For small and odd jobs

Kind of like the last kid called for sides in PE class, these clamps don’t take center stage, but often surprise you with their usefulness.

Spring clamps ($1–$8)

These apply a fixed amount of light pressure concentrated at the pads at the tips of their jaws. A squeeze opens them for positioning. Spring strength varies among types, sizes, and manufacturers, so give them a test squeeze to evaluate clamping pressure before buying. Use one to secure a stopblock to a fence [Photo J], hold a protective paper covering to your bench, or keep a ruler in position while you make marks along it.

Our recommendation: No need to overdo these; two each in 2", 4", and 6" will take care of most jobs.

Handscrews ($8–$25)

The deep reach and the ability to cant the jaws out of parallel make handscrews a valuable part of a clamp collection. Because the dual screws turn independently, you can twist just one, using the other as a fulcrum to multiply pressure at the ends of the clamp. And you can grip items in either end [Photo K]. The wood jaws are less likely to mar workpieces, and you can easily modify them to hold non-square items [Photo L].

Our recommendation: Get one each in 6", 8", and 12" sizes.

Organize a growing clamp collection.

Tip! A light coat of wax on the jaws prevents glue from adhering. K To machine small or odd-shaped workpieces, grip them in a handscrew. The flat jaw sides ride smoothly on a tabletop, and the wood jaws won’t damage cutters.

J A spring clamp temporarily holds a stopblock in place on this simple jig, and allows for quick and easy adjustments to its position.

L Secure a handscrew to a flat surface, lying down or standing on end, to create a vise. Notch or shape the wood jaws to hold cylinders or other items without parallel faces.