I have to duck when going under the main beam in the middle of the house. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. If you do not allow these cookies, we will not know when you have visited our site, and will not be able to provide you the best experience possible. We talked about that, but Tom knows how much I love my parallel clamps, and I think he mistakes that for need a bit. Somehow he didn't like that. For any difficulty using this site with a screen reader or because of a disability, please contact us at 1-800-444-3353 or cs@harborfreight.com. What is Harbor Freight? 60540 Expired: 4/30/19 - $8.99 Coupon Code: '18178420', ITC PITTSBURGH 48" ALUMINUM BAR CLAMP Lot No. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. You must be logged in to reply to this topic. I have some other clamps, which are great but mostly specific use, and for specific projects. You can also pick up smaller Bessey F clamps at Home Dept. If you add in their Framing Set and K-body Extender, you've got a much more versatile and adaptable clamping 'system' rather than trying to maneuver 6' of pipe around the shop. Here is the link to the Harbor Freight Clamp he is talking about: https://www.harborfreight.com/36-in-aluminum-bar-clamp-60539.html. They don't have a deep reach like parallel clamps, but I simply clamp from both sides when I glue up a panel. Is it OK to copy projects from the magazine? I started with a half dozen F-Clamps in 6", 12", 18", 24" and 36" apiece and then doubled up on those as I went along. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". The bar clamp has carbon steel jaws for a tight grip and has adjustable stops approximately every inch. Aluminum Bar Clamp - Item 60540 / 38185. You should be in charge of YouTube shop tip videos instead of people who love to hear themselves talk. The cookie is created when the JavaScript library executes and there are no existing __utma cookies. Nobody has mentioned good old-fashioned, but less-and-less-known, wooden hand clamps. I have several bar clamps but honestly the pipe clamps are just as good although a bit lighter (price is not worth it for me). I get a pipe at the store (6 ft if they have it but lately it has been 10 ft) and cut them in half. F clamps, and while I have some Bessy, I find the harbor freight ones just fine. 
Some ideas: I would consider 6" quick adjust bar clamps. They will flex a lot until you insert the wood, and potentially mar your work. I did use my 'C' clamps when I was building my work bench, not that much lately. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Oh, well. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. They also help us identify sections of the site that can be optimized for the best browsing experience. https://www.facebook.com/hfqpdb. Don't get any long than 48". 60540 Expired: 2/29/20 - $8.99 Coupon Code: '54927457', ITC PITTSBURGH 48" ALUMINUM BAR CLAMP Lot No. I have some of those [the five footers] and that's a good tip. PAUL SELLERS I have broke a few and a few had soft ratchet cuts i cut the bad ones down and returned the broke ones for free replacement. This may be controversial [that's o.k., when haven't I been? I like the aluminum because of their lightness. Sold them all and bought twice as many Bessey heavy F clamps. Doesn't this just move the problem to the next weakest link. Original coupon only. Both Universal and Jorgensen are lifetime. C-clamps? Like someone else mentioned my f-style clutch-type clamps that I bought when starting out get used the least now. and I reminded him that if your joints truly fit you don't need too much pressure to hold them together. UNLIMITED Membership is like taking a master class in woodworking for less than $10 a month. Gonna have to look that up. Don't try to get enough for all future projects. They adapt to angles. I use em mostly in conjunction with my parallel clamps when Im running short on a large carcase or multiple panels, etc. Would if be OK to, despite their price, suggest Bessey parallel clamps. Don't get scammed by websites pretending to be Harbor Freight. I do use mostly the 12 size, thoughtheyre almost as handy as spring clamps. It takes a pretty crappy, flimsy clamp, and turns it into a lightweight strong clamp. bar clamp is constructed of sturdy aluminum for light weight and stability. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. 60540 Expired: 9/30/19 - $8.99 Coupon Code: '31980239', ITC PITTSBURGH 48" ALUMINUM BAR CLAMP Lot No. I use spring clamps a lot. The HF ones are great for beginner/budget, but this is a case of you get what you pay for.. Get 10% Off Your Entire Purchase When You Open a New Account, Get our best deals and latest news delivered straight to you. Click for full details. Nice to know such an effective tip is so easy to do. They have serious drawbacks,, but they are very handy.. It's just that simple! Buying a bunch of clamps that don't meet your needs is a waste of money IMO. LOL!!! Limitations apply. Ideal for woodworkers, cabinetmakers or any hobbyist restoring furniture, this 48 in. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Note: Specifications are approximate and subject to change. Thanks! I just used the wood screws today. I learned that the hard way. I have 12 of them - various sizes. 10/01/2020 - $19.99
