Carpenters – What quick clamps?

As per title.

I used Gatorclamps for about to years which were ‘ ok ‘, better than any i’d used before but I was never impressed with their holding power…they just held. Then gradually they lost power to hold satisfactory although they still hold. I was on a job last year where I got fed up with the Gators and needed a set quick & the local clamp shop only had Irwins which tbh aren’t that much better than the used Gators.
So what beauties are you using????

I’m no carpenter although I do use my clamps a lot.
I’ve had Quick-grip clamps for about 12 years now and they still function as new.

My dad has those and Im afraid I dont like them. Not nearly as easy for one-handed use as the wolfcraft ones I own. You can widen the jaws with one hand by pulling the little trigger repeatedly.

reversible, and come in a range of sizes.

Quick grips here too. I’m generally making boxes/cabinets from sheet and just need things held while fixing – they’re fine for me for that. If you need something stronger – Blessey, they seem good, though youre limited with a quick clamp for ultimate clamping strength.
Perhaps you need a tradition cramp with a screw?

That one-handed opening function a la Wolfcraft seems to be something I’ve missed on other clamps. I’m liking the Bessey kliklamp[/url]
I had some years back but can’t remember what they’re like.

Bahco seem to have the sort of thing I’m looking for Here

but are probably gonna be around the £60 each.

A clamp that doesn’t have an explosive release would be good too.

So you need metal over plastic?
Those Bahco ones seem to come in Good/Better/Superior 🙂

Edit: it also looks like the Superior ones only come in 300mm – is that enough?

300mm would be enough. They would be used for general clamping of sheet material when cutting with circular saw, clamping guides, fences, posts, sleepers, doors etc. When sawing, routing, chiseling nailing, screwing etc.

And sods law you buy 300mm you’re gonna need 450.

I’ve broken many, so buying cheap ain’t too good…

I bought these at B&Q as I needed a pair ASAP – solid and strong.

http://www.diy.com/nav/fix/handtools-storage-workwear/handtools/clamps/B-and-Q-600mm-Heavy-Duty-Clamp-and-Spreader-11247659

If you’re after something along the lines of a 6″ G-cramp but for one handed operation, Solo quick cramps are about the best quality (that’s a relative interpretation of the word ‘quality’ mind you). They do up and release like a skeleton gun.

I’ve used the solo clamps for years, good one handed use with strong clamp if you need to clamp relatively small items together as they only open to about 160mm.