11 Best Clamps You Need for Your Woodworking Shop: Essential Tools (Review 2023)
Clamps: the unsung heroes of a woodworker's arsenal. The right clamp ensures precision and provides an extra set of hands when you need it most. Whether you're building cabinets or crafting intricate joinery, here are the 11 essential clamps that you need in your woodworking shop for 2023.
1. JORGENSEN 48-inch Bar Clamps, 90°Cabinet Master Parallel Jaw Bar Clamp Set, 2-pack
Best for precision and stability, the JORGENSEN 36-inch Bar Clamps, large clamping surface guarantees an evenly distributed clamping force, perfect for heavy-duty tasks like gluing large panels or cabinets.
2. Irwin Quick-Grip 24”
Need quick and versatile clamping for small to medium tasks? The Irwin Quick-Grip is your go-to. It features one-handed operation, making it super practical and a staple in any workshop.
3. JORGENSEN 2-pack Steel Bar Clamps Set, 24-inch
JORGENSEN's 2-pack Steel Bar Clamps offer versatile clamping with a wide opening capacity. They're perfect for a range of tasks, including clamping wide or awkward workpieces.
4. Shop Fox D2469 Aluminum Bar Clamp, 72-Inch
Perfect for long and sizeable clamping jobs, the Shop Fox D2469 Aluminum Bar Clamp is sturdy yet lightweight and offers an impressive 72-inch clamping capacity.
5. Jorgensen Quick Grip
Reliable and easy to handle, the Jorgensen Quick Grip is an excellent general-purpose clamp suitable for a wide range of woodworking projects.
6. PONY 6-inch, 4-inch Heavy Duty Metal Spring Clamps
If you're in need of versatile clamping for light-duty tasks, PONY's Heavy Duty Metal Spring Clamps offer flexibility and strength in a compact size, making them ideal for securing your workpieces in a pinch.
7. BESSEY 540-6 Ductile Alloy C-Clamp
For those heavy-duty clamping tasks, the BESSEY 540-6 Ductile Alloy C-Clamp delivers. It provides impressive clamping force and a substantial throat depth to handle your most robust workpieces.
8. Bessey Tools VAS-23 2K Variable Angle Strap Clamp
The Bessey Tools VAS-23 2K Variable Angle Strap Clamp is your best friend when it comes to clamping irregular or awkward shapes. Its unique design allows it to adjust to varying angles and shapes, offering unparalleled flexibility.
9. Jorgensen 10-Inch Adjustable Handscrew
Need a clamp that offers maximum control? The Jorgensen 10-Inch Adjustable Handscrew is for you. It allows for micro-adjustments and its wooden jaws won't mar your workpieces.
10. Y&Y Decor 4 PACK 3/4" Wood Gluing Pipe Clamp
The Y&Y Decor 3/4" Wood Gluing Pipe Clamp, available in a 4-pack, is a versatile and durable addition to your woodworking toolkit. Perfect for projects requiring extensive gluing, these clamps can accommodate large and intricate workpieces, thanks to their customizable length. They feature a large clamping surface for excellent pressure distribution, a sturdy cast iron construction, and an easy-to-grip handle for smooth adjustments.
With a clutch-disc system for easy adjustments and secure locking, these clamps are easy to use and versatile, making them a worthy investment for any craftsman. These clamps are best for long lengths for example anything 8’ or longer. You’ll need to buy your own pipe which you can get at Lowes or Home Depot.
11. E-TING 4Pcs Hand Tool Toggle Clamp 201B Antislip Red Horizontal Clamp
When quick clamping and releasing is crucial, the E-TING Hand Tool Toggle Clamp shines. With its anti-slip features and quick-release mechanism, it's a must-have for efficient workflow in your shop.
In summary, investing in the right clamps will be a game-changer for your woodworking projects. These 11 clamps offer versatility, durability, and precision that cater to a broad spectrum of clamping needs in your workshop.