In this part of our tool reviews series we asked our demonstration team to test out the range of Irwin Quick Grip Clamps to find out how useful a selection of these would be in a home improver’s tool kit. We wanted to see how easy these clamps are to operate in a real world situation and also look at their build quality.
Using the Irwin Quick Grip Quick Release Clamps
We used Irwin’s own demonstrator to review the clamps under our supervision. We tested the clamps in a real-life situation by clamping a timber to a workbench and using the clamp to make sure the timber stayed stock-still while we sawed into it with (coincidentally, an Irwin Jack saw). This clamp would be ideal for carrying out any cutting and sawing of timber as shown on this project http://www.diydoctor.org.uk/projects/Cuttingtimber.htm
The clamps jaws are adjustable for clamping surface which are not square to each other and the jaws reverse to allow the clamp to be used as a spreader as well as a clamp. A really useful feature for (for example) sliding tight fitting shelves into a shelf unit.
The clamp was easily applied with a couple of squeezes and unlike many other clamps there was no over squeezing to ensure the ratchet clicked into place. The timber was solidly help against the worktop and sawing was safe and effortless as a result.
Releasing the clamp was beautifully easy with a soft press on the release trigger it was free. It didn’t stick and was off in less than a second. A great tool for the carpentry or metalwork workshop. This really is a well built, strong clamp which will out perform many clamps on the market. Along with even stronger clamps, It can be bought from http://www.diydoctor.org.uk/DIY-superstore/quick-change-bar-clamp-150mm-6-in.html