Which type of clamp would be your go to?

[Zeddedhed]

I use Record T Bars for heavy stuff (staircases, big thick panels etc) and then I've got a couple of dozen of these from Rutlands:

another two dozen of these from Axi (the earlier version with orange/red heads):

Also in the armoury is a stash (20 or so) of the Irwin black and blue jobbies, a mixed collection of Solo speed clamps, a dozen or so Record G cramps, half a dozen Bessey spring clamps and a box of 10 clamp heads for 25mm bar/timber.

And I still run out.

 

[Bodgers]

I can't seem to find pipe clamps in the UK that aren't extortionate.

Has anyone tried the aluminium bar clamps (silverline and various other brands sell them). I know they're lightweight, but I don't know if they'll be able to provide enough clamping pressure for panel glue ups.

Avoid the box alluminum ones from silverline (and other cheapies) too much flex.

Silverline do a steel 'Expert' sash clamp that is very good value for money and worth taking a risk on. They are heavy though.

Their 'expert' F-Clamps are also decent quality.


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[memzey]

I've heard good things about the Clarke f cramps from machinemart but never actually used them. Can anyone comment from experience?

 

[MikeJhn]

There is not such thing as too many clamps. LOL

Mike

 

[DiscoStu]

I've heard good things about the Clarke f cramps from machinemart but never actually used them. Can anyone comment from experience?

As I posted before I have them and they seem to be ok. I'm no expert and I don't know what people look for but my criteria is simple - does it squeeze wood together until the glue has dried. The Clarke clamps do that. They are cheap and heavy but I'd assume heavy for clamps is no bad thing. I can see a bit of flex in the really long ones when used but only a minor amount and they still clamp well.

I'm going to get a load more when they next do a VAT free shopping day.

 

[MattRoberts]

Silverline do a steel 'Expert' sash clamp that is very good value for money and worth taking a risk on. They are heavy though.

Their 'expert' F-Clamps are also decent quality.


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Thought it was too good to be true!

Yeah, I have two of the expert sash clamps that are about 1.6m long. You're right - they do weigh a tonne!

 

[ED65]

Has anyone tried the aluminium bar clamps (silverline and various other brands sell them). I know they're lightweight, but I don't know if they'll be able to provide enough clamping pressure for panel glue ups.

Avoid the box alluminum ones from silverline (and other cheapies) too much flex.

The cheaper ones made from aluminium extrusions can be stiffened considerably by slipping in a well-fitted bit of timber down their length, completely transforms them apparently. Paul Sellers has a page on this you're interested, Retrofit makes a perfect clamp.

 

[Wuffles]

Has anyone tried the aluminium bar clamps (silverline and various other brands sell them). I know they're lightweight, but I don't know if they'll be able to provide enough clamping pressure for panel glue ups.

Avoid the box alluminum ones from silverline (and other cheapies) too much flex.

The cheaper ones made from aluminium extrusions can be stiffened considerably by slipping in a well-fitted bit of timber down their length, completely transforms them apparently. Paul Sellers has a page on this you're interested, Retrofit makes a perfect clamp.

You'd have to replace the rivets vaguely holding the head in place too. That's probably in the guide you posted a link to, if it's not, it should be.

I'll read it as it seems like a good idea.