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Buying C-Clamps

Buying Guides - Hand Tools

The C-clamp is a type of a clamp that is used to hold a wood or metal work piece. It is also called the G-clamp. Basically, this clamp derived its name from the C shaped frame and is commonly used in carpentry and welding. Materials used to make C-Clamps are steel or cast iron. However, there are smaller C-clamps made of pot metal. Usually, the top of the “C” is a small flat edge. A threaded aperture at the bottom of the tool has a large threaded screw passing firmly through it. One of the ends of the screw has a flat edge that is similar in size to the top frame. A small metal bar at the other end is perpendicular to the screw. This metal bar is used to gain leverage when the clamp is tightened. When the clamp is not in use, and is completely closed, the ends of the clamp come in contact with each other. The wood piece or metal piece is held between these two flat ends.

Working and features of a C-clamp:

The screw of the clamp is turned until a desired state is reached. The clamp is tightened until the object is secured between the two ends of the frame. When the object held between the ends needs to be released, on the other end, the tool is loosened with the application of a sufficient amount of force. This is an extremely useful tool in woodworking. However, there needs to be special care taken while working with softer and more delicate wood. If the clamp is tightened more than required it can cause dents and damage the surface of the work piece. This is often avoided by placing two scrap wood pieces on each end of the clamp frame with the item to be clamped kept in between. Therefore, if there is any damage caused by the clamping, it will be borne by scrap wood.
Another common use of C-clamp is in welding. Two characteristics, heavy duty metal body and the curved shape, make it ideal for holding metal pieces that need to be welded.
The distance between the screw and the middle of the C frame is called the throat. The ends have swivel pads that prevent corrosion. The size of the clamp is measured by its jaw capacity. Most of the clamps have the jaw capacity varying from around 2” to 10”.

What to look for in a C-Clamp?

According to the type of project, the user should select the right size of clamp and not a small clamp that would be overloaded. The clamps are designed for temporary holding, thus, should be removed as soon as the job is done. One should look for a clamp that has a smoother acme threading. It is important to consider the jaw capacity and depth of throat while selecting a C-clamp. The throat distance of the C-clamp ranges from ¾” to 14”. Also, one has an option between a sliding cross-pin handle and a wing nut that is used to tighten the screw. The ergonomic design of the handle should also be considered while selecting a C-clamp. The body of the clamp should be durable and it is important to check strength to weight ratio of the clamp. A higher ratio is preferable. Some reputed manufacturers of C- clamps include Grip, Bessey, Irwin, and Performance.