DeWalt 36 in. Extra Large Trigger Clamp

When I first laid hands on the DeWalt 36 in. Extra Large Trigger Clamp, the first thing that struck me was its solid build. The combination of a reinforced nylon body and a heat-treated steel bar immediately gave me confidence that this clamp was designed to handle heavy-duty tasks. As someone who spends a lot of time in the workshop, having reliable tools that can stand the test of time is paramount.

Design and Build Quality

The DeWalt Trigger Clamp boasts a clamping force of up to 600 pounds, which is quite impressive for its category. The 3-3/4 inch throat depth provides ample reach, making it suitable for a variety of applications, from woodworking to DIY home repairs. The black oxide carbon steel I-beam bar ensures that it remains sturdy under pressure, while the 36-inch bar length adds versatility, allowing it to tackle both small and large projects.

The quick change button is a thoughtful feature, enabling easy conversion from a clamp to a spreader. This versatility is particularly beneficial when you're in the middle of a project and need to switch functions without fumbling around. However, the absence of detailed instructions on how to reverse the clamp can be a bit frustrating for first-time users. Once you figure out the mechanism, it’s straightforward, but there’s definitely a learning curve involved.

Functionality and Performance

One-handed operation is a major highlight of this tool. It's incredibly convenient to be able to adjust the clamp with one hand while positioning your workpiece with the other. This feature significantly speeds up the workflow and is ideal for solo projects where an extra hand isn't available.

The clamping pressure is as advertised, and I found it to be consistently reliable. Whether I was holding up a misaligned wall cabinet or securing pieces for a glue-up, the DeWalt clamp delivered robust performance. The removable jaw pads are another excellent addition, designed to minimize damage to your work surfaces. While the pads do a good job of preventing marring, they can sometimes come off too easily. A dab of glue helps keep them in place, although this is a minor inconvenience that could be improved in future iterations.

Practical Applications

In my workshop, I used the DeWalt clamp for a variety of tasks, from assembling ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets to constructing barn doors. The clamp held firm without any noticeable flex in the bar, which is crucial for maintaining precision. The deep throat depth allowed me to arrange several clamps at 90-degree angles, ensuring the forces during glue-up were evenly distributed.

One particularly unconventional use was in my greenhouse, where I employed the spreading feature to level benches. The 600-pound clamping force effortlessly lifted the full bench, proving the tool's versatility and strength in different environments.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, the DeWalt clamp isn't without flaws. The quick-release mechanism, while convenient, can sometimes disengage at inopportune moments, which can be frustrating. This issue could benefit from a more secure design to prevent accidental releases.

Additionally, while the bar is sturdy for clamping, it shows some weakness when used as a spreader under significant pressure. A stiffer bar would enhance its functionality in this mode. The plastic components, though durable, may not inspire confidence for extremely heavy-duty applications, and I did encounter a failure where the fixed end broke under stress during one of my projects.

Conclusion and Recommendation

Overall, the DeWalt 36 in. Extra Large Trigger Clamp is a solid, versatile tool that excels in a variety of tasks. Its ease of use, strong clamping force, and dual functionality make it a valuable addition to any workshop. The minor issues, such as the quick-release mechanism and the removable jaw pads, do require some attention but are not deal-breakers.

For those in need of a reliable, high-capacity clamp that can also serve as a spreader, this DeWalt model is worth considering. Its robust performance and user-friendly design outweigh the minor inconveniences, making it a tool that I would recommend to both hobbyists and professionals.