Rockler - Sure-Foot Aluminum Bar Clamp
A wide foot aids in large-panel glue-ups
The bar clamp, which comes in pipe, parallel jaw, aluminum bar, and steel bar versions, is used in almost every facet of cabinetmaking, and the right clamp can make the difference between success and failure. So I tested the 48-in. size of a representative sample of clamps to measure the deflection in both the bar and the jaws when applying various levels of force. I also used a set of four of each type of clamp to assemble a simple MDF carcase (joined with biscuits) and a large poplar panel, looking at ease of use and the resulting flatness and squareness of the finished product. The Rockler aluminum bar clamp uses an extrusion almost identical to the Universal model’s except that the notches are spaced farther apart. Both the head and tail assemblies on the Rockler feature large, stable bases on the workbench. Also, the head assembly features a large, convenient crank handle. A 48-in. extension kit is available for $19.
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Comments
This comment is 17 years later, but I've had problems with this clamp deforming permanently when applying the kinds of pressures I use for a thick tabletop. I've been trying to find the clamping pressure limits from Rockler and elsewhere with no success. Won't be using for anything but light duty for now.
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