Best Bar Clamps of 2025
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Bar clamps are essential tools for any woodworking project. They are used to firmly hold pieces of wood together while glue dries, ensuring a tight and secure bond. These clamps consist of a long metal bar with a sliding jaw that can be adjusted to fit the size of the materials being clamped. The bar is tightened using a screw mechanism, which applies pressure evenly across the entire length of the clamp. Bar clamps come in a variety of sizes and styles, making them versatile for a range of projects. They are a must-have for any DIY enthusiast or professional woodworker.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
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Top 10 Bar Clamps
Amazon Basics 6-Piece Trigger Clamp Set
The Amazon Basics 6-Piece Trigger Clamp Set includes 2 pieces of 4-inch clamps and 4 pieces of 6-inch clamps, which are made of durable nylon with hardened-steel bars that resist bending. The 4-inch clamp gives 22 pounds of clamping force while the 6-inch clamp gives 100 pounds of clamping force. With non-marring pads and a one-handed trigger, it can protect surfaces from damage and provide an instant clamp release, making it ideal for clamping smaller pieces and working in confined spaces.
WORKPRO Woodworking Bar Clamps, 6-Pack One-Handed Clamp/Spreader
The WORKPRO Bar Clamps for Woodworking is a perfect set that consists of four 6-inch and two 12-inch clamps. The clamps are made of reinforced nylon body and high-quality hardened steel bars that provide great impact resistance. The unique quick-change button design allows the f clamp to be a spreader as well. The non-marring removable and replaceable pads feature flexible material and non-slip texture, which enhances the overall clamping force. The ergonomically-designed handle and dipping plastic on the quick-release latch are both for customers' comfort.
IRWIN QUICK-GRIP Bar Clamp, One-Handed, Mini, 6-Pack
This IRWIN QUICK-GRIP Bar Clamp is perfect for clamping smaller workpieces and working in confined areas. With up to 140 lbs. of clamping force, it has non-marring pads that grip firmly and protect work, and can easily convert to a spreader. Plus, it features a one-handed quick-release trigger which makes it easy to use with one hand.
WEN 36-Inch Steel Bar Clamps with Micro-Adjustment Handle, Two Pack
The WEN 36-Inch Steel Bar Clamps with Micro-Adjustment Handle, Two Pack is a versatile, quick-adjust clamp that provides a clamping force of over 1200 pounds across your workpiece. With a 36-inch steel rail and a 2.5-inch throat, the clamp is perfect for a variety of projects. The micro-adjustment knob creates additional grip and precision, while the non-marring pads prevent scratching and scuffing to your projects. The quick-adjust design allows you to slide the clamp closed without pressing a single button, and the clamp remains tight until you press the release lever and open the jaws back up.
HURRICANE One-Handed Bar Clamps Set
The HURRICANE Bar Clamps are designed for convenience and efficiency in woodworking projects. With four 6-inch and two 12-inch clamps, you can easily tackle various tasks. The one-handed quick-change button allows you to switch between clamping and spreading effortlessly, saving you time and effort. Protective jaw pads ensure a firm grip without damaging your materials, making them perfect for gluing and assembling projects. The ergonomic handle and strong construction provide comfort and durability, allowing you to work longer without discomfort.
WEN 12-Inch Heavy Duty Steel Bar Clamps and Spreaders
The WEN 12-Inch Heavy Duty Steel Bar Clamps and Spreaders are a versatile tool designed for those who need to clamp or spread large objects. With a 12-inch maximum jaw opening and a 2.3-inch throat, these clamps can handle a variety of tasks. Additionally, the reversible design doubles as both a 12-inch clamp and a 17.25-inch spreader, making these clamps even more useful. Each clamp is rated for up to 150 pounds of force, and features a heavy duty reinforced steel bar, a quick-release latch, and an ergonomic squeeze trigger. With two hand clamps included, this set is a great value for those in need of reliable clamping and spreading tools.
JORGENSEN 36-inch Bar Clamps
The JORGENSEN 36-inch Bar Clamps come in a 2-pack and feature heavy-duty steel jaws and high-carbon steel bar for up to 1500 lbs. of clamping force. With a reversible head for spreader clamping, a clamp stand for easy adjustments, and maple handles that won't wear down your hands, these clamps are perfect for a wide range of woodworking tasks such as panel glue-ups, boxes, cabinets, frames, and raised panel doors. The maximum opening capacity is 36 inches, and the reinforced steel and castings protected by orange plastic add strength to the jaws.
Jorgensen 24" One Hand Clamp/Spreader - 2-pack
The Jorgensen 24" One Hand Clamp/Spreader - 2-pack is a medium-duty bar clamp set suitable for a wide range of woodworking projects. It features a max opening of 24" and a load limit of 300 lbs, and the E-Z HOLD II design allows for easy conversion into spreader clamps. The one-handed clamp allows for quick and easy use with soft and durable plastic pads, while the contoured comfort grip and quick-release lever make it simple to get a firm grip. The unique in-line advancing handle provides comfort and ease of use, and the clamps are ideal for hobby, craft, and model projects.
