Quite often, when performing construction work, it becomes necessary to tightly fix any part on a plane, or to press two materials together. Good clamps in 2020 allow you to cope with this task. With such a tool, the foreman can facilitate a number of different jobs. Attachments can be classified by operating principle, speed, shape, and object depth and width.
Many are interested in which clamps are better and what to pay attention to. To do this, it is recommended to study our top rating of the best models. It includes a variety of types of such products. Having considered the most popular options, you can easily choose the one that suits you.
First of all, we propose to consider the popular models that are popular among many users. After that, the tips will be considered, following them you can easily determine which ones are better and choose the right one for yourself.
All models are divided into 6 categories. They can be G-shaped, F-shaped, angular, quick-clamping, pipe and spring. In each category, several options can be distinguished.
G-shaped
This type of clamps has this name due to the fact that its shape resembles the letter G. Such products are perfect for joinery types of work. Namely for tight fixation of thick beams and similar materials. Depending on the model, the G-clamp can wrap around wood and metal objects.
The upper part of the tool always remains stationary. The fixation takes place with the help of the lower part, where the long shaft moves along the thread, reducing the free space, thereby fixing the object.
FIT 59201 G 25 mm
To begin with, consider the G-shaped model with the uncomplicated name FIT 59201 G 25mm. This option is great for effectively fixing small metal plates to a horizontal surface. This is necessary for welding or drilling work. As the name implies, the clamping width is 25 mm here.
The dimensions of the tool are 65 by 35 by 8 centimeters. This is a significant advantage as it can even fit in your pocket. The material itself is covered with a special material that protects the metal from corrosion for a long period.
Pros:
- The body is made of tool steel;
- Low cost from 100 rubles;
- Thanks to the fine thread, the user is able to more carefully regulate the pressing force of the object;
- The so-called stiffening ribs are provided on the body, which increase the strength of the structure;
- Extremely small weight - only 60 grams.
Minuses:
- There is no special penny on the clamping screw. Because of this, at the end of the clamping procedure, the axis may move. This will leave traces on the material itself;
- Part too thin to rotate the screw. It is easy to bend it accidentally when using the tool.
Master Matrix 20604 100x100x190 mm
The next G-shaped model is Master Matrix 20604. Its name immediately describes the dimensions, namely 100 x 100 x 190 mm.It is ideal for carpentry work, namely for tight fixation of thick beams to the surface. The frame depth is 10 centimeters. The screw can be retracted the same distance.
Special plastic overlays are provided on the end of the screw and frame. They avoid a situation where the axis moves and leaves marks on the material.
Pros:
- Long service life according to the manufacturer's statements;
- Due to the coarse thread, the screw does not slip;
- Plastic overlays at the end;
- Powder coating of the tool;
- The body is 100 percent steel;
- Low weight - 900 grams. This increases the mobility of the tool and allows it to be transported comfortably.
Minuses:
- High cost relative to analogues. About 500-600 rubles;
- Plastic overlays are not securely attached to the structure. In this regard, they often fall off and can be lost.
F-shaped
The next category is F-shaped models. They are excellent for operational speed conditions and are used to fix large objects. The most important factor when choosing is the material from which the rail is made, as well as its height.
FIT 59154 F 50 × 300 mm
Most users think this is the best F-clamp model. It allows you to press the material as quickly as possible without sacrificing efficiency. The rail height is 300 mm. This is quite enough for fixing large parts.
Fast fixing is carried out due to the presence of an additional cast metal step. Thus, the object will be pressed down already at the stage of jawing.
Pros:
- Quite a massive handle that allows you to grip comfortably;
- Light weight up to 0.5 kg;
- The handle has a rubberized surface;
- On the rib side of the rack, fine teeth are implemented to increase reliability;
- Tool steel is used as the main material in production;
- The penny rotates separately from the whole structure;
- Plastic overlays are provided in order not to damage the pressed object;
- The clamping depth is 5 cm.
Minuses:
- Relatively high cost in the range of 400-500 rubles.
TOPEX 250mm 12A102
This model is almost identical to the previous one, however, it is made of different materials, and also has a shallower grip depth. A steel rail is provided here, which allows you to use the tool for a long time without breakdowns.
The key bar has special notches that increase the efficiency of the device. They do not allow the screw to move. As in the case with the previous options, the developers have provided plastic overlays that prevent damage to the material.
Pros:
- The capture depth is 5 cm;
- Special aluminum heels are provided under the pads;
- The cost varies within 200 rubles;
- The maximum stroke is 25 cm. This allows you to clamp at once 5 beams 5 cm thick in a row;
- There is no slippage;
- Weight 400 grams;
- Comfortable thick rubber grip.
Minuses:
- The plastic pads are not securely attached. They can fall off and get lost;
- If the tool is tightened firmly, the steel strip may bend. However, it is quite easy to return it to its original position.
Spring models
It's time to consider designs that are based on a spring type of fixation. These tools do not require a screw to be twisted, and they also clamp objects much more effectively. However, there is still a screw, but not as the main structural element. It is worth noting the high speed of fixation. You can do this in just a second.
Stankoimport CS-21.04.10 250mm
In this category, we will consider only one model, since it is the most popular and high-quality one according to users. As stated by the manufacturer itself, this option is great for welders. There is no plastic here at all, and all parts are made of steel.Sponges are diluted according to the same principle as with all known pliers.
