Ryobi Hinge Jig - An Objective Look at the Ryobi Hinge Mortising Jig

In this video I take a look at the Ryobi Hinge Mortising Jig. I got quite a few DMs from carpenters saying they used this jig so I figured I'd give it a shot and see if it surprised me. I was pleasantly surprised with this jig.
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[@InsiderCarpentry]

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[@759NPR]

Spencer - Glad you're taking the time to demonstrate so much of our craft to inquiring minds. I've been at this since boyhood, and professionally, I've been a finish carpenter/cabinetmaker since 1992. I've used a lot of different tools over the years - started out hand driving trim nails, building cabinets in two-car garages or on site, and hand mortising everything... Around the turn of the last century, after hand chopping many mortises in some high-end residential finish work, I plunked down $100 for the Hinge-Mate, HM-1100 - W It's an all aluminum jig, set up to mortise the smallest of hinges, right up through at least 5" butt hinges, and it accommodates 3/4", 1 3/8", as well as 1 3/4" exterior slabs. The jig will also reconfigure to mortise loose jamb material (not pre-hung) for jamb hinge placement . The kit came with 1/4" & 5/8" rad. mortising bits for the differing small & large radius of common butt hinges. I've used the various plastic versions, w/the set nails, but the Hinge Mate is worth its weight in gold bullion. Last I checked, it was offered at $200, some years ago, although haven't seen it offered anywhere in a while now. You may pick one up on Ebay, or FB marketplace, but if you've a chance to grab one - don't hesitate. Keep up the good work, you're a very good teacher. Hoping your work habits rub off on the younger up & comers in our craft - so very few that are willing to run the gauntlet of the "years" it takes to master our craft. A truck full of tools doesn't necessarily make one a craftsman. You're pointing people in the right direction -👍

[@tombarker2369]

I am about to start working on some 25 doors in an old mansion, just bought this jig to try it and lo and behold here is a video by a master who just saved me a ton of grief and time by explaining its quirks. thanks

[@ben68442]

see my post above for the real answer.

[@2815Juan]

I’ve used this jig for 12 plus years when ryobi used to be blue in color. Still works perfect. I’ve never had a problem making perfect hinge cut outs

[@targetshooter3]

Spencer thanks again for great info. I am a 76 year old practicing carpenter with one eye. If you dont start wearing eye protection you might just suffer some horrific consequences ......its just a matter of time. With respect, Roger

[@KenHill]

I'm a 68-year old finish carpenter with one eye and I approve this message!

[@texasfossilguy]

literally had a piece of nail smack me in the eye yesterday putting up barnwood shiplap and got lucky. you are absolutely right.

[@hcwbw3]

I guess it is safe to say the "I's" have it. I am not making light of your personal situation. Coming from a family of carpenters and dabbling in it my self, they never used eye protection and I don't but, I will. thanks.

[@Chuffin_ell]

You are a master, eye am a pupil....

[@rustyshackelford1483]

Many years ago when I was an apprentice, I was moving a 12' x 4' wallboard solo. I was using a two hand top grip when my right hand slipped and my thumb went into my eyeball with a lot of force. I had a black eye and a hematoma in my eye for weeks. I was very fortunate I didn't lose my sight in that eye. Since then I wear protective glasses whenever I'm working, no matter what task. Thanks for listening to my old man's story! 😉

[@stephaniehenry9329]

Thank you! I was looking for that info right at the 3:00 mark. I could tell something wasn't right, and I didn't even think to pull off the strips. lol. But that was it! The video helped so much. Great idea to go back and check the original door. I'm usually rushing, so your thorough video was awesome! I really appreciate the little tidbits of knowledge that I'm sure you've picked up over the years. It was my first time using a router, and putting up a door for that matter. Everything worked great, and the new door is up!

[@user-xh8vh8uw9v]

One of the best reviews I’ve ever watched ! Simple and to the point . Thanks bud

[@Clocky_timebeans]

Makes me feel better. I got 10 slab doors to replace tomorrow and just picked up this jig.

[@Eaglefreek300]

I've been in the door business since 86. I've got an old school Porter Cable kit in the old steel case. A couple years ago, I saw the Ryobi hanging at the store and said what the heck, I've got to try it. I haven't pulled out my Porter Cable kit since. I really like it. Just wish they made a more robust version for pros.

[@LoveGuruGreg]

Agree, a metal one would be great!

