The 15 Best Wood Clamps 2020 (Reviews & Guide)

The best wood clamps are handy gears for woodworking. The tool is best for holding wood in place and also helps to accurately and safely measure your work. However, shopping for the best products in the market is not easy. We have come up with a review of the best wood clamps to help you with your research and make your investment worth it. Read through our buyer’s guide for more information on things to consider before buying the clamp. Read our top picks below:

The Best Wood Clamps Reviews

IRWIN QUICK-GRIP Clamps, One-Handed, Mini Bar, 6-Inch

The package and design are such that it boasts of industrial strength that is tamper-proof. As a result, you require a power tool, a case cutter, or a sharp knife to get through to the clamp beneath the packaging. The mini clamp works well for solo projects when you need to do other tasks with the other hand. Besides being easy to handle, the product is versatile, easy to clamp and release, and is available in different sizes. A quick-grip design plus one-handed triggers let you release the clamps quickly. Resin construction combined with hardened steel bars also prevents bending and flexing.

Pros 

• Nice rubber cushioning
• Lightweight
• Fast clamping

Cons 

• A couple of screws break over time due to pressure

Bessey BPC-H34 3/4-Inch H Style Pipe Clamp

Elevate and stabilize your work with the Bessey BPC-H34 3/4-Inch H Style Pipe Clamp. The product allows dual-axis stability that is provided by a unique foot design. Long legs also raise your work off the surface to make it your job easier. The product features a large clamping surface with padded jaws that positively grip your work and protect it from scratches and marring. Large handles also let you exact sufficiently, but positive pressure while another handle grips the bar automatically. Both the handle and the cast jaws are durable and promise smooth action spindle.

Pros 

• Cranked handle
• Durable cast jaws
• Dual-axis stability

Cons 

• The plastic cover for the end of the clamps is flimsy

Can-Do Clamp

Another wood clamps that supports a DIY project is the Can-Do Clamp. The product by MLCS is easy to use and is great for drilling, framing, and other installations. The body is heavy and nice with painted aluminum to give it durable and lasting performance. Threads on the clamp are also of good quality, and it holds firmly with very good gripping. The corners are open so that glue can drip down the joint without messing up the clamp, and it supports different mounting options. The tightening screw is smooth, and the clamp itself is made out of strong metal material. With enough wriggle to give more productivity, the wood clamps is not stiff and is not fixed.

Pros 

• Swivel surface design
• Easy to store
• Mounts at 90⁰ angle

Cons 

• A little tricky to use

TEKTON Mini 6-Inch x 1-1/2-Inch Ratchet Bar Clamp

The TEKTON Mini 6-Inch x 1-1/2-Inch Ratchet Bar Clamp is characterized by strong-reinforced jaw assemblies, heat-treated steel jaws, and many more. A continuous-trigger operated ratchet option ensures precise and consistent pressure application. It also doubles as a spreader if you need to push the pieces apart or against the outside surface. The mini size of the tool qualifies it for use in tight and small places. A quick-release button positions the jaws for even pressure application. Jaw pads also ensure a sufficient grip that won’t damage your project.

Pros

• Rigid and solid grip
• Ratchet is easy to activate
• Strong clamping

Cons 

• The release button is hard to push

E-TING 4Pcs Hand Tool Toggle Clamp

Efficient design and sturdy construction make the E-TING 4Pcs Hand Tool Toggle Clamp a solid griper on your project. Low height design provides maximum clearance, and the clamp provides a non-slip hold. It comes with a vinyl colored grip for comfortable use and easy identification. It is also zinc-plated and coated to give it a strong and reliable performance against corrosion. The design and mechanism on the retracted clamp allow you to remove clamped items vertically. The toggle design will enable it to clamp objects below its base height or just at its height.

Pros 

• Tension is easy to adjust
• Low height design
• Easy to use

Cons 

• They are fairly small

IRWIN QUICK-GRIP Clamps Set, 8-Piece (IRHT83220)

The IRWIN QUICK-GRIP Clamps Set features 8-pieces of mini clamps to let you get the best out of your purchase. The set includes two handi-clamps, four one-handed mini bar clamps, and two spring clamps for use on smaller projects in a confined space. Since the product comes with built-in clamps, you don’t need to buy bars to go with the clamps. Do note, though, that each item is meant for different tasks; hence, they cannot be coupled. The product is not made for massive clamping pressure. Instead, they hold the wood in place tightly, quickly, and with ease without damaging the clamped material.

