If you’re working on a project that requires you to clamp and hold multiple pieces of lumber together, you’ll have to decide whether to use trigger clamps or bar clamps. These tools are designed to perform the same basic function, but they do so in very different ways.
Bar clamps provide a stable base. Trigger clamps are used for heavy duty task. Bar clamps are less expensive and adjustable. Below we’ll compare in detail trigger clamps vs bar clamps vs pipe clamps so you can make an informed choice about which tool will work best on your current project and in the future.
Basics – trigger clamps vs bar clamps
Trigger clamps are a type of clamping mechanism that uses a small trigger to open and close the jaws. They typically have parallel jaws, which means they can be used for heavy or light-duty tasks. The biggest downside to trigger clamps is that it can be hard to work with your hands inside them, which makes them less than ideal for projects that require precision or intricate work. A bar clamp has two parts: A fixed jaw and an adjustable jaw that locks at whatever point you set it at. Bar clamps are one of three types of bar-style clamps available on the market today.
bar style clamps
- There are also pipe clamps and F clamps (sometimes called bayonet clamps). It’s important to know what each clamp is designed for so you can make an informed decision about what tool will best suit your needs.
- Pipe clamps are not as versatile as other styles because the opening in the mouth cannot vary in size; however, they can exert more pressure per square inch. It uses pipe instead of bars to form its clamping mechanism; these allow for more space behind the object being worked on.
- An F clamp has two screws where you set them then tighten everything down once everything else is adjusted properly.
What is a trigger clamp used for?
A good example of when a trigger clamp might be useful is when building structures like lattice fences where stability isn’t as important as strength. Trigger clamps are most commonly found in woodworking projects.
Detail comparison – Trigger clamps vs bar clamps vs pipe clamps
- Trigger clamps are often used for heavy-duty work where a lot of force needs to be applied. They are usually made of metal, which means they can withstand high pressure. They also have great gripping power because they slide on a rod, which means you don’t need to be in as close proximity to your work as with a bar clamp.
- Bar clamps are less expensive than trigger clamps, but you will need two hands to open them.
- Pipe clamps have a fixed length, so you’ll need to find the right size before purchasing.
- Trigger clamps are used for more temporary applications. They are easier to use because they don’t require any type of setup. A pipe clamp, on the other hand, requires you to tighten two bolts with a wrench to secure it in place. This can make them difficult to adjust when compared with a trigger clamp.
- Pipe clamps are better for pipes and bar clamps are better for smaller objects like picture frames.
- Pipe clamps also tend to cost more money but last longer than trigger clamps
- One disadvantage of using a trigger clamp is that it doesn’t have the same level of pressure as a pipe clamp does; this could be an issue if you’re using it for something heavy or thick such as plumbing pipes. If you only want to hold something temporarily then trigger clamps are perfect.
Read Also: Car Rigging swivel clamps guide
What are F clamps?
F clamps are designed for holding small objects such as smaller pieces of wood or sheet metal while working on them. They use pressure from screws that are tightened around the object and then screwed into a nut.
Winding Up
Trigger clamps can be used for light-duty work where bar clamps are too heavy. Some people prefer the versatility of being able to choose what size clamp they need, whereas others may see that as an inconvenience. Ultimately, it’s all about what you feel comfortable using and what will best meet your needs. If you’re not sure what size clamp you’ll need for a specific task, try out both types to get an idea of what suits your requirements. Both types offer different advantages and disadvantages depending on the situation.