[@ernestthebo5441]

Spencer, thanks for a great video and sharing your expertise and skill with us. Your voice is clear, and the video shots are excellent. It's a delight to see a real craftsman at work. With your guidance I think I'll be able to make this tool work.

[@philipdevenish9416]

Thanks for the info,I used the jig out of the box and my door was binding on the stop,now I know why,it is going in the bin.

[@chuckpazmore]

Informative, has key details. I'm very grateful for your analysis of this jig and putting your advice to use right now.

[@mariomalette4155]

Very well explained. Thanks for this great demo. All the best Mario

[@davidrobins4025]

Thanks for the good, clear description of how to use this jig.

[@kerryrodriguez2921]

I'm very impressed with your instructions and explanations!!! Excellent clarity along with your advice!!! Thank you and keep up the good work!

[@popawalker]

I wish I had seen this a month ago. I just replaced 4 old doors and the checking the jig on the old door tip would have saved me some extra work. Thanks for these videos.

[@joshuareed3999]

Totally agree. It's not bad. I have used these quite a bit, and while they're not the most precise hinge mortising option, they're good until the plastic gets worn out from bearing freeze and the occasional touch from the bit. When it gets a little wonky you toss it and spend $30 to get a new one. The one I have isn't as fancy as this one, but I guess that makes sense. I'm not nearly as fancy as Spencer. 😄 Nice review sir!

[@orville58]

Thanks for sharing this great information. Keep the videos coming.

[@buckeye44wbg]

I wish you had this and your other door video available a few months ago when I tried to do the same thing! Awesome information dude.

[@sprintspirit8457]

Great way to start the day! As always Great job. I have one in my 🚪 kit and it hasn't let me down yet

[@tedreynolds5285]

You’re a great communicator!

[@gtxtfgtxtf2052]

The best in depth informative review and professional quality tips of use I’ve see about this fixture so far. Thank you I have and am having trouble with contractors and workers who don’t know what quality is😳 Thanks again.

[@warrenheimpel8285]

Lousy quality and deliberate cut corners contractors are everywhere unfortunately ...😔 Southern Ontario Canada

[@brewbuildsit]

Thanks for reviewing this. I have a few minor projects I need it for and while I hate buying tools that aren’t quality this was perfect and super cheap.

[@patrickboek1138]

Thx for the door jig tips. I build my own watching your video. Also the Ryobi router hinge jig works like a charm. First time doing doors.

[@makavelione513]

I like this jig, looks pretty easy to set, don't have to nail or screw it to the doors. Another helpful video from a smart carpenter.

[@nogaffin]

Great job. No BS. Loved your video.

[@lexxb6386]

I bought the templaco bore master kit years ago, and that thing does it all. Great video!

[@andrewflewelling4294]

Perfect timing on this. I was getting ready to build a template/jig and was looking on KZbin for guidance. Now I know what to do with the $50 gift card from the kids for Christmas.

[@T.E.P.]

great job ... again on the graphics and editing ... i know i say this all the time. also fantastic demo on hinges as usual.

[@InsiderCarpentry]

Thanks again!

[@davesawyer6506]

I recently used this jig to replace the slabs in my home and had EXCELLENT results, though practicing on the old doors is paramount. For my application, the proper hinge backset was achieved with a 1/32 cardboard shim in lieu of the 1/16 rubber ones. I also found the hinge height to be a bit inconsistent due to slop in the height selector. Some cardboard shims to force it toward the smaller side of the setting fixed it. Also, mine needed a little filing on the plastic 5/8 radius pieces to get a fair transition to the straights. Finally, some practice on lining the jig to your layout lines is worth the trouble...take the line vs. leave the line stuff. A great jig for the price.

[@maritzalopez9143]

Great video it popped up exactly when I needed it! I didn’t realize I already had that exact jig bc inherited it and didn’t know what it was. Thanks to you it came out perfect!! My hinge was a thick one but I cut it at a thin one and it was easy to make it deeper!! Such a fun tool to use once you know how to do it!!!

[@roccoconte2960]

I've been using a porter cable jig for about 30 years now works great all metal no plastic.

[@jimanderson4495]

Thanks Spencer. Always appreciate the tricks n tips. I’m heading to HD to purchase one for a small job.

[@melternes3678]

I actually have this jig but never used it. Looked complicated. But now after watching your video, shouldn't be an issue. Your videos are always top notch. I always learn a bunch. Thanks!

