Clamps and Vices: Holding Work Securely

"You can never have too many clamps" is a workshop truism. Here's a guide to the clamps and vices that actually earn their keep.

Clamp Types

F-Clamps (Bar Clamps)

The workhorse clamp. Adjustable jaw on a steel bar. Various sizes from 150mm to 1200mm+. Essential for:

• Glue-ups
• Holding work to bench
• Clamping assemblies

Buy multiple sizes. You'll use them constantly.

G-Clamps (C-Clamps)

Classic design. Strong clamping force in a compact package. Good for:

• Metalwork
• Heavy clamping force needed
• Smaller workpieces

Deep-throat versions reach further from edges.

Quick-Release Clamps

One-handed operation. Faster than traditional clamps but usually less clamping force. Ideal for:

• Temporary holding
• Positioning work before stronger clamps
• Lighter clamping needs

Pipe Clamps

Clamp heads that fit standard pipe. Extremely long capacity at low cost - just buy longer pipe. Perfect for gluing large panels.

Spring Clamps

Quick to apply, light pressure. Good for holding things temporarily, light materials, and awkward positions.

Corner Clamps

Hold pieces at right angles. Essential for frame assembly and box making.

Band Clamps

Wrap around irregular shapes. Good for clamping frames, round objects, and multi-sided assemblies.

Vices

Bench Vice

Bolted to the workbench. The anchor of any workshop. Consider:

• Jaw width (100-150mm suits most work)
• Maximum opening
• Swivel base (useful for positioning)
• Pipe jaws (if you work with pipe)

Woodworking Vice

Flush-mounted to bench edge. Soft jaws don't mark wood. Essential for hand tool woodworking.

Portable Vices

Clamp to any surface. Less rigid than permanent vices but useful for site work.

Drill Press Vice

Holds small work for drilling. Low profile to fit under drill chuck.

Browse our clamps and magnets collection and vices.

How Many Clamps?

The answer is always "more." A realistic starting point:

• 4x F-clamps in medium size (300mm)
• 2x F-clamps in long size (600mm+)
• 2x G-clamps
• 4x quick-release clamps
• Various spring clamps
• One good bench vice

Then add as projects demand. You'll know what you need when you don't have it.

Quality Considerations

• Bars that don't flex under load
• Smooth-operating screws
• Handles that don't hurt your hands
• Jaws that meet squarely

Cheap clamps slip, flex, and frustrate. Mid-range options from known brands work well for most users.

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