When I first used the new parallel-jaw clamp from Irwin, I was surprised at how good the handle felt in my hands. The handle has an oval shape, and the grip feels like soft rubber, making it easier to grip and crank than other parallel clamps.

New parallel clamps. Irwin’s parallel-jaw clamps have handles with a slip-free grip.

No matter how much I tightened the clamps, the cold-formed steel bar refused to deflect. This might be because the clamps measured an average force of 575 lb. when Fine Woodworking tested them, about 15% less than Bessey’s 675-lb. average.

The Irwin clamps have a removable plastic foot that helps level the clamp on your benchtop. Mounted on a cotter-pin assembly, the foot can be adjusted down the bar-which comes in handy when your clamp is longer than your assembly table-or removed completely.

With the foot removed, you can flip the clamp head and convert the clamp into a spreader, which is invaluable for safely disassembling joinery.

Expect to pay about $35 for the 24-in. clamp, $40 for the 48-in. version. Go to www.irwin.com for more information.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Veritas Micro-Adjust Wheel Marking Gauge

The adjuster runs through the beam from a small knob at the back end right to the cutting wheel, which moves in and out as you turn the knob. This arrangement works well but makes adjustments a two-handed operation, requiring a little more effort.

Buy at Lee Valley

Starrett 4" Double Square

Head is easy to remove, replace, and lock down; narrowest blade, at 5⁄8 in., made it easier to fit into tight places; hard to read under bright lights.

Buy at Woodcraft Buy at Amazon

Veritas Precision Square

This precision square is incredibly versatile, from checking squareness to dialing in machine setups.

Buy at Lee Valley