[@monkeygraborange]

Sometimes with a new tool you really benefit from seeing someone use it before you do.

[@ethanboggio3314]

Great unbias review of a Ryobi tool Spencer! We can always count on you for down to earth info brother! If you ever had some Insider Carpentry shirts made I would buy one! Especially one that has the cross you've used as profile pic in the past. God bless you my brother in Christ.

[@williamfabiano543]

Best video you'll find . Look no further. Very well explained. Nice job.

[@chrisr.986]

Thank you for review. I just bought one today.

[@aaronmcintyre3998]

Another great show thank you

[@choice9572]

Excellent instructions, thanks!!

[@firemann3295]

Thanks for the review and insight, I'm a pretty confident DIYr and I need to replace 6 doors in my house, I think I'll pick this up for the project. Thanks again.

[@jean-francoislegare2571]

Best video on how to use it with all the tricks. I was about to throw it in the garbage when I saw you removed the plastic shims.

[@libertarian1637]

I bought a Master Craft hinge and strike mortising kit some years ago; I’m sure like many others as the years went on I just made my own hinge mortising jig. I don’t mortise hinges too often but I just wanted a sturdier jig, so I built my own. For a do-it-yourselfer a Dremel with their router attachment works great to free hand hinges and strike plates. As a side note: I have some of the a DeWalt battery trim routers and have the plunge base on one which adds a lot of utility as well as a slightly larger base plate to the standard trim base.

[@ryanengland6054]

Great content!!!

[@renaissanceman8581]

I have the older version of this jig. When Ryobi was blue and yellow. The Vice screw is actually metal. It’s a simple jig. That’s why it works well.

[@fsriccobon8279]

Thanks for a great review.

[@craiganderson159]

Excellent Instructor

[@Idunnoaboutyou]

Thanks for the review!

[@Cousin.Justin]

Welcome back

[@dkhallal]

Sold! I only do a few doors at a time and very far between so this is perfect. Great review,

[@InsiderCarpentry]

Glad it was helpful!

[@seephor]

If they make something like this out of metal, it would be skookum

[@rmalpass]

Great video! Thank you.

[@howardlaunius7484]

I bought this jig for a one door replacement. I was pleased with the outcome. Glad to hear pro thinks it's good for limited use. Thanks Spencer.

[@mkl5448]

That ryobi template works pretty well. I replace it every 5 jobs, or so. It's plastic, so it gets beat up a bit. Same with the lock mortis. They are very economical and work quite well. It's no match for a pro set up, but for most people it's more than adequate.

[@deckmonkey1459]

I have the same one that I partially ruined pretty quickly so I was laughing on your last video when you said to let the router stop before you try to remove it. It still works good though and it's so much better and faster than scribing with a knife and using a chisel.

[@markarita3]

That's funny, I was watching your 1st video (with the Bosch) jig, thinking man, he would really like the Ryobi (which I own). Then this video pops up! One thing to be careful with is if you tighten too much, the screw tip will mark your door. As it doesn't stay seated "under flushed" behind its "push plate". I took mine apart and added a small spacer/washer to prevent that play. I'm still careful when I tighten, but this definitely fixed the problem.

[@jimserhant7741]

I love craftsmen & women like yourself. Not only are you extremely skilled @ your chosen career, you also take the time to teach AND, show the average DIYer like myself that we don’t need to spend high dollars on a tool to accomplish the same goal. Granted, the hands doing the work helps a great deal, but I think you know what I am trying to say. With a little time & patience, most anything can be accomplished by the average DIYer. I for one, truly appreciate you.

[@InsiderCarpentry]

You bet, I'm happy to add value to the DIY crowd also.

[@lexiams5973]

Just an idea, you could take a carpenter’s square to transfer the back mark from the first hinge to the other 2 so as to have equal depth on the mortise. It’s another step Spencer but you seem to go the extra mile in everything you do anyway. keep up the good work. Much love from North Texas

[@bjm2762]

I used one for 10 oak doors with 4" oblong hinges and it worked fine with just a small amount of chiselling for the corners. I would highly recommended it.

[@zephyr1408]

A yr & change later I am doing lots of doors?? So far it’s ok but I perfer my Bosh jig!! But like u said ok here there & for a Home owner that knows what he/ she is doing?? Like dad used to tell his customers??(built custom or Speck homes) “You could do that , however; it will look like you did it”? Just a wealth of information and knowledge on your channel Spencer really a great Source !!!!!

