All About Clamps Find The Best Clamp For Your Project

Spring Clamps

Spring clamps, also called pinch clamps, are inexpensive and useful for a wide range of light-duty clamping jobs.

Quick Clamps

Quick clamps can be operated with one hand and many models have reversible jaws for use as a spreader to push apart pieces.

Pipe Clamps

When greater clamping strength is needed, consider using pipe clamps. Buy pipe clamp fixtures and slip them onto black-iron pipe. Pipe clamp fixtures are commonly available for use on ½-inch or ¾-inch-diameter pipe.

Bar Clamps

Bar clamps with parallel jaws exert immense pressure evenly to the work, so there’s less chance of the parts bowing.

C-Clamps

This type of clamp is best for metalworking. When using this type of clamp, be sure to protect the wood surfaces with pads. Use C-clamps to hold to hold a framing square to a straightedge when laying out stair stringers.

Specialty Clamps

Specialty work-holding clamps are used to hold two boards at a right angle.

Miter Clamps

A miter clamp with a screw handle provides a quick, accurate way to assemble right-angle butt joints, miter joints, or T-joints.

Three-Way C-Clamps

A three-way C-clamp has three screws and is useful for securing face frame to cabinets. Just be sure to protect the wood surfaces with pads.

Strap Clamps

A strap clamp, also called a band or web clamp, is ideal for securing irregular or oddly shaped assemblies, such as stools, chairs and tables. Some strap clamps must be tightened with a screwdriver or wrench. Others are equipped with a convenient ratcheting mechanism. This information was originally presented by This Old House TV.