.). My go to clamps are my Bessey Parallel clamps but then I build mostly larger items. Jonathan Katz Moses is not going to be up voting this comment. I also recommend buying clamps in groups of 4's especially for case work 2 clamps are seldom sufficient. They make excellent stops for machines. 60540 Expired: 12/31/18 - $8.99 Coupon Code: '59662343', Like us on Facebook! Lifetime Warranty. Don't get scammed by websites pretending to be Harbor Freight. Save 47% by shopping at Harbor Freight. Ideal for woodworkers, cabinetmakers or any hobbyist restoring furniture, this 48 in. They are pricey, but very strong. I have more ideas for things to try with them, but I just wanted to get on with my work. up to about 36though not for glue-ups or holding for work, more for testing fit/size. It makes reaching up and grabbing one very convenient when my hands are busy. I use 6 inch and deep 12 inch. That's just me. The cookie is not used by ga.js. The cookie is updated every time data is sent to Google Analytics. But thanks much for your thoughtsvery much appreciated. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". I use my Irwin pipe clamps all the time. A HFT 3/4" pipe clamp almost did in hours of work for me just the other day. Look the same and seem like they need the same setup, https://www.harborfreight.com/48-in-aluminum-bar-clamp-60540.html. I have two bessy parallel clamps that are super but i bought them too short and they near broke the bank 15 years ago. Get 10% Off Your Entire Purchase When You Open a New Account, Get our best deals and latest news delivered straight to you. Enter now for your chance to win more than $2,000 worth of woodworking equipment from Woodpeckers. They are light, versatile, and cheap (and when squeezed down over a band-aid, the bleeding immediately stops). We guarantee this Tool to be free from defects in material and workmanship for the life of the product. The Harbor Freight F clamps I would actually put up against Bessey with the exception the pads fall off a lot easier. Didnt even need a receipt. This cookie is set by Google Analytics and is used to distinguish users and sessions. You probably will branch off to other projects in the future and need different clamps for those jobs. The purpose of the cookie is to determine if the user's browser supports cookies. They are handy for weighing down a glueup. Rabbeting a shelf; Strength vs. appearance, Editor's Letter: A new tool with every project. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. It wont twist anymore but everything else will break on it. And we can sell them for a fraction of the price because we cut out the middleman and pass the savings on to you. Sometimes, under pressure, the clamp head will pivot and dig into the bar making it impossible to get clamping pressure. Stronger than they look and useful for so many things round the shop. This cookie is set by doubleclick.net. At first you don't know how the hell they work and why someone would use them but once you get used to them they are indispensable. Get 10% Off Your Entire Purchase When You Open a New Account, Get our best deals and latest news delivered straight to you. The bar clamp has carbon steel jaws for a tight grip and has adjustable stops approximately every inch. Become an UNLIMITED member and get it all: searchable online archive of every issue, how-to videos, Complete Illustrated Guide to Woodworking digital series, print magazine, e-newsletter, and more. Casework, bookshelves, dressers, etc have entirely different clamping need than jewelry boxes. But. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. I rarely use the quick clamps I have. C clamps are nice but I use them more for metal than wood. Instead of a hacksaw, you might consider clamping those Bessy F-clamps horizontally - notches up - and use an 4"/4" angle grinder to "Refresh" them. Yes, the one's from the mid-'90's were "El Junko", but thus far, the ones (with the stand-off feet, at least) made in this millennium I've had no problems with. "(fairly new hobbyist with a fraction of the clamps owned by more experienced folks). These cookies are set via embedded youtube-videos. A couple decades ago if I ever ran out of 24" k-bodys I bought more at the next sale. The cookie is used to determine new sessions/visits. And we can sell them for a fraction of the price because we cut out the middleman and pass the savings on to you. I feel the five footer flexes too much for me they tend to pop off when stretched out at the end. I have a bucket of c clamps I have not touched in a couple of decades. Super subject with a bunch of right answers. Bessey clamps are great but are expensive. There are less expensive versions of parallel clamps as well, my son just got some from Tay Tools that look promising at probably 30% less than my Bessey. They eat large amounts of space and honing your choices to fewer clamps that meet your needs is not a bad thing ;-). I have more of those than any other type. Lifetime Warranty. The one I have is the only tool/device I have from my grandfathers farm, and I use it now and again just cause of that, though I know hed tell me to throw the dang thing out and use a better/easier clamp. I finally managed to give all but a few of my quick grip clamps away as I find them essentially useless. Right now a 2 pack of 48" parallel clamps at taytools.com is $89.99 and it is a much better clamp in my opinion. The ones I bought to "get started" are generally the last to get used. Tighter tolerences lately Thatll save him a little over going for parallel bar clamps, and hes already picked up a handful of 12 quick clamps, and two handfuls of spring clamps. Theyve done a lot to ameliorate my stress during glue ups. Personally I think pipe clamps are awful and don't own a single one. (Well, probably a few others hiding here and there, but only one Ive intentionally kept.) For California consumers: For more information about our privacy practices, click here. Mostly thme hf ones get grabbed first. Square cast-aluminum bar gives you plenty of stability for edge gluing, Quick adjustments approximately every inch. We guarantee this Tool to be free from defects in material and workmanship for the life of the product. Haha Great tip! The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Advertisement". Clamp recommendations will depend greatly on the projects he intends to build. I love the heavy duty Bessey F clamps -- not the ones with the clutch, which I hate. A good clamp is worth its weight, but some times you just need extra clamps. I love the quick clamps, but use mostly 6 inch, and some 12. General purpose platform session cookies that are used to maintain users' state across page requests. I think they go as deep as what, 20, 22 inches? We guarantee this Tool to be free from defects in material and workmanship for the life of the product. I also use my 6" and 12" F clamps (4 of each) a lot. When you visit our website, we store cookies on your browser to collect information. After that buy as projects dictate, preferring the better quality items where you can. Maybe a couple of 12 deep throat clamps. It and it's brother hit the recycle bin. 10/02/2020 - $14.49
