The 6 Best Edge Clamps

This wiki has been updated 19 times since it was first published in October of 2019. Edge clamps can help you achieve a superior fit and finish on your wood and metalworking projects. They facilitate applying substantial amounts of pressure to joinery that mates on the side of a larger piece. We have included several distinct styles that should each earn a place on your shop's rack, and our selections were made considering features such as durability, price, and functionality. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

This wiki has been updated 19 times since it was first published in October of 2019. Edge clamps can help you achieve a superior fit and finish on your wood and metalworking projects. They facilitate applying substantial amounts of pressure to joinery that mates on the side of a larger piece. We have included several distinct styles that should each earn a place on your shop's rack, and our selections were made considering features such as durability, price, and functionality. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Bessey EKT55

If you're working with pine or spruce and are worried about marring, the Bessey EKT55 (around $58) features soft pads that apply pressure without denting the grain. The compound screw mechanism allows you to position and tighten the assembly with one hand.

Up to 500 pounds of force
All-aluminum frame
Great for small moldings

2. Rockler 54258

While quite small, the Rockler 54258 (appx. $21) can be lifesavers when you're laminating delicate moldings and have no place to use a bar clamp. The durable rubber band will apply the right amount of pressure without deforming any intricate detailing.

Comfortable overmolded handles
Fiberglass-reinforced nylon
Pads resist slipping

3. Bessey KF2

At 80 millimeters, the throat of the Bessey KF2 (appx. $68) is wide enough to allow you to glue large pieces together. It also features the convenient innovation of spring-loaded wedges to hold the assembly flat while you tighten the lateral screw.

Soft contact points
Comfortable handle
Great for veneer work

4. Rockler 5055

If you're building kitchen or bathroom cabinets, the Rockler 5055 (around $39) can save you time and money while gluing the faces to the rest of the box. The frame is molded into a strong I-beam structure, while cutting out unneeded material to lower its overall weight.

Quick-release mechanism
Thick rubber padding
Wide throat opening

5. Silverline 868223

The Silverline 868223 (appx. $15) features carbon steel spindles and a durable cast-iron frame that will ensure a long service life. All of its components have been powder-coated to make them rust-resistant and to make it easy to clean off any excess wood glue.

Useful for trim glue-up
Thick body casting
Lateral screw is slow to turn

6. Elitexion 3-Way

The Elitexion 3-Way (around $14) are made entirely of steel and come as a set of two. Their throat opening is about 2-1/2 inches, which should give you plenty of room when laminating large tabletops. You might need to place a rag at the points of contact to avoid damage, though.

Great for welding jobs
Nicely machined threads
Screws go through pressure pads

Last updated by Rafael Perez

Rafael Perez is a doctoral candidate in philosophy at the University of Rochester. His primary focus is the metaphysics of time and the philosophy of mind, with a particular interest in artificial intelligence and antirepresentational models of the mind. He has extensive experience as a mechanic, a construction worker, and a general repairman. This has allowed him to gather a wealth of knowledge on automobile repair, auto parts, carpentry, masonry, welding, and the tools used in those trades. In his spare time, he enjoys playing guitar, woodworking, and fishing.

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