Toggle Clamps

About Toggle Clamps

Toggle clamps are essential workshop tools designed to secure workpieces quickly and reliably during cutting, drilling, routing, gluing and assembly operations. Unlike traditional clamps that require continuous adjustment, toggle clamps bolt directly to worksurfaces and use a simple lever-action mechanism to apply consistent clamping force in seconds. This makes them ideal for repetitive tasks where speed and accuracy are crucial. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks toggle clamps from trusted manufacturers including Bessey, Festool and Trend, offering professional-grade solutions for both workshop and on-site applications.

Available in various configurations including vertical, horizontal, angled base and push-pull designs, toggle clamps can be permanently or semi-permanently installed to create custom jigs and workstations. Self-adjusting models accommodate different workpiece thicknesses without manual reconfiguration, whilst specialised variants like the Festool MFT-HZ 80 integrate seamlessly with multifunction work tables for enhanced versatility.

Applications

Toggle clamps are invaluable across numerous trades and industries:

• Carpentry and joinery – securing timber during routing, sanding and assembly work
• Metalworking and fabrication – holding metal components for welding, drilling and grinding
• Manufacturing and production – creating repeatable jigs for batch production processes
• Woodworking – holding panels and boards during edge treatment and finishing
• Shopfitting and installation – securing materials during cutting and preparation
• Model making and prototyping – precise positioning of small components during assembly
• DIY enthusiasts – enhancing workshop efficiency for hobby projects

Choosing The Right Toggle Clamps

When selecting toggle clamps from MyToolShed.co.uk, consider these key factors:

Clamping direction: Vertical toggle clamps push downward onto workpieces, horizontal models clamp from the side, whilst angled base designs combine both actions. Push-pull clamps offer bi-directional force for specialised applications.

Holding capacity: Assess the maximum clamping force required for your materials. Bessey STC models offer professional-grade holding power suitable for demanding workshop environments.

Base configuration: Choose between horizontal and vertical base mounting depending on your worksurface layout and available space. Ensure the base pattern matches your bench dog holes or mounting points.

Adjustability: Self-adjusting models like the Bessey STC-HH automatically accommodate varying workpiece thicknesses, reducing setup time for mixed production runs.

Accessories: Some toggle clamps include accessory sets with alternative contact pads and arms, providing greater flexibility for different applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can toggle clamps be moved between different workbenches?

Yes, toggle clamps can be semi-permanently installed using bolts, allowing removal and repositioning when needed. For maximum flexibility, consider mounting them to removable boards that can be clamped into bench dog holes.

What's the difference between vertical and horizontal toggle clamps?

Vertical toggle clamps apply downward pressure with a vertical arm, ideal for holding flat workpieces. Horizontal models clamp from the side with a horizontal arm, better suited for edge work or holding vertical components.

Do I need different toggle clamps for different material thicknesses?

Standard toggle clamps require manual adjustment for different thicknesses, but self-adjusting models like the Bessey STC-HH automatically compensate for variations, making them more efficient for varied work.