Other lengths are good too. Sometimes they work, sometimes they dont, and I just am no longer willing to risk a glue up. (One of those: "Hunched shoulders and slopping foreheads" ones. Personally the quick clamps are more of a luxury and are easily replaced by my f-body clamps which I feel are more versatile. Id attach this block so that it rides against the bar, preventing the sloppy jaw from flopping over and digging into the bar, which is the source of my problems. Before you use the bar clamps, remove the head and file the collar b/c they are bad about binding. Not really affecting function yet, but Im thinking the rivets are going to fail eventually. 60540 Expired: 4/30/20 - $8.99 Coupon Code: '46535028', ITC PITTSBURGH 48" ALUMINUM BAR CLAMP Lot No. My enthusiasm is dragging along a friend as well, and hes starting to set up shop in his garage. Begone heavy clumsy parallel clamps. I would start there, in whatever combination makes the most sense for the next project in mind, and maybe throw in a couple 6-12" quick clamps for basic shop things. I have a lot of pipe clamps, and until I started using parallel clamps they were my go-to for carcases and panels; indeed, I might just give Tom some of my pipe clamps. I use the spring clamps every now and then. one can get a little clamp-crazy and snap up good deals as they wander along through life. F-clamps? For any difficulty using this site with a screen reader or because of a disability, please contact us at 1-800-444-3353 or [emailprotected]. 2022 The Taunton Press, Inc. All rights reserved. For any difficulty using this site with a screen reader or because of a disability, please contact us at 1-800-444-3353 or cs@harborfreight.com. Home depot sells the Bessey parallel 24"& 50" clamps for $50ish a piece and has a really great deal on an assorted pack of light duty bessey F clamps. I'll chime in again because I think it is important to keep in mind the OP's friend plan to build mostly casework. Editor's Letter: Technology and the future of woodworking. I added wood overlays on each end to aid assembly. If you do not allow these cookies, then some or all of these services may not function properly, and your browsing experience may be degraded. I think the 24 and 36 are a waste of money. I use mostly 24 inch, but if you can only afford a couple, longer is more cost effective. And we can sell them for a fraction of the price because we cut out the middleman and pass the savings on to you. They go on sale a lot, which I why I have them. I use the quick clamps as one-handed clamps, kinda like spring clamps for when I cant quite get the spring clamps to reach, or similar. I saw this on a YouTube video a couple years ago. Hes thinking hell start with the slip-style F clampshe played around with mine with the clutches, and he agrees, the clutches arent for him. You really don't want to be using F clamps for this. 24 inch will do 24 in. I have used mine for many years at the schools I have had and they work there so in a home shop used once or twice a week they should last fine. I bought a couple a few weeks back and the quality is coming back up a bit. Giving a very funny, imaginative twist to the "Edward Scissor-hands" concept, Elmaduro. My approach is about getting the most good enough clamps for the money so you can get a good collection. 8 SEPTEMBER 2014 AT 6:20 PM On the otherhand, I use the HB type and have found them more than adequate once retrofitted. They excel at holding things for work while being themselves clamped to a surface with something like an f-clamp. I waited way too long into my woodworking career -- 25 years or so -- before I got to know how useful these babies are. Ive tried modifying them in various ways, but they have never been reliable. Get complete site access to video workshops, digital plans library, online archive, and more, plus the print magazine. So, when you make that project video, is it going to be "The 'Hard-Hatted', or the 'Hard-Headed' Woodworker"? A bunch of Irwin Quick Clamps? Look, I know Im gonna need clamps, and I could just come steal some of yours when I need em, but I dont wanna be waiting for them to arrive or whatever when Ive got a free weekend and all thats slowing me down is not having the right clamps., 2 each, Quick Clamps, in 12, 24, 36 inches.Four 4 hand spring clampsTwo 3/4 pipe clamp assemblies and 2 each of 4-and 6-foot lengths of pipeTwo 48 parallel clamps2 each, F-style deep-throated bar clamps, 12, 24, 36 inches, I didnt try to price it all out, but I figure weve gotta be getting close to that $300 mark with a list like that, and it seemed like a good list. This cookie is used by Google Analytics to understand user interaction with the website. My clamp of last resort, they reside (literally) under my bench. The cookie is created when the JavaScript library executes and there are no existing __utma cookies. It's just that simple! To fill out my clamp collection I went to Harbor Freight and bought a selection of aluminum bar clamps. But I can think of a couple scenarios wherein a 12 or so throat would be nice. The information collected might relate to you, your preferences or your device, and is mostly used to make the site work as you expect it to and to provide a more personalized web experience. For California consumers: more information about our privacy practices. Clamps are a lot like router bits, chisels, planes, and saw blades; what is right for one may not be right for another BUT, there is a baseline of items most folks use. I'd suggest this friend in need of a clamp starter selection look into HFT's Pittsburgh brand F-Style and Pipe clamps. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Tom just sat here reading through the comments and says hes now got a pretty good idea. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. 
