A clamp is a tool that can be used to secure the necessary elements when sawing, welding, gluing, etc.Beginners do not always know how to choose the best device suitable for specific tasks. To facilitate the search, a review of the best clamps has been compiled, taking into account all factors important in operation.

How to choose a clamp

In demand among experienced furniture makers and other workers use clamps intended for plumbing, carpentry or welding. To understand how to choose a device, you need to understand the purpose and main features of the device.

They capture and fix parts so that it is convenient to interact with them. The advantage of the tool is that after installation, the specialist is left with 2 free hands and can perform other assigned tasks.

Carpentry clamps are made from metal and wood. The simplest options consist of a frame and elements that have the ability to move. These parts are either screw or lever shaped. This mobility is needed to fix an unstable surface and adjust the force with which the clamp compresses.

If the element is of a lever type, then some models consist of an additional axis and the lever itself. They are used when you need to quickly fix a workpiece.They require no force because the lever moves easily to the desired area, giving sufficient pressure in a matter of moments.

Types of clamps and their features

The best clamp has its own advantages, it may be of a certain type, but the main thing is that it makes the master’s work easier. When choosing before purchasing, you need to study all that are available.

Classic U-shaped clamps

The frame of such devices is made in the shape of the letter “P”. The role of the clamp is performed by moving parts located on the side of it. The most common models are those with a screw element, on one side with a special handle for unscrewing and tightening the clamp, and on the other side with a flat part that presses parts, workpieces, etc.

They are made of plastic or metal. Sometimes wooden components are partially added. This type of clamps includes different types, for example, G-shaped. In everyday life they are called “screw”.

The advantage of a classic clamp is the price. Budget is associated with simplicity of design. They have different characteristics, weight and size. For example, plastic devices are used for light workpieces, while metal ones are suitable for more complex tasks.

These clamps are also not without their disadvantages. The main factor is the time spent on unscrewing and tightening the screw. With frequent replacement of workpieces, this figure increases, which upsets the craftsmen. Another disadvantage is the risk of damaging parts made of soft materials. To reduce it, choose models that have a large flat part. You can also find another name for it – “heel”.

Band clamps

This is a specialized type of tool in which fixation is carried out using a rigid tape or belt made of nylon.This mechanism allows you to tighten the clamp on the workpiece, thereby securing it in one position.

The advantage is the uniform distribution of pressure on the parts, but even with this, such devices are not very functional for widespread use. Convenient for assembling round barrels, frames, tabletops or chairs of this shape.

The disadvantage is that the tapes have no corners. They can damage the edges of any part or workpiece. To avoid this, craftsmen are forced to purchase additional angles to increase the functionality of the clamp.

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F-clamp

Another relatively inexpensive type of clamps. It is not as reliable as the classic one, but it also has a plus. The deep throat helps to secure any part located far from the edge.

The structure may have a screw or lever to adjust it. The clamps of this type of clamps can be both weaker, intended for soft materials, and heavy, massive, which are suitable for complex tasks.

The tool is also relatively inexpensive considering the number of features it has. But the difficulty of operation is that you need to hold it with both hands and at the same time twist it.

Angle clamps

There are screw and magnetic types. It differs from others in design. This clamp has 2 workpiece clamps. The basis of the device is not a frame, like the previous type, but a cast body. Their purpose is simple: craftsmen use them to fasten wooden blanks at an angle of 90°. The holes in the body help you attach the clamp to a table or workbench. This is a low-functional option, because it is impossible to work without proper installation, but it performs its task efficiently.

T-clamp

This is one of the main and common types. It is suitable for furniture production and assembly. The profile length can be more than one meter. It has 2 jaws that can move. Thanks to them and the screw that must be tightened, reliable clamping of any workpiece is ensured. Before work, the clamp must be installed.

There are types that are used less often, but they are also useful:

• pipe;
• magnetic;
• vacuum;
• quick-release, which are automatic;
• hydraulic, etc.

You need to choose the type of clamp based on the tasks and scope of activity. For example, when gluing parts you need one type, but when making furniture it is completely unsuitable, so you need to purchase another.

When choosing, pay attention to the material from which the clamp is made. Among workers using this device, the following are common:

1. Plastic. Polymer materials are less durable than others, but this does not mean that they are fragile. Suitable for securing light objects, but plastic clamps are not suitable for heavy workpieces.
2. Tree. It is more often used as a material for homemade clamps than for mass production, but they can be found on sale. Devices made from it are convenient for soft elements.
3. Metal. The basis for such clamps is steel. The higher price is due to its high strength. They are protected from corrosion by a special coating. The longer it remains on the instrument, the longer it will last in use. Even in the worst case scenario, the device has a long service life.
4. Cast iron. Forged clamps are endowed with strength and durability. Often this is a classic type of device, the only disadvantage of which is its heavy weight, but it does not differ too much from other types.
5. Less commonly made of aluminum.

Mixing materials is also used. So one part of the elements can be made of metal, and the other, for example, will be plastic.

What to look for when choosing

You need to choose a clamp based on the objects and their dimensions, as well as the material. It is advisable to pay attention to the size of the device, because this will affect the work. Due to the fact that there is no universal clamp, craftsmen need to buy 2-3 varieties at once in order to cope with any task. Sometimes they are made by hand. This is not particularly difficult, but you need to find all the materials and parts.

