The Dowelmax is a loose tenon dowelling jig manufactured by the O.M.S. Tool company in Canada. The manufacturer claims that the small manufacturing tolerances of 0.026mm for the aluminium, brass and steel components of the jig ensure accuracy and repeatability. The precision manufacturing adds to the unit's cost, which is higher than other dowelling jigs.
The tool allows the placement of five dowels in one pass. A distance gauge bar provided with the jig allows accurate spacing between sets of dowels.
Tests by both the manufacturer,[1] and Wood magazine,[2] are claimed to show that dowel joints made with the Dowelmax are stronger than most other woodworking joints tested.
In 2007, Wood magazine compared the joint strength of various loose tenon methods and tools, with these results:
A 2011 review[3] by Wood Magazine, has rated Dowelmax very highly as a dowel joinery tool. The review classifies Dowelmax as "the best dowelling jig ever made".
| 1017psi | ||
| Dowelmax | 609psi | |
| Beadlock[4] | 541psi | |
| 464psi | ||
| 187psi |
| 2525psi | ||
| Dowelmax | 1866psi | |
| 1486psi | ||
| Beadlock | 1170psi | |
| 766psi |
| Multiple Dowel (Dowelmax) | 890psi | |
| Routed Mortise & Tenon | 680psi | |
| 540psi | ||
| Square Mortise & Tenon | 480psi | |
| Pocket Hole (5 Screws) | 420psi | |
| 285psi |