I will add how many of one thing will you make? (I suggest waxing the shafts to allow easy glue removal - or put a strip of painter tape where glue squeeze out would get on the shaft.) I also have a bunch of spring clamps. I have the two of the HF heavy duty ratcheting clamps and they work very well. You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but if you do so, some parts of the site will not work. Stay away from the longer F clamps and the cheap quick grip type clamps. The clamps I gathered as I needed them are the ones I use the most. They are the only clamps I'm looking to add to my little old collection these days. Those awful wood screw clamps you have that I dont know how to use? Note: Specifications are approximate and subject to change. Another option, again pricier than the Pittsburgh clamps at HF: Dubuque aluminum bar clamps. The cookie is used to affinitize a client to an instance of an Azure Web App. For California consumers: more information about our privacy practices. I would only add that it is worth getting a variety to begin with. (I will never swear under oath that I have not used the 10 ton load.) The cheap ones do not work for me. The cookie is used to calculate visitor, session, campaign data and keep track of site usage for the site's analytics report. Interesting that you mention that right off the bat. For long lengths, pipe clamps are the most budget friendly. It has good stuff too, I bought a small table saw for cutting ceramic tiles for $45 years ago and surprisingly still working. I'll probably pickup some handscrews soon but not as much as clamps as work holding tools. For any difficulty using this site with a screen reader or because of a disability, please contact us at 1-800-444-3353 or cs@harborfreight.com. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Expensive, for sure. The main difference is the Harbor freight ones are blue, usually. Im getting back into woodworking, having a serious go at it this time, after a long lay-off from a little of this, a little of that a long time ago. Those things are heavy. We have invested millions of dollars in our own test labs and factories, so our tools will go toe-to-toe with the top professional brands. I like them. Since most new woodworkers start building casework with plywood not solid wood I would say you could skip the 24" parallel clamps and get 4 x 30 or 36" and 4 x 48" throw in 4 x 12" clamps of some type me I would do f-body because they can apply more pressure when needed than quick clamps but I wouldn't argue to strenuously if you wanted quick clamps. A 3/4" pipe clamp cost $15-17 a 48" piece of black pipe about $15 so a minimum of $30 ea. [Put the board to be planed edge down on your bench, clamp it from one end with the hand-screw laying flat on the bench and then use the second clamp to clamp the first one to your bench.] These cookies enable the website to provide enhanced functionality and personalization. I had a bunch of parallel clamps. Once you learn to use them properly they are indispensable. Pipe clamps. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you which amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or filling in forms. My only 'must-buy' are small quick-clamps. 60540 Expired: 12/31/19 - $8.99 Coupon Code: '15552462', ITC PITTSBURGH 48" ALUMINUM BAR CLAMP Lot No. So it breaks down to what you are building today. So first I would suggest he think long and hard about what he will be building as he learns. My list-topper is the Rocker "sure-foot" aluminum bar clamp. We have invested millions of dollars in our own test labs and factories, so our tools will go toe-to-toe with the top professional brands. I would have no use for longer versions, if you have parallel and bar clamps. Probably a couple dozen 12" UniKlamps alone. Get instant access to over 100 digital plans available only to UNLIMITED members. I kept doing this until I stopped running out during glue ups. I have a bunch of HF 'F' clamps. Like router bits, buying a set without actually knowing how you might use them often results in things bought but, not used. I bought HF parallel clamps when they still had them and they work fine. Its one of the reasons I really like the one-handed clamps. I like the Bessy with the feet. It will probably be necessary to drill the moving clamp face to attach the block with a screw or two. I tend to get 12-18 inch, they are my go to for small stuff. To the OP, if your friend is a patient person, camelcamelcamel will let you know about sales on Amazon. Parallel clamps? However you may visit Cookie Settings to provide a controlled consent. Almost all of my clamps are stored in between the joists, or, in the case of quick clamps, clamped to the joists themselves. Or giving short shrift to? Compare our price of $15.99 to IRWIN at $29.99 (model number: 1855412). Don't get scammed by websites pretending to be Harbor Freight. I use them all the time. bar clamp is constructed of sturdy aluminum for light weight and stability. Thanks for the tip on Taylor Toolwork. It is a way to take you clamp money and spread it out a bit further. But theres gotta be some sort of good starting point. The F clamps I use, Ill admit, are mostly the Besseys with the clutches; I dont like em, but Ive got em, and they work, though I dont have any with a 12 or more throat, and I wish I did. Too much of? I haven't owned a spring clamp in decades but have come to see value in quick acting clamps sold by Armor, they self adjust and can put a pretty good amount of clamping pressure on if you can squeeze them one handed. I set a target price, forgot about it, got an email notification, and bought them on sale. The first clamps i got from hf were pretty good then paul happened and they started to make em faster and looser (I picked up a pair of 12 Jorgensen wooden screw clamps for him, too. It does make a huge difference! Combine those with some cauls and I can do a lot. Then insert a section of hardwood in the channel to stiffen up the bar. Welcome! I'm curious, GDB, what, exactly, went wrong with your HFT pipe clamp(s)? Start your 14-day FREE trial - and get building! | Customer Service | Download the Harbor Freight App | Harbor Freight Newsroom| Security & Privacy | Do Not Sell My Personal Information | Terms & Conditions | CA Transparency in Supply Chains Act | Supplier Code of Conduct | Jobs at Harbor Freight, Copyright 2022 Harbor Freight Tools | 26677 Agoura Road | Calabasas, CA 91302 | 1-800-444-3353. I have given up on these clamps. To receive the coupon prices online, the coupon code(s) must be entered into your shopping cart. The cookies store information anonymously and assign a randomly generated number to identify unique visitors. https://www.bessey.de/en-US/BESSEY-Tools-North-America/Products/Clamping-Tools/K-Body-Parallel-and-case-clamps. Say Ive got $300 to spend on clamps, to prime the pump, so to speak. No other meaning of "Compare to" should be implied. If you do much case work parallel clamps are great IMHO. Start your 14-day FREE trial - and get building. The parallel clamps work great for this kind of work. 10/22/2019 - $14.49, ITC PITTSBURGH 48" ALUMINUM BAR CLAMP Lot No. Parallel clamps are my favorite, it's interesting to see in this post that many people love them, so not-so-much. There is just too much play in the head. Foam insulation in a can is another good option for stabilizing hollow objects but without much weight. It does not store any personal data. Square cast-aluminum bar gives you plenty of stability for edge gluing, Quick adjustments approximately every inch. And we can sell them for a fraction of the price because we cut out the middleman and pass the savings on to you.
