poplar step as the base and some scrap maple for the rest….Thanks for the guidance…..Appreciated.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Works right is all that counts. Nice jig but I went back to kreg screws because of the cost of the color ones. Thanks for watching.

[@johnvodopija1743]

Your “Pocket Pod” is next level. I’ve just received my Auto Jig and will be making a station for it tomorrow. Keep up the great content. Cheers 👍😎🇦🇺

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

If you have room to store it bigger is better. So far this jig has worked great and I really like it. Thanks for watching.

[@johnvodopija1743]

I discovered my Auto Jig purchased through Amazon was not a customer ready version having issues with the left pocket hole sleeve and drill angle. I flagged the return and received a replacement within 24 hours and the unit is perfect. Back to making my jig station. 👍😎🇦🇺

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

@@johnvodopija1743 I am amazed that they still have problem ones slipping through the cracks. Glad you caught it and it was taken care of. I was told they were going to do a 100% quality check on all stock.

[@Dobbo2958]

It's not very often you give a 5 star review, must be.a great product. Thought the jig set up looked great. Hope you and the boss are safe and well...

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Thanks. the first jig barely got 2 stars. Glad Armor got it sorted out and sent the actual one that really works good. Thanks for watching.

[@williambichsel4762]

LOOKS LIKE THE BEST OF THE BUNCH. WILL BE PURCHASING SHOORTLY. TANKS ARMOR TOOLS

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

I like mine and it's very easy to use. Thanks for watching.

[@MrLeram12]

Very nice work. Thanks.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

It's a great choice for pocket holes in the newer version. So much easier to use then Kreg. Screws are costly but I just buy the Kreg screws now. Thanks for watching.

[@bkp100]

Great review, and nice CNC work. I've watched a few other reviews on the AutoJig, and I think your "prototype" was just an earlier version. The older AutoJig reviews (2019 and early 2020) all seemed to have the model w/ the thinner bushing, and the different chip evacuation. However, I'm ordering the jig, based on your review (taking advantage of the Kreg K4 trade-in that Armor is offering). I've been a Kreg user for years, so congrats on the thoroughness (and persuavesiveness) of your review.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

The way it was explained to me, there were prototypes made in mid 2020 to upgrade the jig and they were just to prove the changes. They were not to be sold but somehow a batch got mixed in with the production models and shipped during the Covid crisis. They had no idea this happened until I finally pulled mine out of the box to review several months after receiving it. There may still be a handful out there and they want to replace them if anyone received one. They should not have used the same packaging for the prototype units. I really like the replacement jig. It's very consistent and easy to use but does need a base to keep it from slipping around. They will be selling bulk boxes of the screws in the near future also. Thanks for watching.

[@tomhoyer2313]

Nice cust. service from Armor. Good fair video.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

I definitely had major concerns about the first jig. The replacement is great. The reviews on Amazon show that several others were sold last fall and hopefully if anyone that got one sees this video they will contact Armor for a replacement. I really like it after using it for a while. Thanks for watching,

[@TheFalconJetDriver]

Very Nice Ed! You are spending my money again! I have the early version of the blue one (2003) it has worked well for me but it does not have any dust collection provisions. I also have the Automax I am not impressed with either. The Armour jig maybe in my future.. Along with their clamps. Your fixture really is a wonder piece of art and design.😁🛫

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Thanks. That first jig they sent was not good and somehow they got a couple mixed in and sold so that was very annoying until Armor figured out what happened and sent out a replacement. The replacement is awesome. This all started when I was having trouble with the blue autoclamps and a subscriber said to try Armor clamps. As you have seen in my videos I use them all the time and they always work right after the initial adjustment. I couldn't see spending $8.00 for a 2 x 4 to make the video so I used what was laying around. Thanks for watching.

[@dennismacwilliams196]

Awesome as always

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Thanks. It was a fun project.

[@pampilgrim2274]

I am in awe of your woodworking skills. Have you worked with wood most of your life? Your skills are enviable.

[@TheFalconJetDriver]

I agree with you not only are his wood working skills impeccable everything else he jumps into as well. He is a very talented and skilled Gentleman!😁🛫

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

My family was very poor while growing up and learning to make what you need got me started at a young age. It's nice to finally have good tools that make it enjoyable. Thanks for watching.

