Quick Release Clamps

Quick Release Clamps

Quick release clamps (also called quick grip or bar clamps) tighten and release with a trigger mechanism — squeeze the trigger to slide the jaw, release to lock, squeeze the release lever to free the clamp. The result is one-handed clamping in seconds instead of cranking a screw clamp. For fabrication, woodworking, gluing, and any application where you need to clamp work fast and free a hand for other tasks, quick release clamps are the right tool. AIMS Industrial stocks quick release clamps in the sizes and styles trade and industrial users actually need.

The clamp types we stock

• One-handed bar clamps — trigger-action bar clamps in lengths from 150mm through to 1200mm and beyond
• Heavy-duty bar clamps — for higher clamping force and larger workpieces
• Spreader-clamps — reverse-action clamps for spreading apart rather than clamping together
• Mini clamps — small format for delicate or small-component work
• Track clamps — for clamping to T-track and machinist's tables

Where quick release clamps earn their place

• Gluing and joinery — clamping freshly-glued joints quickly before the glue sets
• Fabrication assembly — holding parts in position while welding or fastening
• Workpiece holding — temporary clamping for drilling, sanding, or cutting
• Production setup — fixturing where parts need to be clamped and released repeatedly
• One-handed operation — when one hand needs to hold the work or another tool

Sizing

Bar clamp size is the maximum opening — a 600mm clamp opens up to 600mm. Common workshop sizes run 150mm, 300mm, 600mm, 900mm, and 1200mm. Most workshops carry a mix — small clamps for detail work, larger clamps for bigger glue-ups and assemblies. A useful starting kit covers two each of three sizes; expand based on the work.

Clamping force

Quick release clamps deliver less clamping force than equivalent screw clamps — the trade-off for the speed of operation. Typical workshop bar clamps deliver 100-200kg of clamping force; heavy-duty versions reach 400kg+. For delicate work, that's plenty; for heavy structural glue-ups, multiple clamps or the addition of dedicated screw clamps may be needed.

Jaw protection

Most quick release clamp jaws have rubber or plastic jaw pads to prevent marking the workpiece. The pads wear over time and should be replaced when they're damaged or no longer protect the work. For finish-critical applications, additional pad covers (cork, rubber, or felt) provide extra protection on critical surfaces.

Brands stocked at AIMS

The quick release clamp range covers trade-grade brands chosen for build quality and reliable trigger mechanisms. Cheap unbranded clamps often have triggers that wear out or jaws that slip under load — false economy for daily-use clamps. For specific brand requirements, contact our team for current options.

Care and longevity

Quick release clamps last longer when they're treated well. Wipe down after gluing work (dried glue locks the trigger mechanism), keep them out of the bottom of the toolbox where bar surfaces get damaged, and replace worn jaw pads rather than working without them. Trigger mechanisms occasionally need lubrication; a drop of light machine oil keeps them smooth.

Need help speccing a clamp set for a workshop or specific project? contact our team — we'll match by size mix, force requirement, and budget.