Some ideas: I would consider 6" quick adjust bar clamps. They will flex a lot until you insert the wood, and potentially mar your work. I did use my 'C' clamps when I was building my work bench, not that much lately. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Oh, well. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. They also help us identify sections of the site that can be optimized for the best browsing experience. https://www.facebook.com/hfqpdb. Don't get any long than 48". 60540 Expired: 2/29/20 - $8.99 Coupon Code: '54927457', ITC PITTSBURGH 48" ALUMINUM BAR CLAMP Lot No. I have some of those [the five footers] and that's a good tip. PAUL SELLERS I have broke a few and a few had soft ratchet cuts i cut the bad ones down and returned the broke ones for free replacement. This may be controversial [that's o.k., when haven't I been? I like the aluminum because of their lightness. Sold them all and bought twice as many Bessey heavy F clamps. Doesn't this just move the problem to the next weakest link. Original coupon only. Both Universal and Jorgensen are lifetime. C-clamps? Like someone else mentioned my f-style clutch-type clamps that I bought when starting out get used the least now. and I reminded him that if your joints truly fit you don't need too much pressure to hold them together. UNLIMITED Membership is like taking a master class in woodworking for less than $10 a month. Gonna have to look that up. Don't try to get enough for all future projects. They adapt to angles. I use em mostly in conjunction with my parallel clamps when Im running short on a large carcase or multiple panels, etc. Would if be OK to, despite their price, suggest Bessey parallel clamps. Don't get scammed by websites pretending to be Harbor Freight. I do use mostly the 12 size, thoughtheyre almost as handy as spring clamps. It takes a pretty crappy, flimsy clamp, and turns it into a lightweight strong clamp. bar clamp is constructed of sturdy aluminum for light weight and stability. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. 60540 Expired: 9/30/19 - $8.99 Coupon Code: '31980239', ITC PITTSBURGH 48" ALUMINUM BAR CLAMP Lot No. I use spring clamps a lot. The HF ones are great for beginner/budget, but this is a case of you get what you pay for.. Get 10% Off Your Entire Purchase When You Open a New Account, Get our best deals and latest news delivered straight to you. Click for full details. Nice to know such an effective tip is so easy to do. They have serious drawbacks,, but they are very handy.. It's just that simple! Buying a bunch of clamps that don't meet your needs is a waste of money IMO. LOL!!! Limitations apply. Ideal for woodworkers, cabinetmakers or any hobbyist restoring furniture, this 48 in. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Note: Specifications are approximate and subject to change. Thanks! I just used the wood screws today. I learned that the hard way. I have 12 of them - various sizes. 10/01/2020 - $19.99
.). My go to clamps are my Bessey Parallel clamps but then I build mostly larger items. Jonathan Katz Moses is not going to be up voting this comment. I also recommend buying clamps in groups of 4's especially for case work 2 clamps are seldom sufficient. They make excellent stops for machines. 60540 Expired: 12/31/18 - $8.99 Coupon Code: '59662343', Like us on Facebook! Lifetime Warranty. Don't get scammed by websites pretending to be Harbor Freight. Save 47% by shopping at Harbor Freight. Ideal for woodworkers, cabinetmakers or any hobbyist restoring furniture, this 48 in. They are pricey, but very strong. I have more ideas for things to try with them, but I just wanted to get on with my work. up to about 36though not for glue-ups or holding for work, more for testing fit/size. It makes reaching up and grabbing one very convenient when my hands are busy. I use 6 inch and deep 12 inch. That's just me. The cookie is not used by ga.js. The cookie is updated every time data is sent to Google Analytics. But thanks much for your thoughtsvery much appreciated. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". I use my Irwin pipe clamps all the time. A HFT 3/4" pipe clamp almost did in hours of work for me just the other day. Look the same and seem like they need the same setup, https://www.harborfreight.com/48-in-aluminum-bar-clamp-60540.html. I have two bessy parallel clamps that are super but i bought them too short and they near broke the bank 15 years ago. Get 10% Off Your Entire Purchase When You Open a New Account, Get our best deals and latest news delivered straight to you. Enter now for your chance to win more than $2,000 worth of woodworking equipment from Woodpeckers. They are light, versatile, and cheap (and when squeezed down over a band-aid, the bleeding immediately stops). We guarantee this Tool to be free from defects in material and workmanship for the life of the product. The Harbor Freight F clamps I would actually put up against Bessey with the exception the pads fall off a lot easier. Didnt even need a receipt. This cookie is set by Google Analytics and is used to distinguish users and sessions. You probably will branch off to other projects in the future and need different clamps for those jobs. The purpose of the cookie is to determine if the user's browser supports cookies. They are handy for weighing down a glueup. Rabbeting a shelf; Strength vs. appearance, Editor's Letter: A new tool with every project. