Buy C-Clamps & G-Clamps Online in Australia
Common Questions about C-Clamps and G-Clamps
What is a C-clamp used for?
A C-clamp, also called a G-clamp, holds workpieces together while you weld, glue, drill or machine them. The C-shaped frame opens around the work; a threaded screw with a swivel pad clamps the work tight. Used in welding fabrication, woodworking, joinery and general workshop holding tasks across trades.
What is the difference between a C-clamp and a G-clamp?
Same tool, different name. C-clamp is the American name; G-clamp is the British and Australian name. Both describe a fixed-frame screw clamp with a C or G-shaped body. Sizes are designated by throat depth and jaw opening. AIMS stocks both names interchangeably across the standard workshop range.
How is a C-clamp sized?
Two dimensions matter — jaw opening, which is the maximum gap the clamp can span, and throat depth, which is how far in from the edge the clamp can reach. Common workshop sizes run from 50 to 300 millimetre jaw opening. Match clamp size to workpiece thickness and clamping location.
How much pressure can a C-clamp apply?
Heavy-duty workshop C-clamps deliver substantial clamping force through the threaded screw — enough to deform soft metals or crush timber if over-tightened. Use just enough force to hold the work; over-clamping risks damage to both the work and the clamp threads. AIMS stocks light-duty and heavy-duty grades.
Are C-clamps suitable for welding?
Yes — heavy-duty C-clamps are the workshop standard for tacking and welding setups. The fixed frame holds parts in alignment while you weld. Avoid using the clamp as a current path for the welding circuit — use a dedicated earth clamp on the work itself. AIMS stocks welding-grade clamps.
C-Clamp + G-Clamp Selection — Quick Reference
C-clamps + G-clamps — TRADITIONAL screw-action clamps for WORKSHOP + welding + glue-up + assembly. Heavy-duty steel frame with screw shaft. Workshop + cabinet + steel fab. Different from F-clamps + bar clamps (longer reach).
| C-Clamp Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Standard C-Clamp (G-Clamp) | Workshop general clamping |
| Heavy-Duty Drop-Forged | Welding + steel fabrication |
| Deep-Throat C-Clamp | Reach over wider workpiece |
| Bessey Standard Range | Quality + reliable |
| Strong Hand Workshop | Standard quality range |
| Small (25-75mm Opening) | Workshop precision |
| Medium (100-200mm) | Standard workshop |
| Large (250-400mm+) | Heavy clamping + fabrication |
Critical: Don't over-tighten on soft material — use SOFT JAW PAD. Check screw threads + handle pivot for wear. Brands: Strong Hand, Bessey. Companion: clamps, locking clamps, hold-down clamps, hand tools.
C-Clamps & G-Clamps: Versatile One-Handed Holding
The C-clamp (or G-clamp in some regions) is the workhorse of the workshop. Cast iron, malleable iron, and quick-release versions let you lock down work across a huge range of thicknesses and angles. AIMS stocks Strong Hand and other trusted brands in multiple sizes.
Types We Stock
- Cast iron C-clamps: Rigid, reliable, heavy-duty
- Malleable iron G-clamps: Lightweight, still robust, easy to move between jobs
- Quick-release levers: One-handed opening and closing—massive time saver
- Sizes from small to large: Throat depths from shallow to deep, opening capacities up to 200 mm+
Why Strong Hand?
Strong Hand Engineering are known for smooth screw action and reliable locking. Their clamps won't slip or creep, and the jaws stay parallel under load.
What to Consider
Throat depth (how far the clamp reaches from the edge of your work), opening capacity (the widest gap it can span), and screw pitch (how fast you can tighten). AIMS staff can help match your job to the right clamp.
Since 1988, AIMS has supplied Australia's trades and workshops. For clamp advice, contact our team.