[@TNBushcrafter]

I got that sander a little while back, for just quick touch ups it's fine. For sanding down like a 1x10 it bogs down to easily.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

You definitely have to run it slow with wider boards and take shallow cuts. I have been enjoying it for sanding odd ball shaped parts from the cnc router. Thanks for watching.

[@TheFalconJetDriver]

Hi Ed 5 months later Amor Tools had a sale yesterday and offered $30.00 off the Auto-Jig Pocket Hole System Master Pack (Incl. 800 Pc. Screw Set) so I pulled the trigger and ordered it! It will arrive via FedEx on Sunday. You reviewed a battery back up a while back and that is recharging my iPad as I write this. I am looking forward to the review on the Ortur CNC router! 😁🛫

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

I think you will like this. Min still works great. I should get back to the Aufero this fall. There wasn't much interest in them and only 2 were bought through my links so I haven't put much effort into it. Concentrating on the new laser now because there is a lot more interest in them and views are higher on the videos. Thanks for watching.

[@THEPEANUTGALLERY832]

I gave you a thumbs up for the name of your channel... Made me laugh out loud... 😆

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Thanks. There's a story behind the name. Thanks for watching.

[@THEPEANUTGALLERY832]

Forgot to add, and I subscribed! Awesome homemade Jig too by the way... My big take away was the Poly acrylic coating. Loved the way it made your wooden jig look. And will last a lifetime too I'm sure. 👍

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

I have been using the polycrylic on everything for a couple years now. It offers good uv protection and there is no outgassing. The only thing is it takes several months to cure before it can be rubbed out. Thanks for subbing.

[@THEPEANUTGALLERY832]

@@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023 can you elaborate on "rubbed out"? Do you mean that it peals or crumbles off if used before the cure time if one is not careful? Several months to cure sounds like a long long time to wait before it can be used. Just trying to have clarity. Your parting comment sounded important to know...

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

You can use it but it doesn't fully cure and harden immediately. You just can't get a nice polished finish until it fully cures. I usually just sand with 320 and put a coat of paste wax with 0000 steel wool on items after a day then go back a couple months later and do the final sanding and polishing. With oil base you can do the final polishing after a couple days. For things like jigs you don't worry about things like that.

[@m3rdpwr]

I just got an email on a big sale at Armor. I would buy some stuff, but not sure when I would get to use it. 😀

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Get the workbench and clamp package. You will definitely enjoy using it. Happy Thanksgiving. Thanks for watching.

[@rodpotts6317]

Very nice,believe I better build one.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Thanks. It helps keep it from moving around when dropped in the bench holes. Thanks for watching.

[@m1hemmen]

Thank you very much for a thought out and thorough review. Would you consider making and selling me a workbench holder like you made. That's very well though out and functional. 😊👍

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Sorry I am not set up to sell anything. It's fairly easy to make something like this. Thanks for watching.

[@clm111]

I second that request. I would pre-order a workbench holder if you decide to make some. Second best, I’d be up to buying the plans if you made them available.

[@frankneher9192]

I been holding out buying because of all the listed problems people been having. Maybe there is hope.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

I love mine now but the first one was not good. Seems like the problems have been solved. Pandemic quality seems to be affecting most items I buy lately, but I think it's caused by cost cutting and eliminating quality control first. The consumer is now responsible for quality and repairs lately. Thanks for watching.

[@casycasy5199]

it looks so much nicer then my kregg system

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

I looked at the kreg k5 but didn't like how the clamp was not consistent. Bought the 320 jig instead and that's limited to a couple sizes. This one is so easy to use for me and even my grandkids can make a pocket and use the right screw. I will update if there are any issues in the future after several thousand pockets. Thanks for watching.

[@nperson]

The new Kreg system that was just released looks very good.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

N person I have not had any luck with kreg automatic clamping . This one has an awesome clamp that has worked great every time so far. Do a review if you buy one. Thanks for watching.

[@scottmorris4914]

I have a K4, and purchased the Armor clamp upgrade, its much better now.