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. It wont twist anymore but everything else will break on it. And we can sell them for a fraction of the price because we cut out the middleman and pass the savings on to you. Sometimes, under pressure, the clamp head will pivot and dig into the bar making it impossible to get clamping pressure. Stronger than they look and useful for so many things round the shop. This cookie is set by doubleclick.net. At first you don't know how the hell they work and why someone would use them but once you get used to them they are indispensable. Get 10% Off Your Entire Purchase When You Open a New Account, Get our best deals and latest news delivered straight to you. The bar clamp has carbon steel jaws for a tight grip and has adjustable stops approximately every inch. Become an UNLIMITED member and get it all: searchable online archive of every issue, how-to videos, Complete Illustrated Guide to Woodworking digital series, print magazine, e-newsletter, and more. Casework, bookshelves, dressers, etc have entirely different clamping need than jewelry boxes. But. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. I rarely use the quick clamps I have. C clamps are nice but I use them more for metal than wood. Instead of a hacksaw, you might consider clamping those Bessy F-clamps horizontally - notches up - and use an 4"/4" angle grinder to "Refresh" them. Yes, the one's from the mid-'90's were "El Junko", but thus far, the ones (with the stand-off feet, at least) made in this millennium I've had no problems with. "(fairly new hobbyist with a fraction of the clamps owned by more experienced folks). These cookies are set via embedded youtube-videos. A couple decades ago if I ever ran out of 24" k-bodys I bought more at the next sale. The cookie is used to determine new sessions/visits. And we can sell them for a fraction of the price because we cut out the middleman and pass the savings on to you. I feel the five footer flexes too much for me they tend to pop off when stretched out at the end. I have a bucket of c clamps I have not touched in a couple of decades. Super subject with a bunch of right answers. Bessey clamps are great but are expensive. There are less expensive versions of parallel clamps as well, my son just got some from Tay Tools that look promising at probably 30% less than my Bessey. They eat large amounts of space and honing your choices to fewer clamps that meet your needs is not a bad thing ;-). I have more of those than any other type. Lifetime Warranty. The one I have is the only tool/device I have from my grandfathers farm, and I use it now and again just cause of that, though I know hed tell me to throw the dang thing out and use a better/easier clamp. I finally managed to give all but a few of my quick grip clamps away as I find them essentially useless. Right now a 2 pack of 48" parallel clamps at taytools.com is $89.99 and it is a much better clamp in my opinion. The ones I bought to "get started" are generally the last to get used. Tighter tolerences lately Thatll save him a little over going for parallel bar clamps, and hes already picked up a handful of 12 quick clamps, and two handfuls of spring clamps. Theyve done a lot to ameliorate my stress during glue ups. Personally I think pipe clamps are awful and don't own a single one. (Well, probably a few others hiding here and there, but only one Ive intentionally kept.) For California consumers: For more information about our privacy practices, click here. Mostly thme hf ones get grabbed first. Square cast-aluminum bar gives you plenty of stability for edge gluing, Quick adjustments approximately every inch. We guarantee this Tool to be free from defects in material and workmanship for the life of the product. Haha Great tip! The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Advertisement". Clamp recommendations will depend greatly on the projects he intends to build. I love the heavy duty Bessey F clamps -- not the ones with the clutch, which I hate. A good clamp is worth its weight, but some times you just need extra clamps. I love the quick clamps, but use mostly 6 inch, and some 12. General purpose platform session cookies that are used to maintain users' state across page requests. I think they go as deep as what, 20, 22 inches? We guarantee this Tool to be free from defects in material and workmanship for the life of the product. I also use my 6" and 12" F clamps (4 of each) a lot. When you visit our website, we store cookies on your browser to collect information. After that buy as projects dictate, preferring the better quality items where you can. Maybe a couple of 12 deep throat clamps. It and it's brother hit the recycle bin. 10/02/2020 - $14.49
Other lengths are good too. Sometimes they work, sometimes they dont, and I just am no longer willing to risk a glue up. (One of those: "Hunched shoulders and slopping foreheads" ones. Personally the quick clamps are more of a luxury and are easily replaced by my f-body clamps which I feel are more versatile. Id attach this block so that it rides against the bar, preventing the sloppy jaw from flopping over and digging into the bar, which is the source of my problems. Before you use the bar clamps, remove the head and file the collar b/c they are bad about binding. Not really affecting function yet, but Im thinking the rivets are going to fail eventually. 60540 Expired: 4/30/20 - $8.99 Coupon Code: '46535028', ITC PITTSBURGH 48" ALUMINUM BAR CLAMP Lot No. My enthusiasm is dragging along a friend as well, and hes starting to set up shop in his garage. Begone heavy clumsy parallel clamps. I would start there, in whatever combination makes the most sense for the next project in mind, and maybe throw in a couple 6-12" quick clamps for basic shop things. I have a lot of pipe clamps, and until I started using parallel clamps they were my go-to for carcases and panels; indeed, I might just give Tom some of my pipe clamps. I use the spring clamps every now and then. one can get a little clamp-crazy and snap up good deals as they wander along through life. F-clamps? For any difficulty using this site with a screen reader or because of a disability, please contact us at 1-800-444-3353 or [emailprotected]. 