Cabinet clamps are essential tools for building cabinets. Cabinet clamps can save you time and stress while woodworking, so why settle for anything less than the best?
Due to the nature of building cabinets, these clamps are more complex than the standard clamps you might associate with other woodworking projects.
Using clamps facilitates the installation process, keeping the pieces secured together while leaving your hands free to do other things.
Whether you’re a beginner carpenter or a professional woodworker, investing in the best clamps for cabinet making is guaranteed to make your life easier. From factors to consider to the pros and cons of different clamps on the market, this page will give you the information you need to know about cabinet clamps.
Things to Consider When Buying Cabinet Clamps
Cabinet clamps ensure your woodwork has no gaps between the pieces as you glue or screw them together. Many types of cabinet clamps can support varying sizes and shapes of cabinets.
While these tools are essential for cabinet frames, they are also suited for other projects such as picture framing or installing shelving units.
Like any other tool, there are a few things to consider when buying a cabinet clamp. Because there’s a wide range of woodworking clamps available on the market, it’s essential to be able to narrow down what you need to ensure you’re getting the ideal clamp.
First, look for cabinet clamps that have pads to protect your work. While most clamps have some sort of padding, not all pads offer the same protection and security for the material you’re working with.
Non-marring pads can prevent scratches or damage to your project, giving you one less thing to worry about.
Another feature to look at is the adjustability of the clamp. Whether the adjustment feature is manual or automatic, the convenience of an adjustable clamp makes completing your project much more manageable.
Additionally, a crucial factor to consider when purchasing woodworking tools is your experience.
Some brands, such as BESSEY and Pony, sell clamps with pilot hole guides, which is a helpful feature when beginning your woodworking project.
While clamps with additional features can be a little more expensive, it’s important to buy the tool that you feel will assist with your woodworking project the most.
When purchasing your woodworking clamp, keep in mind that not all clamps are equal.
Whether you’re looking for pipe clamps or trigger clamps, be sure to use the correct type of clamp for your specific cabinet project.
Failing to do so not only wastes money but also risks ruining your project.
The Best Clamps for Cabinet Making (2022)
Anyone who deals with wood can benefit from using woodworking clamps.
Because your perfect tool will depend on the size and type of your project, you’ll end up adding a few different clamps to your tool collection throughout your woodworking career.
Whether you’re new to woodworking or a seasoned professional, our guide will help you purchase the best cabinet clamp for your next project.
This page will provide an overview of some options to consider. From budget clamps to versatile options and more, here are the best clamps for cabinet making in 2022.
Best Overall
Pony 8510BP Cabinet Claw
Crafted from quality aluminum claws and protective pads, the Pony 8510BP Cabinet Claw is by far one of the best and most durable clamps for cabinet making. This unique tool makes face frame installation particularly quick and easy.
The Pony 8510BP Cabinet Claw remains locked into position while you tighten, align, pre-drill, and fasten the stiles of face frames. The tool’s durability and efficiency make it one of the best overall clamps for cabinet making.
Pros
- Protective pads
- Built-in pilot hole guides
- Adjustable jaws for adding pressure
Cons
- Can break under heavy weight
- Lack of versatility
Best Budget Clamps
IRWIN QUICK-GRIP One-Handed Mini Bar Clamps
Perfect for those on a budget, IRWIN QUICK-GRIP One-Handed Mini Bar Clamps work great for smaller woodworking projects as well as confined spaces. Equipped with a pistol grip trigger, these clamps are easy to use and come with non-marring pads to grip the workpiece while protecting against any damage. The steel bars are durable to prevent bending, making for a compact yet sturdy tool.
Pros
- Affordable
- Non-marring pads
- Easy-to-use design
- Lifetime warranty
Con
- Only suitable for smaller projects
Best for Versatility
BESSEY EKT-55
The BESSEY EKT-55 is one of the highest-quality cabinet clamps on the market.
This one-handed clamp features a compound screw mechanism that makes it easy to adjust the clamp. The pads allow for no-slip clamping of even delicate surfaces without leaving any damage.
In addition, the BESSEY EKT-55 features a quick-release button that will allow you to release the clamp with the utmost convenience and ease.
Considering its versatility and ease of use, this BESSEY clamp is one of the best for cabinet making.
Pros
- Versatile use
- Quick-release mechanism
- Comfortable handle
- Soft, protective pads
Con
- A little more expensive
Best Clamp Tool Kit
Kreg Tool Hardware Installation Kit
The Kreg Tool Hardware Installation Kit is the perfect all-in-one set for those looking to purchase all the tools necessary to install knobs, drawer slides, and hinges.
This kit comes with three jigs and two clamps that are excellent for a broad range of woodworking projects.
The clamps feature soft pads for a firm yet gentle fastening force to facilitate cabinet assembly.
The Kreg Installation Kit is the ideal set if your tool collection lacks any proper cabinetmaking tools.
However, if your woodworking project requires a corner clamp or a bar clamp, it would be better to purchase a separate clamp with additional features.
Pros
- All-in-one set for cabinet making
- Includes guides for easy precision
- Great for beginners
Cons
- No auto-adjust technology
- Not suitable for all projects
The Takeaway
If you work on various types of woodworking projects, you’ll end up investing in a few different clamps.
However, experienced woodworkers are well aware of the importance of a good clamp.
While researching the best clamps for cabinet making requires some time and effort before beginning your project, the importance of using the right tools and materials justifies the extra research.
Investing in the proper tools is a sure way to increase your work efficiency and boost your profitability.
Whether you’re an experienced woodworker or a beginner carpenter, investing in the best clamps for cabinet making is well worth your time and money.
Guides and Tips for Woodworking
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