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Whether you are a craftsman, handyman, or casual woodworker you probably use clamps in some fashion. However, the type of clamp you purchase greatly depends on the scope of the project you are working on. Nothing is more frustrating than having to purchase a new tool everytime you start a new project. This causes your workshop to get cluttered and forces many craftsmen to go over budget. Clamps are one of the most versatile tools in woodworking, and often alleviate the need for many other tools. Generally, everyone knows clamps are used to fix an object to a surface so the craftsmen does not need to worry about holding any material steady with his own hands. This almost always improves the quality and safety of any project
Whenever starting a new project it is always important to start with the end in mind. In this article we have broken down the 12 most popular types of woodworking clamps and the projects and budgets they are best suited for. Please read below to find the clamp (or clamps) that best suit your needs.
Bench Clamps
Corner Clamps
Strap Clamps
Parallel Bar Clamps
Pipe Clamps
C-Clamps
Spring Clamps
Deep Throat Bar Clamps
A handscrew clamp is essentially a jaw with screws on either end. Traditionally, the jaws of handscrew clamps are made of harwood, not plastic or metal. This type of clamp is ideal for carpenters who do not want to risk having metal scrape their materials, or if they are working with uneven surfaces. The dual screws allow to clamp to apply a more even force when dealing with workbenches or materials that do not have a evenly flat side.
Locking Clamps
Locking clamps are more commonly used by welders and metal workers than traditional woodworkers. This is because locking clamps are made completely of metal. Typically the Jaws of locking clamps stretch considerably further than a traditional bench or pipe clamps. Locking clamps are especially popular when working with sheet metal. To prevent scratching of metal on metal it is recommended that you purchase rubber pads which can go on the end of the jaws.