[@joebie]

Thanks for creating this video and discussing the old vs. the new version. I am considering purchasing an Armor Auto Jig. I have seen videos that show one model with a supporting tab to provide better structural support and one model without the tab like in your video. How do I know which one is the latest jig? Is the one with the support tab an earlier version or is the latest version? Thanks.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

The first one is the current version that is shipping. The one with the strap across the top is the original version. Mine still works great. There were only a handful of the prototypes like the first one I had that slipped out and it seems to have happened during staffing issues caused by covid19. Thanks for watching.

[@terrybarker6771]

Just came across your video, I like your armor base you made do you have any plans available? I do have a Cnc router so any files related to that would be great. Thanks

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

I don't share files anymore. I told Armor they should offer a set of something similar. It's really easy to figure out and size it to your needs. Thanks for watching.

[@edwinpagan1290]

Biutyful machina

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Thanks for watching.

[@terryreed1421]

Great video. Based on your use of the jig what is your opinion on how cleanly the pocket holes are cut? From what I saw on your video they look acceptable. I've watched some video's on the Massca M2 and what I've been able to see is they have a lot of tear out. I currently have a 20 year old Kreg jig that has tear out in it too. I see no reason to upgrade if there isn't any improvement.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

This one works real good. Tear out is really dependent on the bit sharpness, grind, bushing slop, clamping pressure, drill speed, and feed speed. Different wood species also have different results. You can control it some but there has to be some clearance between the bit and guide so I doubt it can be eliminated totally. I am getting fairly clean pockets with the replacement jig that definitely are better then my 2 old kreg jigs. I need both because the Kreg jigs are portable and can be used outdoors plus can add pockets to existing construction. This jig is wonderful for new work. Armor is supposed to be making a portable version of this in the future also. Thanks for watching.

[@reynaldovalle1773]

Great review. one question if you can answer for me please I appreciate. did you make the base for that jig. because I'm interested in buying the base and the jig.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Yes made the base to make the jig easier to use on large jobs. I can't make anything to sell so you would need to build a base to suit your needs. Thanks for watching.

[@reynaldovalle1773]

@@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023 Ok thank you

[@yusuihang]

I'm a little suspicious of the manufacturer's "prototype" story. On Amazon, it shows that the product has been available since 2018. The reviews there since to indicate some quality control issues, if you look at the one star reviews. So if anyone buys on Amazon, you should check it within the 30 day return period to make sure it's OK. If the manufacturer really did update the model, they should release it as a new model so people don't get the old stock, I think. Thanks for the review. (I will probably give the Harbor Freight version a try, because it's only around $50. Reviews on it seems pretty good.)

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Companies update tools all the time and keep the number. I found out dewalt tools I have purchased are really down level models that are mixed in under the same number. There's a 5 year manufacturer warranty on these also. There's no more of the old style in the system I am told after they tracked this down for me. Only a couple got mixed in and they definitely will replace one if any in question show up. Always buy what fits your budget to start out. The kreg R3 is the jig I started with and it's a good value being an old model. Thanks for watching.

[@yusuihang]

@@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023 Well, I'm surprised that in this case, the manufacturer did not want to differentiate the new model from the old. They took a 2 star product and made it a 5 star product. And by not differentiating the new model, they've carried forward the negative reviews from the old model to the new. That is good information that the vendor has cleared the old inventory from the system. If you mentioned it in your review, sorry I missed it. Thanks.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

The one I received was not the old jig. It was one of a handful of prototypes made to prove the new upgrades and somehow they were mixed in with the final ones then boxed up and shipped to customers. That's why I said if you got one that looks like it contact Armor. I bet the Covid problem has something to do with companies having issues like this as they scramble to get product out with reduced crews

[@jameshooker2441]

Wow look better biggest better Armor’s Auto Jig Pocket Hole System with color nail to make understand things biggest better than Kreg Jig Pocket Hole 720 without no color nail .

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

This works better then my old kreg jigs. Thanks for watching.

[@robertgillis3586]

Nice bench clamps. Where did you get them?

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

I bought them from the Armor tool website with the tops. They work great and will work in any 3/4 hole. If you get on their email list they have coupons for big discounts a couple times a year. Thanks for watching.

[@travisblecha3162]

That’s a really nice setup! How much would you charge to make one of those? Or do u even make them to sell?