2022 The Taunton Press, Inc. All rights reserved. For any difficulty using this site with a screen reader or because of a disability, please contact us at 1-800-444-3353 or cs@harborfreight.com. Home depot sells the Bessey parallel 24"& 50" clamps for $50ish a piece and has a really great deal on an assorted pack of light duty bessey F clamps. I'll chime in again because I think it is important to keep in mind the OP's friend plan to build mostly casework. Editor's Letter: Technology and the future of woodworking. I added wood overlays on each end to aid assembly. If you do not allow these cookies, then some or all of these services may not function properly, and your browsing experience may be degraded. I think the 24 and 36 are a waste of money. I use mostly 24 inch, but if you can only afford a couple, longer is more cost effective. And we can sell them for a fraction of the price because we cut out the middleman and pass the savings on to you. They go on sale a lot, which I why I have them. I use the quick clamps as one-handed clamps, kinda like spring clamps for when I cant quite get the spring clamps to reach, or similar. I saw this on a YouTube video a couple years ago. Hes thinking hell start with the slip-style F clampshe played around with mine with the clutches, and he agrees, the clutches arent for him. You really don't want to be using F clamps for this. 24 inch will do 24 in. I have used mine for many years at the schools I have had and they work there so in a home shop used once or twice a week they should last fine. I bought a couple a few weeks back and the quality is coming back up a bit. Giving a very funny, imaginative twist to the "Edward Scissor-hands" concept, Elmaduro. My approach is about getting the most good enough clamps for the money so you can get a good collection. 8 SEPTEMBER 2014 AT 6:20 PM On the otherhand, I use the HB type and have found them more than adequate once retrofitted. They excel at holding things for work while being themselves clamped to a surface with something like an f-clamp. I waited way too long into my woodworking career -- 25 years or so -- before I got to know how useful these babies are. Ive tried modifying them in various ways, but they have never been reliable. Get complete site access to video workshops, digital plans library, online archive, and more, plus the print magazine. So, when you make that project video, is it going to be "The 'Hard-Hatted', or the 'Hard-Headed' Woodworker"? A bunch of Irwin Quick Clamps? Look, I know Im gonna need clamps, and I could just come steal some of yours when I need em, but I dont wanna be waiting for them to arrive or whatever when Ive got a free weekend and all thats slowing me down is not having the right clamps., 2 each, Quick Clamps, in 12, 24, 36 inches.Four 4 hand spring clampsTwo 3/4 pipe clamp assemblies and 2 each of 4-and 6-foot lengths of pipeTwo 48 parallel clamps2 each, F-style deep-throated bar clamps, 12, 24, 36 inches, I didnt try to price it all out, but I figure weve gotta be getting close to that $300 mark with a list like that, and it seemed like a good list. This cookie is used by Google Analytics to understand user interaction with the website. My clamp of last resort, they reside (literally) under my bench. The cookie is created when the JavaScript library executes and there are no existing __utma cookies. It's just that simple! To fill out my clamp collection I went to Harbor Freight and bought a selection of aluminum bar clamps. But I can think of a couple scenarios wherein a 12 or so throat would be nice. The information collected might relate to you, your preferences or your device, and is mostly used to make the site work as you expect it to and to provide a more personalized web experience. For California consumers: more information about our privacy practices. Clamps are a lot like router bits, chisels, planes, and saw blades; what is right for one may not be right for another BUT, there is a baseline of items most folks use. I'd suggest this friend in need of a clamp starter selection look into HFT's Pittsburgh brand F-Style and Pipe clamps. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Tom just sat here reading through the comments and says hes now got a pretty good idea. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. I will add how many of one thing will you make? (I suggest waxing the shafts to allow easy glue removal - or put a strip of painter tape where glue squeeze out would get on the shaft.) I also have a bunch of spring clamps. I have the two of the HF heavy duty ratcheting clamps and they work very well. You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but if you do so, some parts of the site will not work. Stay away from the longer F clamps and the cheap quick grip type clamps. The clamps I gathered as I needed them are the ones I use the most. They are the only clamps I'm looking to add to my little old collection these days. Those awful wood screw clamps you have that I dont know how to use? Note: Specifications are approximate and subject to change. Another option, again pricier than the Pittsburgh clamps at HF: Dubuque aluminum bar clamps. The cookie is used to affinitize a client to an instance of an Azure Web App. For California consumers: more information about our privacy practices. I would only add that it is worth getting a variety to begin with. (I will never swear under oath that I have not used the 10 ton load.) The cheap ones do not work for me. The cookie is used to calculate visitor, session, campaign data and keep track of site usage for the site's analytics report. Interesting that you mention that right off the bat. For long lengths, pipe clamps are the most budget friendly. It has good stuff too, I bought a small table saw for cutting ceramic tiles for $45 years ago and surprisingly still working. I'll probably pickup some handscrews soon but not as much as clamps as work holding tools. For any difficulty using this site with a screen reader or because of a disability, please contact us at 1-800-444-3353 or cs@harborfreight.com. