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 pipe clamp is similar to the Jorgensen model, but it has a much larger base, which keeps the clamp upright and far enough above a workbench to allow for ample room to turn the screw crank. Another unique feature is the small lip on the underside of the base, which makes the clamp easy to hang and store on a simple shopmade rack.

August 2003 review by Tom Begnal:
Pipe clamps haven’t changed noticeably in the almost 30 years since I bought my first pair. I still have those Watergate-era Pony-brand clamps, and they work just as well as on the day I bought them.

Recently, however, Rockler introduced a version of this clamping standard in the 3/4-in. size. Called the Sure-Foot, it’s a dead ringer for a Pony clamp (paint color excepted) but with one obvious difference. On the Sure-Foot, the head and foot are taller and wider than those of a typical pipe clamp. The height positions the crank handle so that it clears the benchtop with more than an inch to spare, allowing you to turn the crank with ease. And the additional width adds stability, so the clamp is pretty much tip-proof.

The extra witdth and height did indeed simplify the clamping procedure. I had just one complaint. Compared with the other pipe clamps I’ve used, the Sure-Foot clamps required a bit of extra effort to squeeze the clutch plates. I’d prefer the clutch to respond to a little lighter touch.

Everything considered, though, the Sure-Foot clamp looks to be a simple, effective improvement to the venerable pipe clamp, and I plan to add a few more to my collection.

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