DeWalt 24 in. Extra Large Trigger Clamp

Walking into my workshop with the DeWalt 24 in. Extra Large Trigger Clamp, I was eager to put it to the test. Known for its robust clamping force and versatile design, this tool has been one that I’ve had my eye on for a while. After a few projects, I can confidently say it has earned a spot among my go-to tools for various jobs.

The first thing that struck me was the sheer strength of this clamp. With a clamping force of 600 lbs, it offers serious holding power. This was particularly evident when I used it to hold a custom gate in place while I worked on the hinges. Even with the considerable weight and awkward positioning of the gate, the clamp held firm without any signs of strain. The 3-3/4 inch throat depth is another feature that impressed me. It allows for deeper reach, which came in handy when I needed to grab onto the gate further down.

The design of the DeWalt Trigger Clamp is well thought out. The reinforced nylon body combined with the heat-treated steel bar provides a durable and reliable structure that's built to last. The heat-treated steel bar, in particular, prevented any bending or warping, even under significant pressure. One of the standout features is the quick change button that allows for easy conversion to a spreader. This was a game-changer when I worked on replacing the fabric on some sling-style patio chairs. Switching the clamp to a spreader took only a few seconds and made the job significantly easier.

The clamp’s one-handed operation is a godsend, especially when you’re working solo. The large trigger is easy to engage, and applying pressure with one hand while holding materials with the other simplifies many tasks. In one project, I was edge gluing 1/4 inch thick hardwood for kitchen cupboard panels. The ability to quickly and securely apply clamps without needing an extra pair of hands was invaluable.

A minor drawback, however, is that the clamp jaws are not always perfectly square. This can be a bit of an annoyance if you’re looking for absolute precision. While it didn’t significantly affect my projects, it’s something to be aware of if you require perfect alignment.

The removable jaw pads are a nice touch, reducing the risk of marring the surfaces you’re working on. However, I did notice that the pads tend to slip off occasionally under high tension. To counteract this, I ended up epoxying the pads onto the arms, which provided a more secure fit. This minor modification significantly improved the clamp's reliability under high pressure.

Another point to consider is the weight of the clamp. At 1.6 kg, it’s on the heavier side, which could be tiring during extended use. However, this weight also contributes to its sturdy feel and impressive clamping force. For me, the trade-off is worth it, as I prefer a tool that can handle heavy-duty tasks without faltering.

In terms of versatility, the DeWalt Trigger Clamp shines. Whether you’re working on woodworking projects, assembling furniture, or carrying out home repairs, its ability to switch between clamping and spreading functions adds a layer of flexibility that’s hard to beat. I used it to disassemble, re-glue, and reassemble antique oak chairs, and the spreader function was crucial in gently prying apart the joints without causing damage.

The quick-release mechanism is smooth and reliable, making adjustments swift and hassle-free. This feature is particularly useful when you need to reposition the clamp multiple times in a single project. It’s clear that DeWalt has put thought into the user experience, ensuring that the clamp is both effective and easy to use.

While the price point is slightly higher compared to some competitors, I believe the quality and performance justify the investment. The DeWalt Trigger Clamp offers a combination of strength, durability, and user-friendly features that make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.

Overall, I would highly recommend the DeWalt 24 in. Extra Large Trigger Clamp. Its powerful clamping force, versatile design, and ease of use make it a standout tool for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. While there are a few minor drawbacks, they are easily manageable and do not significantly detract from the overall performance. If you’re in the market for a reliable and robust clamp, this DeWalt model is well worth considering.