BEADLOCK
ABeadlock jig facilitates drilling mortises in adjoining parts, again using only a drill. A basic Beadlock kit like the one shown is $30 at rockler.com. This is one of many “loose tenon” systems. Instead of the tenon’s being cut from one of the adjoining parts, precut tenon stock is glued into a mortise in both parts.
Beadlock mortises are just a series of overlapping holes, and the tenon stock looks like a stack of dowels. You can buy tenon stock, or you can buy router bits to make your own tenon stock. But you’ll need a router table for that, and it’s a bit fussy.
PROS
Easy to use Automatic alignment in both directions Extremely strong
CONS
Slow Clamping required
1. DRILL THE MORTISES
Mark the joint centerline on both parts, position the jig using its alignment guide and then clamp the jig into place. Drill the first set of holes, slide the drilling block to its second position and drill the second set of holes. Repeat the process on the mating part.
2. INSERT THE TENONS
Apply glue to the mating parts and the Beadlock tenon. Press the joint together and clamp.