WORKPRO 6" Mini Bar Clamps
WORKPRO Mini Bar Clamps are versatile tools that come in a set of two 6-inch clamps. These clamps can be easily adjusted to spread up to 7-7/8 inches, offering flexibility for various woodworking projects. The innovative screw-release button design allows for quick transformation from a clamp to a spreader, making it convenient to use. With a quick-release latch, adjusting and removing the clamps is a breeze, saving you time. The non-marring pads ensure a secure grip without damaging your projects, while the solid rail construction provides reliable pressure up to 50lbs for extended periods.
HORUSDY 8-Pack Woodworking Clamps
The HORUSDY Woodworking Clamps set is a versatile choice for your projects, featuring four 6-inch bar clamps and four 4-inch spring clamps. With a strong clamping capacity of 75 lbs, these clamps ensure that your materials stay securely in place while you work. They're built to last, made from durable nylon and hardened steel, which means they can withstand tough jobsite conditions. The quick-change spreader feature allows you to easily convert the F-Clamp into a spreader, providing added flexibility. Plus, the lightweight design and non-slip pads enhance your grip and make your tasks more efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are 3 types of bar clamps?
There are various types of bar clamps available, including sash clamps, quick-release bar clamps, pipe clamps, and T-bar clamps. These clamps come in different sizes, ranging from 4 to 48 inches in length, providing options for various woodworking projects.
2. What is the proper use for a bar clamp?
Bar clamps are commonly used in woodworking, particularly for holding edges together during gluing. They have adjustable arms that can be widened or narrowed to fit the workpiece, requiring fewer turns of the screw spindle compared to C-clamps. This makes them efficient for securely holding the piece in place.
3. Are bar clamps better than pipe clamps?
Pipe clamps are generally more cost-effective than bar clamps and can provide higher clamping pressure. According to Fine Woodworking, a typical parallel clamp can exert around 370 pounds of pressure, while a 3/4" pipe clamp can reach 1,050 pounds, and I-beam style bar clamps can reach 1,350 pounds. The choice between bar clamps and pipe clamps depends on the specific needs and budget of the user.
4. What is the difference between a bar clamp and a C-clamp?
The main difference between a bar clamp and a C-clamp is the adjustable arms of the bar clamp. Bar clamps have arms that can be widened or narrowed to fit the workpiece, allowing for easier and quicker adjustments. This means that fewer turns of the screw spindle are required to hold the piece tightly compared to a C-clamp. Bar clamps are commonly used in woodworking, particularly for holding edges during gluing.
5. How do I know what size clamp to get?
To determine the size of the clamp you need, use calipers to measure the outside diameter (O.D.) of the hose and fitting application. Measure with the hose assembled on the pipe or tube fitting. Use this measurement to specify the nominal clamp size that will be suitable for your specific application.
6. What pipe to use for bar clamps?
When using pipe clamps, you can choose between galvanized pipe and black steel pipe. Both types are acceptable for pipe clamps, with black steel pipe being the more affordable option. Black steel pipe is commonly used for gas lines and is preferred by woodworkers on a tight budget.
During our bar clamp research, we found 25 bar clamp products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 106,939 customer reviews through our big data system to write the bar clamps list. We found that most customers choose bar clamps with an average price of $29.85.
The bar clamps are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of bar clamps, including WORKPRO, IRWIN, WEN, HURRICANE, Jorgensen. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.
Bar Clamps Comparison Table
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| Brand | Amazon Basics | WORKPRO | IRWIN | WEN | HURRICANE | WEN | Jorgensen | Jorgensen | WORKPRO | HORUSDY |
| Material | Nylon, Alloy Steel | Reinforced Nylon, Hardened Steel | Alloy Steel, Resin | Steel | Plastic | Nylon, Steel | High Carbon Steel | Glass Filled Nylon, High Carbon Steel | Aluminum | Nylon |
| Style | 6-Piece | Unique | 6 Pack | 36-Inch Bar | Modern | 12-Inch | 36-inch Bar Clamps | Unique | Modern | 8-Pack Bar Clamps |
| Color | Black/ Grey | Blue | Multi | Multicolor | Black and Yellow | Black | Orange | Black Orange | - | Orange |
| Item Weight | 4.1 Pounds | 5.3 Pounds | 3 Pounds | 2.6 Pounds | 2.95 Kilograms | 0.86 Kilograms | - | - | 0.14 Kilograms | 0.74 Kilograms |
| Tensile Strength | - | 150 Pounds | 140 Pounds | 1200 Pounds | 150 Pounds | 150 Pounds | 1500 Pounds | - | 50 Pounds | - |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 12 x 8 x 1 inches | 17.13 x 12.2 x 2.48 inches | 19.88 x 10.25 x 2.5 inches | 43.13 x 4.5 x 1.25 inches | - | - | - | - | - | 10.23 x 4.33 x 2 inches |
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9.7
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9.5
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9.5
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9.5
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9.3
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9.1
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9.1
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| Where to Buy |