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[Rob <becida AT comcast.net>]

While doing my current project I used a number of clamps, both "c" clamps 
and those adjustable bar clamps. I use them not only to hold something 
together while the glue dries but as a third hand.

As I used these I thought about where they came from. I bought one '"c" 
clamp at a hardware store when I really needed it, it was spendy. The rest 
I picked up at auctions, usually in a cardboard box with other stuff and 
always cheap. I have not spent even a dollar a piece for the last 10 I 
picked up.
The first 4 bar clamps I bought were 'good' ones ($$), the next 6 I picked 
up on sale at Harbor Freight at around $3 ea and they work as well as the 
clamps I paid a lot more for.
The last auction I went to I got a box of "c" clamps, lot's of drill bits, 
a soldering gun and some other junk for $5, there were 6 or 8 clamps in 
that box. At the same auction there were 4 24" bar clamps and they went for 
a lot. That makes me think the value of "c" clamps is really underrated.

Speaking of clamps, sometimes you can use "Vice Grip" clamping pliers to 
clamp things. After much blood spilled with house brand vice grips I only 
keep "Vice Grip"™vice grips.

Anyway if you are slowly gathering tools and such for the move to the 
'land' don't forget the clamps. I have never had too many clamps.



Rob

becida AT comcast.net
Western Washington State, USA