When considering tools used for woodworking, you will find that clamps are one of the most useful tools quick die clamp to have. The purpose for these tools are to hold the wood in position it needs to be in while the glue dries or while detailing the work. No longer do we find a basic set of tools due to the new ideas and creations with the woodworker in mind. The ranges of these tools are so plentiful that the beginner can get confused on what types of clamps are best to be used. Below is a list of the most common and helpful types:
C-Clamp (also known as G-Clamp) - This has a C-shaped frame. It has a large threaded screw which holds the our tool in place and generally is made from cast iron or steel. Because the particular tool is made from steel, it is easy to mar the wood surfaces which should be taken into consideration. To avoid this, simply place a small piece of scrap wood in between the tool and wood to protect the surface.
Bar Clamp (also known as F-Clamp) - Similar to the C-Clamp, the Bar Clamp has a wider opening which consists of a flat metal bar. Like the C-Clamp, this too is made from steel or cast iron. This particular tool has been proven less likely to mar the surfaces of the wood which is why is preferred over the C-Clamp.
Pipe Clamp - When gluing wood, the Pipe Clamp is the most commonly used. The Pipe Clamp is simply a mechanism and a long steel pipe. The capacity of the tool is determined by the length of the steel pipe. This particular tool is like the Bar Clamp, but less expensive. The tool is also more flexible and can used in more situation that the Bar Clamp can.
One-Handed Clamp (also known as a Quick-Release Clamp) - This tool is a newer variation involving the pipe and bar clamp. It includes a trigger mechanism allowing the tool to be opened and closed using only one hand.
Spring Clamp - Spring Clamps are what you typically find on jumper cables. This tool is operated by squeezing the handles together which cause this item to open and close. This tool can be used for a massive variety of project and offers a lot of pressure. Use care and a slight amount of caution when using this item so damage is not done to the surface.
Hand-Screw Clamp - This is classic woodworking clamp and has two pieces of wood which are connected by two threaded screws. You will use for this Clamp when working with irregular shaped objects because the jaws can be offset or angled.
Miter Clamp - This Clamp is more complex and is designed to hold miters together while also leaving the joints exposed for gluing, nailing or dowelling.
Band Clamp (also known as Web Clamp) - This clamp has a band and clamping device. It lets pressure be applied from many different directions at the same time. Examples include clamping all sides of a box at once. You may find it useful to know that in the United Kingdom and Australia, clamps for woodworking often get referred as "cramps," so don't be confused when you notice this term as opposed to clamps.