Types of Woodworking Clamps

There are many different types of woodworking clamps. Some of them include Bar and pipe clamps, corner clamps, trigger clamps, and parallel-jaw clamps. The right type of clamps for your woodworking project is determined by a few things, including the project’s size and weight, the clamp’s purpose, and your preference.

Corner clamps

Corner clamps are a necessary piece of woodworking tools. They help you maintain a perfect 90 degree angle while you glue and screw wood pieces together. These corner clamps are also used to create miter joints.

These tools are available in a range of sizes. Their jaws are made from powder coated aluminum alloy. In addition, they are easy to adjust.

Whether you are a beginner or a professional, you can make strong joints with a corner clamp. The type you choose depends on your project. For example, you need more clamps if your project is bigger. You can also use them to help with doweling. Aside from its versatility, the clamp is also designed to provide strong pressure.

The Tacklife right-angle corner clamp is a high-quality product that is ideal for cabinet making. It has a strong construction with a thick rubberized handle. Also, its heat-treated threaded rod ensures that the clamp won’t warp under heavy use.

Parallel-jaw clamps

If you are looking for a clamp that offers great benefits, you should look into the parallel-jaw clamp. These versatile woodworking clamps are ideal for gluing up cabinet carcasses, or for other tasks where even pressure is required.

The best parallel-jaw clamps are designed with plastic coating over the steel jaws. This prevents marring and increases strength. They are also reversible. Some are able to convert into powerful spreaders.

Many of the parallel-jaw clamps that you see on the market today feature built-in stands. These allow for a one-hand setup. There are also clamps that have finger triggers under the handle.

Other features include screw-type micro-adjustments and rubber-molded handles. These handle designs provide a comfortable grip.

Some parallel-jaw clamps also have removable jaw pads. Removable pads increase the surface area in contact with the board edge. You can save on clamping time and reduce the amount of damage done to the wood.

Another great feature is the ability to slide the jaws in and out. Sliding the jaw opens and closes quickly. But be careful, as glue buildup can make it difficult to slide the jaws.

Bar or pipe clamps

Pipe and bar clamps have many different uses. Both are great woodworking tools that help make jobs easier. When choosing between these two types, it’s important to understand the features, benefits, and limitations of each.

Bar clamps and pipe clamps may be similar in design, but there are key differences. For instance, a bar clamp is more compact, which is handy if you have a small space to work in. They also feature sliding components, which helps to evenly apply pressure on the wood. These are also the type of clamps to use if you’re going to be gluing or sanding your wood.

However, a pipe clamp can be damaged if it’s used on too thick of material. That’s why many builders use them to connect planks edge to edge. Another reason to use them is if you’re building a box.

Pipe clamps are good at securing a wide surface. This is especially helpful if you’re building a sheet from a number of smaller boards.

Trigger clamps

Trigger clamps are used to hold workpieces together. They are usually one-handed and easy to operate. Moreover, these clamps are perfect for a wide variety of applications. Some of the features that make these clamps reliable are their sturdy design, ease of use, and secure grip.

Clamps are available in a variety of types and sizes. For woodworking projects, you need to buy the best quality that you can afford. While low-quality wood clamps are affordable, they may not offer a tight grip and may rust. You can avoid damage to your project by buying a dependable trigger clamp.

Trigger clamps come in a range of sizes, so you can choose the perfect one for your needs. You can opt for smaller clamps for small projects or for bigger ones for more demanding jobs. There are also trigger clamps that can be operated using a ratchet mechanism.

To choose a trigger clamp, look for the jaw opening size, the jaw capacity, the throat depth, and the handle. It is also important to note the psi (pound-force per square inch) that you should use for a given piece of wood. Too much pressure can break or split wood. The ideal clamping force for hardwoods is between 175-250 psi.