Would I regret buying Uniklamps?

[Andy]

I know Bessey Uniklamps (the gray ones) are advertised as light-duty K-body clamps, so they wouldn't be quite as brawny as the real red ones. However, Amazon's prices are pretty tempting ($75 for two of each 6", 12", and 18"), and these size ranges are what I use most. Reviews at Amazon are generally positive. Would these be a good introduction to parallel-jaw clamping (I don't have any yet), or would I be disappointed and just want to get some real K-bodys or Cabinet Masters? I was thinking of eventually getting some of the 40" K-bodys (also only $30 ea at Amazon) for larger or heavier-duty applications. I'd appreciate comments from anyone who has used both Uniklamps and "real" parallel-jaw clamps (K-body, Cabinet Master, Gross Stabil). Thanks a lot, Andy

[David]

I use the Uni's a ton. I have all 3 sizes and find them super for small glue ups AND for holding fixtures (or is it jigs?). They have plenty of holding power for small glue ups. My shortest K body is 31, so that's a PITA for it's weight and length for small projects. Since the K bodies work great for the larger stuff, I see no need to intermix other brands of clamps in my shop.

Dave

[www]

No, you wouldn't regret it, in fact it is a very good deal!

(Link to product in question)

I have several UniKlamps and many more K-Body's. The UniKlamps hold their own for the less heavy clamping tasks, but you can still apply a fair bit of pressure using the UniKlamps too. They are a great cost-effective clamping solution for lots of woodworking tasks. Go for it!

Dean

[DonkeyHody]

Andy wrote: Would these be a good

It won't matter whether you buy the Uniklamps or not. Whether you buy them or not, whether you're disappointed or not; either way, you'll need more clamps someday. You can get the K-Bodies then. Most of us who've been at this a while have a ton of clamps of all shapes and sizes. You'll find plenty of uses for the Unis even after you get the K-Bodies.

DonkeyHody "Every man is my superior in that I can learn from him." - DonkeyHody

[Bruce Barnett]

I got the $99 K-Body 4-pack from Amazon, and the 40-inchers are HEAVY. You have to make sure the legs are supported at the far end so the klamps don't tilt.

I can see having some lighter clamps for small projects.

[Phisherman]

I'm sure these would be useful and adequate for some assemblies. The regular Bessey K-body clamps are worth every penny. (The only clamps I really regret buying were those made in China.)

[Toller]

You should try the ones from Homier. I thought $3 was cheap, but worth a try. When you tighten the screw, the aluminum stops just rip out. Apparently it they are easier to make if you use really soft aluminum.

[Mark & Juanita]

Well, you know machine tools are really expensive. If you can pick a material that's softer than your tools they last a whole lot longer. :-)

+--------------------------------------------------------------------------------+ If you're gonna be dumb, you better be tough +--------------------------------------------------------------------------------+

[Ken]

They are very good clamps. I use them to glue up raised panel doors. I have about 12 of the 18", at times wish I had more.

ken

[Andy]

Hi all, Thanks very much for sharing your experiences and opinions - I ordered the set from Amazon today... Andy