[@casycasy5199]

great review never would have even looked at it before

[@InsiderCarpentry]

Same here, but several pros commented that they carry one for small jobs so i thought I'd try one.

[@libork8106]

Good feedback. Thank you.

[@JB-hc7hq]

Very different to how I hang doors but great to see new methods 👌

[@jasonbabila6006]

It's always a good practice for the DIY homeowners to read the instructions before proceeding using any tools.

[@ernestthebo5441]

Real men don't need no stinkin' instructions! ;)

[@jefferyholland]

Nice little jig . I just toasted one of my jig plates 2 weeks ago and have been looking to either replace the plate or get a new jig. I think for the amount of doors I do and the cost of a replacement plate I will pick one of these up. Thanks for the review.

[@2815Juan]

Ryobi Door Installation Kit, Mortiser, Router Template & Bit, Latch Locator Set Try this jig out as well. Can mark the door on the screw side. So be careful. Otherwise it’s awesome

[@JohnWalker-pg9zo]

I use the Trend Hinge Jig, very easy to set up, will do a number of different size hinges, good pice of kit.

[@gnusndn301]

That jig looks like it might work pretty good but I'm still partial to my plywood jigs and also the clamping mechanism should be on either side of the hinge rather than pushing from the center which would give you that inaccuracy there on the hinge margin . Practice mortising on an old door would probably be a good idea or a block of wood or something like that to dial in all of the precise tolerances. Again I appreciate your attention to all of the fine details. As you know the margins around a door are very obvious to even some of the novices. For seeing the bumps in the road ahead of time sure helps in making a job flow smoothly or not. Thanks for your videos.

[@hhprogressiveconstruction1140]

Ryobi put some thought into that jig . I like that spot for the self centering bit to not lose it .

[@BadBellyBlues]

Great info Thanks!

[@SpeedRobertson]

I have one of these and I really like it.

[@AsHellBored]

Good video and no fault to you, but I can't believe the client is changing out the full wood doors.

[@InsiderCarpentry]

Yeah...but reality is flat sawn oak has been done to death and it was time for an update. And oak doesn’t paint well imo.

[@ibrahimwehbe1153]

Very helpful info

[@1goblingreen404]

1st, thanks for the tip on the removal of the rubber stoppers, it gave me the spacing I needed and I wouldn't have noticed it otherwise. 2nd, I noticed that as I tightened the jig, one side will rise up off the door, placing the jig at a small angle. When this happens, the router won't remove enough material on one side. I had to really hold down the jig while tightening and even that was not a great result. There was about a 1/32 to 1/64th difference, which may be a small problem when you're only removing a 1/16th.

[@Drad719]

Thank you for the video.

[@reggiejenkins6458]

Ive been using this jig for years, it’s shockingly great for such a cheap tool from a cheap brand. They just released an updated version that’s thankfully more beefy than the older one, the thin plastic flexing was the only issue. It’s as easy to use as you’re going to get for one of these jigs.

[@rotaxrider]

Just doors or will it do jambs too?

[@AnthonyScolaro1]

Hi, great work by the way. I’ve been using this jig for quite some time now and it is good but like you said, if your not careful when tightening it down, it moves the jig further and tends to bend it slightly. Overall a good bang for the buck I’d say.

[@energyflowswhereattentiongoes]

yes it does bend it slightly. I use the smaller end of a wood shim about 4"long and slide it in where those rubber spacers are and I can adjust it for whatever size of a reveal I want left on edge of hinge and it corrects the bending.

[@jermiester7772]

Thanks for posting as I have to install 5 new doors in a week

[@Rich-hm9ux]

I have the same jig and yes, the harder you tighten the clamp, the more the jig is going to lift up and off the surface. When you are routing, it is important to push down evenly on the router so it routs the surface at the proper depth and it works best if you route it with the router in the upright position so you can put force on the jig.

[@karllundin5608]

I have had that Ryobi jig for hinges and the Milwaukee similar (but red) plastic guide for door knobs for well over a decade or so and they have always worked well for me. I will preface that they get used sparingly. But when needed they are lifesavers and have always been accurate.

