Lever-action cam clamps are easy to set up and tighten, letting you hold down parts quickly for machining and glue-ups.

Like traditional instrument maker’s cam clamps, lever-action clamps are quick and easy to tighten via their lever-activated cam lock. A good choice for general clamping duties around the shop, lever-action clamps are great for lamination work and big glue-ups where lots of clamps need to be installed quickly, before the adhesive sets. Jorgensen Gear Clamps and Lever Clamps, as well as Bessey KlicKlamps, all feature a long tightening lever: the farther you pull it, the tighter the clamp gets. The lever on Lee Valley’s aluminum assembly clamps simply clicks down to tighten; a small adjustment knob adjusts the clamping pressure.