Bar Clamp

Bar Clamps FAQ

Are bar clamps better than pipe clamps?

Whether a bar clamp or pipe clamp is better all comes down to the job you're working on.

Pipe clamps are longer and adjustable, consisting of two separate clamps. These types of clamps provide even pressure and loads of strength while accommodating a wide range of objects. Pipe clamps are often used by carpenters to hold wood together when making furniture or by plumbers when fastening or fixing pipes to provide support. Keep in mind also that pipe clamps will need to be assembled by hand, though they do have a higher capacity to hold as long a pipe as you need.

Bar clamps are shorter than pipe clamps, featuring a flat, rigid bar with two grips connected by a screw mechanism and are commonly used in woodworking, metal work and auto repair. Lightweight and compact, these clamps allow for quick and easy adjustments and are stronger than pipe clamps, with rubber teeth for a more secure hold. And although bar clamps can be limited in length, this makes them great for working in tight spaces.

What is the most useful bar clamp size?

The most useful bar clamp size depends on the type of job that you're trying to tackle.

For example, if you're a furniture or cabinet maker and need to clamp some 914 mm/36 inch panels, find a clamp with a bar length longer than that.

Spread capacity is the maximum width that can be clamped. If you regularly work with longer pieces, then you'll need longer clamps. Throat depth is also important, measuring the distance between the jaws and the body of the clamp itself. Like spread capacity, the larger the depth of your clamp, the more materials you can accommodate, especially when it comes to bigger jobs.

Clamping pressure is essential when choosing a quality clamp bar. It should have a tight, firm grip to ensure materials, no matter how thick or thin, are held securely in place. You should also look for a bar clamp with protective pads on the jaws to avoid scratching your work.

What’s the difference between a bar clamp and a parallel clamp?

Bar clamps are longer and more lightweight compared to parallel clamps, catering to a variety of jobs. A bar clamp has two jaws (one fixed, one moveable) connected by a bar. Larger and heavier than a hand clamp, this type of clamp is often used for general jobs and larger projects, able to be adjusted quickly and easily.

Parallel clamps come with two handles and jaws designed to grip wood more tightly, making it easier to apply more pressure. A parallel clamp has a larger clamping surface than a bar clamp, with two jaws designed to distribute pressure evenly and for more accurate alignment.