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Expensive, for sure. The main difference is the Harbor freight ones are blue, usually. Im getting back into woodworking, having a serious go at it this time, after a long lay-off from a little of this, a little of that a long time ago. Those things are heavy. We have invested millions of dollars in our own test labs and factories, so our tools will go toe-to-toe with the top professional brands. I like them. Since most new woodworkers start building casework with plywood not solid wood I would say you could skip the 24" parallel clamps and get 4 x 30 or 36" and 4 x 48" throw in 4 x 12" clamps of some type me I would do f-body because they can apply more pressure when needed than quick clamps but I wouldn't argue to strenuously if you wanted quick clamps. A 3/4" pipe clamp cost $15-17 a 48" piece of black pipe about $15 so a minimum of $30 ea. [Put the board to be planed edge down on your bench, clamp it from one end with the hand-screw laying flat on the bench and then use the second clamp to clamp the first one to your bench.] These cookies enable the website to provide enhanced functionality and personalization. I had a bunch of parallel clamps. Once you learn to use them properly they are indispensable. Pipe clamps. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you which amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or filling in forms. My only 'must-buy' are small quick-clamps. 60540 Expired: 12/31/19 - $8.99 Coupon Code: '15552462', ITC PITTSBURGH 48" ALUMINUM BAR CLAMP Lot No. So it breaks down to what you are building today. So first I would suggest he think long and hard about what he will be building as he learns. My list-topper is the Rocker "sure-foot" aluminum bar clamp. We have invested millions of dollars in our own test labs and factories, so our tools will go toe-to-toe with the top professional brands. I would have no use for longer versions, if you have parallel and bar clamps. Probably a couple dozen 12" UniKlamps alone. Get instant access to over 100 digital plans available only to UNLIMITED members. I kept doing this until I stopped running out during glue ups. I have a bunch of HF 'F' clamps. Like router bits, buying a set without actually knowing how you might use them often results in things bought but, not used. I bought HF parallel clamps when they still had them and they work fine. Its one of the reasons I really like the one-handed clamps. I like the Bessy with the feet. It will probably be necessary to drill the moving clamp face to attach the block with a screw or two. I tend to get 12-18 inch, they are my go to for small stuff. To the OP, if your friend is a patient person, camelcamelcamel will let you know about sales on Amazon. Parallel clamps? However you may visit Cookie Settings to provide a controlled consent. Almost all of my clamps are stored in between the joists, or, in the case of quick clamps, clamped to the joists themselves. Or giving short shrift to? Compare our price of $15.99 to IRWIN at $29.99 (model number: 1855412). Don't get scammed by websites pretending to be Harbor Freight. I use them all the time. bar clamp is constructed of sturdy aluminum for light weight and stability. Thanks for the tip on Taylor Toolwork. It is a way to take you clamp money and spread it out a bit further. But theres gotta be some sort of good starting point. The F clamps I use, Ill admit, are mostly the Besseys with the clutches; I dont like em, but Ive got em, and they work, though I dont have any with a 12 or more throat, and I wish I did. Too much of? I haven't owned a spring clamp in decades but have come to see value in quick acting clamps sold by Armor, they self adjust and can put a pretty good amount of clamping pressure on if you can squeeze them one handed. I set a target price, forgot about it, got an email notification, and bought them on sale. The first clamps i got from hf were pretty good then paul happened and they started to make em faster and looser (I picked up a pair of 12 Jorgensen wooden screw clamps for him, too. It does make a huge difference! Combine those with some cauls and I can do a lot. Then insert a section of hardwood in the channel to stiffen up the bar. Welcome! I'm curious, GDB, what, exactly, went wrong with your HFT pipe clamp(s)? Start your 14-day FREE trial - and get building! | Customer Service | Download the Harbor Freight App | Harbor Freight Newsroom| Security & Privacy | Do Not Sell My Personal Information | Terms & Conditions | CA Transparency in Supply Chains Act | Supplier Code of Conduct | Jobs at Harbor Freight, Copyright 2022 Harbor Freight Tools | 26677 Agoura Road | Calabasas, CA 91302 | 1-800-444-3353. I have given up on these clamps. To receive the coupon prices online, the coupon code(s) must be entered into your shopping cart. The cookies store information anonymously and assign a randomly generated number to identify unique visitors. https://www.bessey.de/en-US/BESSEY-Tools-North-America/Products/Clamping-Tools/K-Body-Parallel-and-case-clamps. Say Ive got $300 to spend on clamps, to prime the pump, so to speak. No other meaning of "Compare to" should be implied. If you do much case work parallel clamps are great IMHO. Start your 14-day FREE trial - and get building. The parallel clamps work great for this kind of work. 10/22/2019 - $14.49, ITC PITTSBURGH 48" ALUMINUM BAR CLAMP Lot No. Parallel clamps are my favorite, it's interesting to see in this post that many people love them, so not-so-much. There is just too much play in the head. Foam insulation in a can is another good option for stabilizing hollow objects but without much weight. It does not store any personal data. Square cast-aluminum bar gives you plenty of stability for edge gluing, Quick adjustments approximately every inch. And we can sell them for a fraction of the price because we cut out the middleman and pass the savings on to you.