Pros 

• Clamps are easy to adjust
• High-tech reinforcement
• Quick-release triggers

Cons 

• It takes two hands to press hard enough to get the clamps to open

POWERTEC 71017 Quick Release Band Clamp

The 71017 Quick Release Band Clamp by Powertec clamps on neatly to make your project more convenient. The different jaws on the clamp can be removed independently. However, the angles on the remaining jaws will be at 90⁰ and not 60⁰. By utilizing heavy-duty nylon webbing, the product provides secure and tight clamping, especially for irregular items. For maneuverability, the clamp comes with a quick-release lever that lets you control your project. There is also a hand-screw feature that lets you adjust and tighten the screw. The product is made of premium-quality hard plastic for lasting and regular use.

Pros 

• Ergonomic design
• Fully adjustable and long straps
• Consistent pressure on corners

Cons 

• The webbing stretches during the first use, so you need to tighten it

Yost Tools F124 24″ F-Clamp

The comfort-grip on the main handle of the Yost Tools F124 24″ F-Clamp, is perhaps its most fascinating feature. This is because it provides more torque for more gripping power. There are also dual-clutch plates on the adjustable arms to give superior grip. The plates also prevent the arm from moving when you don’t want it to. A swivel jaw pad fits various shapes, and a plastic pad prevents damage to your project. The adjustable arm design also improves clamping pressure, and combined with the ergonomic handle makes it one of the best wood clamps.

Pros 

• Lightweight
• Rubberized pads
• Strong and well-made

Cons 

• The plastic covers on the ends of the clamps come off easily

Bessey Tools GSCC2.536 Clutch Bar Clamp, 36″

The Bessey Tools GSCC2.536 Clutch Bar Clamp, 36″ is a medium-duty clamp and is best for woodworking and other small projects. Sliding and adjustable jaws combined with a comfortable wooden handle make the product extremely ergonomic. The jaws are made of steel for rugged use and plastic pads to protect your project. The bar also has notches in it that prevents the lower jaw from slipping. Lock bars on the clamp are also tight. Do note, though, that the tool will bow or blow when you exact too much pressure.

Pros 

• Best for small DIYs
• Movement is smooth
• Easy to use

Cons 

• Not for rugged work

HORUSDY Band Clamp, Woodworking Frame Clamp

The HORUSDY Band Clamp, Woodworking Frame Clamp, is another must-have tool for woodwork. The product is designed for assembling drawers, chair frames, picture frames, and other woodwork. The rubber handle is shaped and fitted with a soft anti-slip grip to make it more comfortable to use. The handle plus the woven canvas strap helps to maintain tension. Corner braces on the tool are easy to remove for convenient use on irregular-shaped objects. You can increase the clamp pressure by turning the clamps, and the levers allow quick adjustment and release. Plus, it is easy to wrap around your furniture without marring or marking the finish.

Pros 

• Rubber handles and metal handles
• Holds well
• Lightweight

Cons 

• A little thin

Luchuan Angle Clamps, 4PCS Right Angle Fixing Clip

Not one, but four pieces of the Luchan Angle Clamps reduce surface workload and cuts down on labor time. The product works, not only for 90⁰ saws but also for 45⁰ saws. The parts of the clamp are made of durable and strong materials but are light enough for secure handling. Plated rotating spindle and adjustable floating head ensures precise adjustment and lets you fix workpieces with ease. It also doubles as a multi-purpose tool for different types of woodwork. It also supports a one-handed operation and is strong enough to hold vertical pieces together.

Pros

• Strong springs
• Solid design
• Adjustable jaws

Cons 

• Inconsistent size description

Jorgensen 6″ Spreader/Bar Clamp Set

The unique bar clamp on the Jorgensen 6″ Spreader/Bar Clamp Set is one of the easiest to use clamps in the market. It features a quick-release lever and a comfortable and contoured grip. The combination of both features makes it simple and easy to get a firm grip and release the grip. It also boasts of an excellent strength-to-weight ratio that gives it a strong performance. This is thanks to its lightweight aluminum bar. You can also join two clamps together to provide more coverage area and for more versatility. Reinforced and protective jaws are strong, removable, and replaceable.