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Sorry I am not set up to make anything to sell. I have passed a suggestion to armor to make a hardware kit with plans to make a simple mount. Thanks for watching.

[@travisblecha3162]

@@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023 alrighty thank you!!

[@rickcloyd6390]

Hello, I really enjoy your videos and just received my Armor pocket hole jig. I don't have a CNC machine and was hoping you would make me one. I would like to purchase one from you if that is something you would be willing to do. I don't know anyone that has a CNC machine and there are priced out of my budget right now. Thanks

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Sorry I am not set up to be able to sell anything. Something like it could be made fairly easily with hand tools. Thanks for watching.

[@charlesgraham843]

I would think that a manufacture that sends a product to a KZbin Creator to review that they would send one that actually worked properly the first time.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

I would rather just have them send one from stock so It's the same as any buyer would get. Things like this happen all the time and its part of developing product so it really proves to me they are addressing issues to create better products. Someone in shipping made a big mistake mixing this in. Funny because I bought an expensive blue miter jig that had the indexing holes drilled in the wrong location that had to be replaced also so check everything you buy carefully. Hopefully this will be helpful if anyone else got one of the handful that got mixed in and get them to contact Armor for replacement so they are happy with theirs also. Thanks for watching.

[@Hotled1944]

So you need 2 hands to close the clamp?

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Only really need one but it's quicker if you pull the block in with one and press down with the other. Still works awesome with no problems yet. Thanks for watching.

[@jeramiahshastid6041]

Where did you get the router table? Also I’d like to know about the CNC machine! Thanks Jeramiah SEMPER FI

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

I built both of them. There are playlists about both builds if you are interested. Thanks for watching.

[@jeramiahshastid6041]

@@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023 I would really like to get the two playlists. Thanks Jeramiah SEMPER FI

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

They are on my channel page under the playlist tab.

[@edmc755]

I think stay with a Kreg Jig , i think they are much better

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

I like this one better. I see many are not happy with the new kreg jigs that were just released. The k4 and k5 are supposed to be discontinued now also. Thanks for watching.

[@The_Bearded_Lady]

That might be the issue with mine... did they send you that one free of charge??

[@The_Bearded_Lady]

When I had issues before (around the same time you bought your dog table with inconsistent sized holes) they were not very helpful and not impressed so far...

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Is your jig the new style with the open back like these? If it is look at the sawdust holes and see if they flare out like the first one. If they don't you may have one that needs to be replaced. If you have the old style with the red frame closed in it's a good one also. Only the ones that look like the second one I used have issues.

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

@@The_Bearded_Lady Look at your jig and if it matches the second one they should help.

[@The_Bearded_Lady]

@@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023 cool thanks. I'll pull it out this weekend to see

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

There were a handful of these that slipped out about that time so it's possible. If you got it on Amazon contact them through the Amazon contact.

[@dannyarendall5233]

Can you make some of those Jigs to sell to us

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Sorry I am not setup to make anything to sell. Thanks for watching.

[@greensnapper1602]

You already know why the screws are in a small box, To get your Money.. Always thought / was told that the Paint on the screw acts as a Glue, Harder to back out.. The jig is Nice that you Built .. Took forever is that because it came from China ?

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

I just got good news. Bigger boxes will be available soon. I haven't tried backing any out but that makes sense. I had it on my shelf for several months because of other projects. Finally getting around to catching up on videos I have previously promised. I am having a hard time finding items that aren't from China these days. At least these provide many jobs here with the engineering and distribution. Thanks for watching.

[@greensnapper1602]

@@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023 lol yea i hear ya on the china, but had to ask. bench is very nice , yes its hard to back them out try doing it with a reg. hand Phillips.. lol should be harder to back out.. Again Thank you so much for All of your info

[@casycasy5199]

if your going to get rid of your tools id love them.lol

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

My wife will probably have a garage sale selling them cheap when I am gone. Thanks for watching.

[@m3rdpwr]

@@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023 as long as she doesn't sell them, for what she thinks you paid for them, you're all set. LOL

[@unemployedredneckhillbilly2023]

Mario Monti everytime I sell something on Craigslist and tell her what I got for it she says boy you made a bundle on that 😉. Thanks for watching.