Parallel Clamps are the bread and butter of the woodworking clamps. They are versatile, strong, and have some specific advantages over other types of clamps. When you thinking of them though, you likely go to a few specific brands and miss that the power tool giant, DeWalt has offerings. When I had a chance to take a closer look at these clamps, I jumped to be able to investigate further how these clamps performed. Let’s dive into the DeWalt Parallel Clamp Review and see how the measure up.
A Little About The Brand-
DeWalt Parallel Clamp Review
Most Power Tool Manufacturers are fairly diverse in their offerings today, but there still seems to be a focus on specializing in a few fields. Some opt for concrete, electrical or plumbing, while DeWalt favors the carpenters. With recent launches like their Jig Saws, Nailers and the Cordless Sander that launched last year, they have brought a slew of solid cordless offerings to the world of woodworking. As well, they have a few shop tools that put forth both excellent value and solid performance, such as their Scroll Saw and their Planer.
DeWalt has a long history in the United States, beginning in 1922 when Raymond DeWalt produced the first woodworking machine. It has seen incredible growth and change since, but without a doubt, there will be some exciting new tools coming from DeWalt in the coming years.
Detailed Look-
DeWalt Parallel Clamp Review
As of now, the DeWalt Parallel Clamps are available in two lengths, 24-inch( DWHT83831) and 48-inch (DWHT83832).
Parallel Clamps by design allow for smooth and even support to keep workpieces flush. The smooth jaw is designed to protect work surfaces and has a 3-3/4 inch throat depth.
Overall these Clamps provide 1500 lbs of clamping force.
The steel bar is smooth vs notched like most Parralel Clamp, and provides smooth movement.
DeWalt designed the handle using Quad-Lobe material for optimum grip during high torque, high force applications.
Value-
DeWalt Parallel Clamp Review
DeWalt offers these clamps at a few places, Home Depot sells the 24-inch for $34.97 and the 48-inch for $44.97. These clamps are actually priced very competitively and actually run lower than most comparable clamps. I think the quality is quite stellar too, as we have come to expect from DeWalt.
My Thoughts-
DeWalt Parallel Clamp Review
These DeWalt Clamps initially caught my eye while shopping at my local Home Depot store. The price seemed reasonable and they were certainly rugged and well built from what I could tell in store. Thankfully this held true once I got them in the shop too. These clamps are strong and well built, yielding significant pressure that should be sufficient for most any glue-up.
A few things that really set these clamps apart are the jaws and the handle. The jaws are designed with single-piece construction, rather than removable contact pads. I thought this really made a difference in how well the clamp held the workpiece level and eliminates some headaches with contact pads being lost and damaged.
The handle is a stand out for a few reasons, first, it was really comfortable to use. The rubberized over-molding allowed incredible torque when tightening and certainly allows the most force possible in use without strain to the user. The other note on the handle is that the threaded portion is longer than on most clamps. From a use standpoint- it is easier to tighten to the correct and full pressure.
I was overall impressed with the steel bars too. One thing I noticed initially was that the bars were smooth instead of corrugated as most are. There are a few benefits to this, but the main one is that the jaws slide easily back and forth since there are no catches. A side benefit to this too is that it makes any residual wood glue really easy to clean up. I did notice that after some use, the Jaws did leave small indentions on these smooth bars. This is nothing significant and honestly wouldn’t stop me from purchasing them, but could be something you encounter in use.
I have really enjoyed these DeWalt Parallel Clamps in my shop. I use clamps on a daily basis and these have been a welcome addition. I have made a slew of cutting boards, as well as some larger glue ups all without fail. Parallel Clamps are a shop staple, and while not all clamps are created equal, these DeWalt ones don’t disappoint. They are strong, stable, and well-designed allowing for quick and easy operation. DeWalt did an excellent job overall in these clamps and are certainly worth a closer look if you find yourself in the market.