[@thomasalison6188]

Excellent review, thanks! I've used a Porter Cable hinge template, it's pretty decent for the price point, although it almost always was just a little too tight for most hinges (the mortise).

[@marcelpichaco5392]

Thank you for the video. The small strips at the back should squeeze when the jig is properly tighten

[@LoveGuruGreg]

I have this and actually works well for hinge cutouts.

[@mynonameyt]

I don’t care for that jig much, this video was very helpful. I have an old Empire full length jig that I learned on 25 years ago. Wish I could find the plastic inserts for it, mine are broken and it’s becoming a pain. It’s just a good design, but no way to replacement parts.

[@MrRustyjackson]

And the kit for locksets works as well. Done dozens of doors with them with great results

[@wtlloyd6039]

And, it's only about $10 for the latch mortise jig. Cheaper than a stamp (that you then have to chisel out)

[@takismantas1159]

Another great video as usual, showing a decent hinge jig for occasional use. How about the jamb side? Any suggestions for Jamb hinge and latch jigs?

[@Krolus2009]

Hi Spencer, any plans on making a video on the door buck/ holder - looks pretty good. Great channel with good content I like to see how guys do things differently to me. Thanks for taking the time to produce the content

[@InsiderCarpentry]

I went over it in more detail in my previous door hanging video, but no, I don't plan on doing a built video. Its pretty self explanatory.

[@grahammchendry7874]

Looks like a good tool. Only reason I returned mine without even opening it was that it wouldn’t do jam mortises and I needed to do both

[@dangraves25]

I always use that jig, works great. Wish they make a high quality metal one. It's cheap enough to throw it away when it wears out though. I've been thru 2 or 3 over the past 5 years

[@andychapman5476]

As another person says in the comments here look at the trend hinge jig great product only been around 20 odd years

[@davids8493]

Thanks for the video Spencer. Now you just need to change the bit to a good quality carbide bit and you will be all set.

[@lamarmc]

This worked great! If only I cut the mortise in the correct direction🤦🏾‍♂️! Now you need to upload a video on how to repair a mortise cut the wrong way.

[@robertvillarino4280]

There were at least 3 points if you didn't make a first time user would have messed up,nice video.very helpful

[@jeffgarner3178]

I wish you would make a video replacing an exterior jambs, cutting the hinges on the jamb sides and reusing the doors as I am replacing a double exterior set of door jambs with PVC. I have never done anything like this before and can't seem to get a trim carpenter out in the country in North Georgia where I live or find a video showing me how to replace just the jambs and cutting the hinges.

[@mikegrimaldi5844]

I’m a handyman so I do lots a different things. I ordered the ryobi jig to replace a slab. I needed to repair the jig out of the box. Using it worked just ok but I think I’m a tool snob and will replace it with something better made. I give it a rating of 5/10.

[@toddwilliams9918]

I have that jig. It’s a great inexpensive jig that really works. The only draw back is that it is made of plastic and has some flex to it. So I’m on my 3rd jig. But still a great jig.

[@satchmodog2]

I lost my old templates when I switched over to my new van. Ordered the Ryobi kit a few weeks ago but haven't used it yet. But this and the latch punch seem like decent tools

[@artemisnavaziloff3543]

Thanks!

[@davebarnes1742]

The TREND HINGE JIG is the best i have ever used does the frame and door 3 or 4 hinges ,paid for its self within a couple of days

[@zephyr1408]

Hi Spencer! Yes; I hv that Jig and it’s great for me. Even though I am a finish carpenter I just do not do that many doors! In your case I do not see how it last? Whereas my jig for cabinet doors cup hinges had to be replaced with an expensive Blum jig this year; all metal! As pro carpenters we just can not use all plastic jigs for any length of time w/o failure! Ryobi make not! Make that Jig in quality metal with awesome clamps and bada-bing , bada-boom; winner winner wood dinner!

[@anthonyflores9336]

I have that jig and really like it. It’s the only jig I have and use.

[@arnieselectric007]

Hey Spencer, the little curved corners actually fit right back in the same place only in reverse...😉

[@AlAmantea]

Jig doesn't look too bad. I use the Porter Cable Jig most of the time, but I get quite tired of loosing the small parts that go with it. I think I'll be giving this one a try on the next job.

[@joshuareed3999]

Same. I have both, and consistently use the ryobi when I'm only doing a few doors. Plus the porter cable requires you to make additional holes in the edge of the door slab.