What is a dovetail ?

[Lee Roberts]

Isnt a "dovetail" a type of wood joint?

[irving2008]

yes, but exactly the same shape is used as an accurate slide mechanism. I suppose he should have said 'slacken the gibs' as they are the plates that control the loading on the dovetail... see pic

[Lee Roberts]

Thanks irving !

[irving2008]

Now you're just being pedantic :D