Both Woodcraft and Rockler are long-established woodworking retailers with strong reputations, but they serve slightly different needs. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you decide which is better for you.
Quick overview
- Woodcraft: Founded in 1954, it’s a full-service woodworking store that feels like a comprehensive workshop resource. Strong in tools, education, and in-store experience.
- Rockler: Started in 1954 as a mail-order company, it focuses heavily on innovative jigs, hardware, and project-specific solutions. Known for clever woodworking accessories.
Side-by-side comparison
| Category | Woodcraft | Rockler | Winner / Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tool Selection | Excellent – broad range of power tools, hand tools, and brands (Festool, Jet, Powermatic, etc.) | Very good, but slightly narrower focus | Woodcraft (more depth) |
| Hardware & Supplies | Good | Outstanding – huge selection of hinges, slides, fasteners, and specialty items | Rockler |
| Jigs & Accessories | Strong | Exceptional – they practically invented the modern woodworking jig market | Rockler |
| Wood & Lumber | Very good in-store selection | Limited – mostly online or smaller stores | Woodcraft |
| Prices | Competitive, frequent sales | Similar pricing, strong on bundles | Tie (both run good promotions) |
| In-Store Experience | Usually larger stores with classes, demos, and helpful staff | Smaller, more specialized stores | Woodcraft (better for browsing) |
| Online Shopping | Very good | Excellent – clean site, great search | Rockler (slightly better UX) |
| Education/Resources | Outstanding classes and videos | Good articles and project plans | Woodcraft |
| Catalog | Thick, inspiring print catalog | Also excellent, very project-focused | Tie |
When to choose Woodcraft
- You want a true “woodworking store” experience with lots of lumber, big tools, and in-person classes.
- You’re building furniture or cabinets and need a wide variety of raw materials and machinery.
- You prefer shopping in a larger retail environment with knowledgeable floor staff.
When to choose Rockler
- You’re looking for clever jigs, innovative clamps, drawer slides, or specialty hardware.
- You enjoy project-specific solutions (box making, router tables, workbench accessories).
- You shop mostly online and appreciate a very polished, easy-to-navigate website.
Bottom line
Many serious woodworkers keep accounts at both stores because they complement each other so well. Woodcraft is generally better for tools, lumber, and overall selection, while Rockler shines with clever gadgets and hardware that can make projects easier and more professional-looking.
Pro tip: Check both websites for the specific item you’re after — pricing and availability can flip-flop between them on any given week.
Ask me if you would you like a deeper dive on any particular category (hand tools, routers, finishes, etc.)?
Little-known woodworking fact: The modern router table jig explosion can largely be traced back to Rockler’s early 1980s catalog innovations — they helped turn the router from a simple edge tool into the most versatile machine in most shops.
