Graphical Construction Glossary >> Tools. >> Hand Tools >> F Clamps

F Clamps

Carpentry clamps in the shape of an "F", also known as bar clamps and hand clamps.

Old friends, I wouldn't be without them. A couple of Bessey and an old Dawn.

The clamps above have seen an awful lot of work, but unlike their owner they are still as good as new, in terms of doing the job they were bought for.

I have said before that you can never have enough clamps and that is true. The temptation when need need half a dozen new clamps is to cut costs and buy cheap ones. Years ago I did just that and a cheap clamp gave way one time and dropped a temporary steel brace onto my shoulder. No real damage done but it could have been very serious. That's when I bit the bullet and bought eight of the big Bessey clamps shown above. I have never regretted it.

Jorgensen 3700 bar clamps from Rockler.

I call these clamps "F" clamps because I have been calling them that for the last forty years. Rockler calls them bar clamps. Unlike the all steel ones above, these are well suited for bench work and outside carpentry work.

If you live in the US and you like the look of these Jorgensens that have a good reputation for quality find out more on the Rockler site page.

Bessey TG Professional Series Bar Clamps

• F Clamps:-Back to top
  

If you didn't find exactly what you are looking for try this search tool that will search the site and the web.

"What can be added to the happiness of a man who is in health, out of debt, and has a clear conscience?
Adam Smith 1723-1790

"When we build, let us think that we build for ever."John Ruskin 1819-1900