Pocket science

Strong, fast and easy to do – what’s not to like about pocket screws?

I’ve been a big fan of pocket screw joinery since the first time I tried it, and even made it the subject of one of my earliest blogs some 15 years ago. Sure, there are better and more attractive joinery methods and I have my favorites among those, too – rabbets and tenons top the list. But when the method of joinery isn’t visible and there’s no excessive stress on the joint, I won’t hesitate to get out my pocket screw jig.

It takes maybe five minutes to learn and master pocket screws. The method is fast, self-aligning when done properly, reversible and plenty strong. Other than the jig, all it requires is a drill/driver and a clamp. Pocket cutter machines make the process faster and easier. They can be configured to drill the hole, insert the screw, and even process two pockets and screws at the same time.

For butt joints – especially for frames – there’s nothing better in my opinion. All the visible mechanical connectors are on the back of the frame where no one sees them, and once your cabinet is constructed you just attach the frame, and job done.

I had stated in that 2009 blog that I thought pocket joinery didn’t get enough respect, and I’m pleased to see that seems to have turned around a good bit. I’ve seen some incredible furniture with fantastic visible joinery where it counts, and then when talking to the maker find out that there are some pocket screws hidden away somewhere inside.

Pocket screws help makers concentrate on the finer parts of a piece, spending time where it needs to be spent. Their low cost and ease-of-use help increase both efficiency and profits. Simply put, using them whenever possible isn’t rocket science.