Pros 

• Comfortable grip
• Spreader conversion
• Reinforced jaw

Cons 

• Handgrip must be adjusted before you can use the release trigger

Basecent Metal Corner Clamps For Woodworking

The metal corner clamps by Basecent provide 90⁰ right angle clamping for wood. The swing jaws work for two sizes of blocks and rods and lets you join your work with accurate precision. The tool is also durable as it features high-quality die-casting aluminum alloy. Electroplating skin and rubber handle also give it rust-proof performance for length and regular use. The rotatory jaw is easy to loosen and tighten to fit your workpieces automatically. More than use for woodworking, the clamp also works for other solid materials, including plastic, glass, and metal.

Pros 

• Abrasion-resistant
• Easy to adjust
• Ergonomic-quick release handle

Cons 

• The handle on the clamp does not have a cross piece for tightening

ATE Pro. USA 30143 Wood Handscrew Clamp, 10″

The ATE Pro. USA 30143 Wood Handscrew Clamp is neat and is easy to use. One screw is reversed-threaded so that you can arrange the two teeth in a fantastic variety of ways. Large handles on the product are comfortable and ensure torque. Plus, the jaws are adjustable for either a delicate or strong grip.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Sturdy construction
• Large and dense handler

Cons 

• Some buyers don’t like as it is made in China

HORUSDY Quick-Jaw Right Angle 90 Degree Corner Clamp

The HORUSDY Quick-Jaw Right Angle 90⁰ Corner Clamp is another handy tool for woodworking enthusiasts. The device is strong and is easy to adjust to 90⁰ for precise use. The construction is also reliable as it features aluminum steel alloy and quick-release adjustable jaws. Handles on the product are double padded, and it features solid anti-skid material to prevent slips during use. Plus, the clamp is also perfect for drilling, installation, framing, and more.

Pros 

• Aluminum alloy steel
• Anti-skid handle
• Adjustable jaw

Cons 

• May not be the best for weak hands

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Wood Clamps

The Design

The material used and the overall design of the clamp is an essential factor to consider before purchasing the tool. There are different types and designs of clamps that work for a variety of tasks. The popular are:

• Mitre clamps: This type of clamp is best for projects that require you to hold up to three pieces together at a 90⁰ An excellent example is in use for making picture frames, etc.
• Bar clamps: bar clamps work for tables, furniture, and other types of woodworking. However, it is expensive than most clamp types.
• Strap clamps: we recommend strap clamps for circular and irregular shaped objects or frames. This is because the tool lets you clamp significant areas, regardless of the odd angle.
• G and C clamp: this type of clamp is best for use on carpentry and metal projects.
• Edge clamp: edge clamp works best for making straight cuts and can be combined with circular and router saws.

Maneuverability

Clamps can either be lightweight or heavy and could be big or small. Lightweight or small clams are easy to move around. They also fit easily into tight and confined spaced. However, they are not always the strongest. Heavy and big clamps, on the other hand, are strong but not easy to move around. For optimal maneuverability, we recommend a hand clamp that is in-between light and heavy. As such, it promises durable performance and is easy to move about.

Clamping Power

Since the duty of a clamp is to hold things down, the product should be able to keep your wood in place for an extended period. Hence, the product must come with enough power that is needed to see you through your task. The material used in making the clamp is one of the factors that affect clamping power. Cast-iron and steel clamps are durable and can withstand high pressure when it is needed. Aluminum is best for handling small projects as it bends easily. You should also check the clamping mechanism for a build that won’t fall apart under repeated use.

Clamp Size

In a bid to find a wood clamp that is best suited for your project, you must strike a balance between what is big and small. When it comes to choosing clamps, the largest products are not always the best. This is because big and bulky tools are hard to maneuver, unlike smaller objects. Do note, though, that it should not be too small so that it won’t bend under pressure. Another thing to note is the different measurement used when shopping for clamps. The distance between the gripping surfaces is described as the nominal opening. The throat depth, on the other hand, is the distance to the outside of the clamp from the rail. Shop for the right throat depth and nominal opening.

Protection and Padding

Clamps can potentially damage or stretch the surface of the same item that it is holding in place. Hence, we advise against shopping for wood clamps with bare metal. We recommend products with plastic or rubber-coated protective pads as this type offers considerable protection for your project. To make your investment worth it, look for products with padded and rubberized jaws.

Conclusion

Finding the right clamps starts from knowing what it is that you want the clamp for. However, beyond it, the product must be such that it will increase the value of your purchase. The best wood clamps feature strong construction, excellent clamping capacity, and easy-to-use features. We hope our review has brought you closer to shopping for the perfect clamp for your next woodwork.