In most cases, a clamp is needed to secure wooden pieces. There are many suitable models for this material, so choosing the one you need won’t be difficult. In a number of situations, you will have to choose not this tool for wood, but a vice.

The main selection criterion is the clamping force, as well as the ability to regulate and control this pressure. It will be better if the screw has a fine thread, because then the risk of damaging the material is less. Some models have additional options. For example, a clamp serves not only as a locking mechanism, but also as a spacer.

The best corner clamps

The review of the best clamps starts with the corner ones. For convenience, each model presents both advantages and disadvantages, if any. The rating of the best was compiled taking into account the opinion of the masters, based on reviews and prices.

Bailey Stanley 0-83-122

Angle clamp designed for carpentry work. Withstands heavy loads. Its hinged design is capable of fixing parts of different or the same thickness at an angle of 90°. Made of aluminum. The weight of the instrument is slightly more than one kilogram.

Price – 1,396 rubles.

BISON USM-80

Professional device from the ZUBR brand. It is made of aluminum, but at the same time on the manufacturer’s website it is declared as durable and easy to use. Designed for different types of work, in particular, for materials such as metal and wood. It is also convenient for household tasks. For example, for gluing different objects. Its weight is 720 grams, but in packaging for transportation it weighs a little more - 900.

Price – 1,045 rubles.

Fit 59275

Fixes glass, wood and metal. Coated with a special powder paint that provides protection against corrosion. The wide size clamp is suitable for convenient work with thick logs or massive metal objects. Weight approximately 150 grams.

Price – 380 rubles.

The best quick-release clamps

This is a clamp with an automatic mechanism. This makes the job much easier because it requires less effort. It is comfortable to work with her at high altitudes.Three models were included in the rating, but they, like others, have both advantages and disadvantages.

Kraftool 32019-75-300

F-shaped clamp. The device is durable because there are no plastic areas and it is made entirely of metal. You can work even at +30°C. Multifunctionality allows you to fix different objects, for example, plastic, metal and boards. Due to the automatic mechanism, closing and unclenching is faster.

Price – from 2,300 rubles.

Gross 20717

This model of quick-release clamp is made of metal and impact-resistant plastic. It has a steel bar and a ratchet mechanism that can be adjusted with one hand. Installation on the workpiece or release is completed in 2-3 seconds. The parts it can hold reach 10 centimeters. There is a rubber pad on the area that presses the object. It protects the surface of this workpiece from various scratches.

Price – from 2,200 rubles.

Bison 32246-210

Compact size quick release clamp. The nylon construction is reinforced with fiberglass, making it very durable. The diameter of the parts that it is capable of fixing reaches 7.7 cm. The movable jaws do not become dirty and do not damage the object. Reliable fixation does not depend on the evenness of the object.Weight about 150 grams.

Price – 600 rubles.

Best F Clamps

When choosing the best F-clamps, the width of the object they grip and the material they are made from are important. They are used to glue objects together and are loved for their durability. Here are 2 reliable devices.

Sparta 204235

A fairly budget-friendly model of an F-shaped clamp, which is suitable not only for carpentry work, but also for use at home. The compression force is sufficient to hold small and medium-sized objects. To operate for welding work, it is necessary to close the thread from possible splashes, because the power of the structure allows this. Plastic covers provide protection to items from damage.

Price – 200 rubles.

Matrix 20562

This model from the Matrix brand is compact in size. One of the best clamps for various small jobs. The clamping system is designed in such a way that it can be easily operated with one hand.

The device has a shock-resistant plastic case. Used to glue small parts together. There is an additional function - if you turn the jaws of the clamp over, it will begin to work as a release mechanism.

Price – about 500 rubles.

Best G Clamps

This type of clamp is used by carpenters and mechanics. When choosing the best ones, you need to focus on the working width needed for the desired tasks and the strength of the frame. Based on reviews, two leading models were selected.

Sibrtech 20586

A clamp capable of grasping thick wooden beams, pipelines or metal products. It has a large width of 15 cm and an impressive depth of 8.7 cm. The frame is made of malleable cast iron.

Price – 600 rubles.

Santool 032401-075

G-shaped clamp, the steel body of which is coated with bright varnish. This protection helps prevent corrosion. Reliable screw clamps secure objects. The thread is large, so the process happens quickly. The design does not break because it is simply constructed. It is used not only for carpentry, but also for gluing or processing objects.

Price – 170 rubles.

The best pipe clamps

This device is divided into 2 separate parts. The best pipe clamp is selected for the workpiece, length, and size of the pipe.After analyzing the market, studying reviews and careful selection, one model was identified.

Cobalt 246-074

A convenient model for gluing objects together, for example, for furniture panels. You can quickly secure any large objects with it. Due to the fact that there is no plastic in the design, it is suitable for welding work.

Price – 1,500 rubles.

Choose well-known brands and clamps that will be suitable for your purposes. This is a simple design tool that is easy to handle. Share your opinion in the comments and save useful information so as not to make unnecessary expenses!