Toolmakers Clamps, making and using,

[Metaler]

This week my latest video introduces the Toolmaker's Clamp and explains how they should be used. Closing the clamps onto a workpiece is a more critical task than with say using a G clamp, and can be dangerous if inadequately secured, especially when used on a milling or drilling machine. The method for closing them is explained on the video.

The video also introduces the single sided clamp where both closing screws are on the same side. These are not easily available (or at all now) commercially, so they need to be made in the home workshop. The do though have uses where the common type would not be suitable.

These links about toolmakers clamps may also be of interest.

To my "using" page .Toolmakers Clamps 1
and to my "making" page ToolmakersClamps, making. Conventional and Single sided. 1

Harold Hall

[Toolmaker51]

Mr. Hall's content is thorough and instructive as usual.
Those with adjustment both projecting from same side are new to me. I avoid Toolmaker Clamps sometimes because the adjusters obstruct what I wish to access. Now, I smell an order for oil or water hardening bar stock with breakfast tomorrow morning.
I'd definitely tend towards fine threads proportional to clamp size, over 'speed' of coarse pitches. Finesse trumps brute usage again.
Remember. fine pitches represent a less steep incline, that helix we call threads, with an increase in power at same torque.
I've used Toolmakers Parallel Clamps as far back as I can recall. Despite the wrench pin 'tommy bar' hole, to attain requirement of that much pressure. There is tremendous leverage potential and snapped my very first one of a pair long ago. Likely developed a better feel for things since, but still prefer additional or larger size instead. They are incredibly effective, just as woodworkers use larger variety for same reason.

[Metaler]

Thanks "Toolmaker" for your comments about my work, much appreciated.

I only knew of one company who made the single sided clamps also, many other small tools. Their work was of a very high standard but as a result, very expensive. They were a very small company in the UK but they closed a few months back and I am not sure if anyone has taken over the company.

Harold

[DIYer]

Thanks Metaler! We've added your Toolmaker's Clamps to our Clamps category,
as well as to your builder page: Metaler's Homemade Tools. Your receipt:

Toolmaker's Clamps by Metaler

tags: clamp

[Frank S]

I think many machinist have at one time or another made a pair of toolmakers clamps. I think that I might have at least 1 surviving pair that I must have made because I know I have never bought any. My Grandpa always made his own wood workers version of them. One of my cousins probably still have those.
I like the one sided ones and might even one day modify mine or possibly make a new pair just because, or if I suddenly find that I have nothing else to do.