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Columbian 43112 Speed Clamps, Deep Reach, 4-Inch Throat Depth Max Opening 12-Inch | List Price: $24.81
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Brand: Columbian
Binding: Tools & Hardware
Features: - Made of notched hardened steel zinc, plated 7x27mm I-rail designed to reduce flexing
- Ductile cast iron jaws with non-maring pads
- Sergonomic handle designed for a sure grip and increased clamping force
My favorite small/mid size clamp [Posted on 2007-11-17]
I first bought this clamp several years ago when the local improvement store carried it. Although it was an instant favorite, I later found more reasons to like this clamp and subsequently ordered two more from here. I take my clamps seriously.
My biggest rave is the fact that this is not a clutch style mechanism, therefore I can operate the clamp and tighten it all with one hand while I'm holding the item with the other hand. Likewise with removal. I have used this for countless types of tasks.
When compared to a similar F-style clamp, a Bessey 50005 Tradesman 12" which is very similar, this one outperforms in the following ways:
The Columbian clamp uses a finer thread in the screw, which means there is less linear travel per crank. As a result, I am able to put considerably more force on the item with the Columbian clamp than with the Bessey clamp. The mechanical advantage is increased when I lightly oil the threads. When clamping wood & glue, I want as much pressure as possible for no-gap joints.
The other brand tries to capitalize on their coarse threads, but I prefer a fine thread for the same reasons that a fine thread bolt is rated for a higher toque spec without stripping and is capable of tighter clamping force.
Another plus with the Columbian is that the handle is of a larger diameter. The other one is more likely to wreck my hand. The Columbian uses a resin (plastic) handle, the other uses a wood handle. The handle is also tapered where your thumb and first finger meet it, allowing for good gripping. I would have imagined the larger handle of the 43112 to pose a problem when clamping up close (obstruction), but in practical application, this has never stopped me from clamping down on something.
Beyond that, the 4" throat reach is convenient. While at times, I would prefer this to reach another inch or so, it is just about right for most general purpose projects.
The bar is strong and I have never noticed it to deflect, even when I crank with all of my strength with both hands. (To the point of damaging the surface of wooden intermediate pusher boards.)
The 12" length is ideal for most of my garage projects. It can clamp to my drill press table without hitting the base, it can clamp to my router table without hitting the table beneath it. When I am clamping something held in the vise and the bars stick out horizontally, I don't clothesline myself when I walk by.
I've found this product useful with steel projects, woodworking, sawing, deck building, holding items for painting , and numerous other projects.
Cons: Occasionally, when working with the clamp upside down and holding the top (or when in a vise), the base will fall with gravity (and close the clamp) because there is no resistance to the slip mechanism this way. Since I'm usually struggling to place my work into place, this can be a challenge. Alternately, if you are holding the base while upside down and forget your angles, the top can slide all the way open.
If clamping with utmost force, the pad on the end of the screw can slide off and mar the surface if you fail to get the clamp perfectly perpendicular to your work. In application this is somewhat rare. I've experienced this about 2 times.
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