Do you have a question about the Leigh Super Series and is the answer not in the manual?
Details the four joint mode icons used to identify routing parts and setup.
Lists and explains symbols for edge alignment, sawcut, caution, and numbered references.
Highlights the VRS's capability for near 100% dust and chip collection during routing.
Explains the mechanical operation and dust collection mechanism of the VRS.
Lists the main advantages and functional characteristics of the VRS.
Lists the components included as standard with the VRS.
Identifies specific VRS models for different Leigh Super Jigs.
Lists available accessory kits that bundle the VRS with bit sets.
The Leigh Super Jigs User Guide provides comprehensive instructions for operating the Leigh Super12, Super18, and Super24 Dovetail Jigs. These jigs are versatile woodworking tools designed to cut a wide variety of dovetail joints, including through dovetails, variably spaced half-blind dovetails, single-pass half-blind dovetails, rabbeted half-blind dovetails, asymmetric dovetails, sliding dovetails, and box joints. The manual emphasizes the importance of proper assembly, mounting, and router preparation to ensure safe and accurate joinery.
The guide begins by congratulating the user on acquiring a useful and versatile dovetailing tool. It recommends assembling and mounting the jig first, following the instructions in the initial section of the user guide. Users are advised to read the entire guide to understand the basic functions and principles of operation before attempting any actual joinery routing. It also suggests practicing on scrap boards before working with precious hardwood. For additional support, the manual provides customer service contact information, including a phone number and email address, and reminds users that "If at first you don't succeed, read the instructions!"
An important note clarifies that the Superjig is available in both inch and metric versions, with identical designs except for the calibration scales. The English-language user guide presents measurements in both inches and millimeters, with inches listed first, followed by millimeters in square brackets. Users are instructed to use the dimensions that apply to their specific jig, without concern for exact inch/millimeter equivalents.
To enhance the learning experience, the manual highlights the availability of online instructional videos. These videos are designed to dramatically reduce learning time, allowing users to stream content to their smartphones or tablets for use in the workshop. A QR code is provided for instant access to these videos, which cover pertinent chapters and are available on the Leigh website's Support menu.
The user guide includes a detailed table of contents, covering various aspects of the jig's operation. Chapters include jig assembly, adjusting the finger assembly, the Leigh e-Bush and optional guidebushes, basic jig functions and scale modes, safe usage, wood preparation, router preparation, and detailed procedures for each type of dovetail joint. Additional sections offer hints and tips, and appendices cover attaching the Leigh e-Bush to the router, bit selection, jig parts, and customer support. Technical bulletins, available as downloadable PDFs on the Leigh website, provide further information on topics such as inlaid through dovetails, wider pins, and end-on-end dovetails on D1600 and Super Jigs.
A glossary of symbols is provided to help users understand the instructions and illustrations. These international and special symbols are explained in detail and are frequently repeated throughout the guide to aid memorization. Key symbols include icons for different joint modes (TD Tails, TD Pins, HB Tails, HB Pins), which identify the type of joint and part being routed. These icons also appear in the top left corner of illustrations to indicate the required finger assembly mode. Additionally, symbols are used to identify board orientation (outside, inside, mounted both ways) and other important instructions, such as "this edge against sidestop," "sawcut allowance," "caution," and numbered references.
A significant feature highlighted in the manual is the Leigh VRS (Vacuum & Router Support). This revolutionary accessory is described as a must-have for all Leigh dovetail jig owners, providing nearly 100% dust and chip collection along with full-width router support. The VRS is mounted on brackets at the front of the jig, supporting the router with its full-width beam. A vacuum chute, riding under the router support beam, is surrounded by adjustable control arms that accommodate various router bases. As the router moves across the joint, the chute glides effortlessly on nylon rollers, ensuring it is always in the perfect position to capture dust and chips. The system draws debris into the vacuum chute and down through the vacuum hose, connecting to either a small shop vac or a larger built-in system via included adaptors.
The VRS offers several usage features: it provides full-width router support, allows for easy on/off attachment with rare earth magnets, enables users to park the router while changing workpieces without removing it from the jig, and ensures efficient dust collection regardless of bit size or joint type. The control arms are adjustable to fit any router, and the design ensures no hoses obstruct the view. The VRS is compatible with all Leigh jigs and requires no jig modifications for attachment. Standard equipment includes the router support beam, vacuum chute, hose adaptors, support rails, screws, washers, and a hex key. Accessory kits are also available, bundling the VRS with specific bit sets for the Super 12, Super 18, and Super 24 Dovetail Jigs.
In terms of maintenance, while not explicitly detailed as a separate section, the design of the VRS implies ease of use and cleaning. The effortless gliding of the vacuum box and the ability to park the router suggest a system designed for minimal disruption during woodworking tasks. The robust construction and straightforward attachment process indicate a durable accessory that integrates seamlessly with the Leigh dovetail jigs. The emphasis on dust collection also contributes to a cleaner workshop environment, which can indirectly aid in maintaining the jig itself by preventing dust buildup in critical mechanisms. The user guide's comprehensive nature, combined with online video support, ensures that users have all the necessary information to operate and maintain their Leigh Super Jigs effectively.
| Category | Power Tool |
|---|---|
| Type | Dovetail Jig |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Dovetail Type | Through and Half-blind |
| Features | Adjustable for different wood thicknesses |