A special spring is built inside, which ensures the operation of the tool. On the end face of one handle there is a screw that allows you to adjust the compression depth.
Pros:
- Metal teeth on compression jaws;
- The grip width is 3.5 cm, which is sufficient for most welding jobs;
- There is no plastic. All parts are metal;
- The length of the tool is 25 cm. It is compact and can be carried in a work case;
- The part is held as securely as possible. In this case, the user does not need to make much effort;
- Convenient handles for a comfortable grip.
Minuses:
- All fixtures on the device are riveted, not bolted. Therefore, if the tool breaks, then it will not be so easy to disassemble for repair;
- Relatively high cost in the region of 500 rubles.
Corner clamps
Next in line is the category intended for narrowly focused work. An angle clamp may be needed if it is necessary to reduce corners on any structure. The general principle of this design involves two separate modules, each of which acts on its own plane, shifting the part at an angle.
FIT 59275 72 mm
Many experts consider this to be the best clamp for versatile jobs. It allows you to work comfortably both with wood and metal, and even with glass. As in the previous case, all parts are made of steel. There are no plastic parts here. This means that you can use the tool to perform welding.
If desired, you can securely fix the tool to the plane. This is done using special holes. Thus, the user prevents the risk of the structure falling along with the massive object.
Pros:
- The body is made of aluminum;
- Low cost up to 250 rubles;
- Low weight - 150 grams;
- The impressive clamping width allows you to work with thick beams and massive metal objects;
- Powder coating;
- You can keep two parts in the same plane;
- The screws are made of stainless steel;
- Small size for increased mobility. Easy to transport. Dimensions are 24 x 10 x 2 centimeters.
Minuses:
- There is a slight backlash on the lips;
- Too thin and unreliable handles for screw rotation. Uncomfortable and can bend quickly;
- Poor retaining ring;
- The case is too thin.
Best BAHCO QCB-900 Quick Clamp
The next step is an excellent tool that allows you to reliably fix even a huge object in 1 second. Clamping occurs by pulling the trigger. The user doesn't even need to make much effort. This model is manufactured in Switzerland and therefore has excellent quality, reliability and efficiency.
The handle has a rubber surface, which allows you to comfortably grip it and pull the trigger. There are special pads on the jaws that increase the pressure area, thereby increasing its effectiveness. The size can be quickly changed with a special button.
Pros:
- Very comfortable grip;
- Easy to clamp. It is enough just to pull the trigger;
- Reliable assembly from quality parts;
- The trigger is easily pressed;
- The clamping depth is almost 10 centimeters;
- Clamp width - 90 cm. This is the largest indicator;
- The rail has a thick structure and is made of durable metal. This prevents the possibility of bending;
- The trigger is stretched over the entire handle. This improves comfort and prevents finger pinching;
- It is possible to work with wood as the overlays are provided
Minuses:
- Extremely high cost relative to other models. You can reach 2 thousand rubles;
- After a long period of use, rust may appear if the device gets wet;
- Large dimensions. Difficult to transport;
- Large mass.
Pipe clamp Enkor 20079 3/4 "
It remains to consider only the pipe version of the clamp.They are used to handle pipes that need to be pulled together quickly. The design consists of two main modules. One part is motionless and consists of several rings. They must be put on the pipe and fixed tightly. After that, the wizard works with the second module, which is needed for tightening.
Model Enkor 20079 is ideal for gluing panels and other wooden structures. Most often this model is used by welders and carpenters. The screw travel is 7 centimeters.
Pros:
- Wide thread pitch;
- Powder coating against corrosion;
- You can choose the length of the rail yourself;
- No plastic parts. Consists of metal.
Minuses:
- Price tag from 700 rubles;
- Can only be used with 3/4 pipe diameter;
- The pipe must be purchased separately from the clamp.
Tool recommendations
If you are not sure which model is most suitable, then we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the list of aspects that you need to pay attention to first. It looks like this:
- Clamping method. This is a fundamental factor that determines the types of work in which the use of this tool is allowed. They can be screw, spring, quick-clamping, pipe and so on. It is recommended that you pay attention to options that allow you to quickly clamp the material with one hand.
- Clamping power. Depending on the model, it can vary from 20 kilograms to a ton. The required indicator depends on what material the user plans to work with. For example, metal structures require an increased clamping force.
- Mass and material used in production. Naturally, the clamp must have good strength for a strong grip. Moreover, it must have a small mass. If you use, for example, cast iron, which is considered one of the strongest metals, then the weight of the product will dramatically increase and mobility will be lost. Therefore, most of the models are made of aluminum and synthetic materials. Thus, the ideal balance of strength and lightness is achieved.
- Corrosion protection. Many people think that this is an unimportant aspect, but it is recommended to pay attention to it. Not everyone wants to buy a new tool on a regular basis. Therefore, you need to buy a model that will not corrode for a long period. The best option is powder coating.
- Functionality. Today in stores you can see a huge number of different clamps. They can be used not only for classical fixation of the material, but also have other options. For example, used as a spacer.
- Availability of additional accessories. The more practical accessories provided on the instrument, the higher its functionality and comfort during use.