6 Best Cabinet Face Frame Clamps for Cabinet Installation
While working on a home project, you may wonder what are the best cabinet face frame clamps are. There are many different types of clamps on the market, and each has its own set of pros and cons. In this article we are going to look at 6 of the best cabinet face frame clamps on the market right now. Each one will be reviewed in detail so that you can get a great feel of just what each product has to offer. Then you will know exactly which one suits your needs the most. So, how about we get straight to it?
What Are Cabinet Face Frame Clamps?
Cabinet face frame clamps are used to keep the cabinet frame’s end panels together. This makes it easy to place screws from one side to the other without gaps between the parts. They may be secured in place and are adjustable. They also keep two cabinet face frames straight while compiling them together. It will be easier to make a final adjustment before the screws are inserted if you do it this way. Cabinet clamps come in a variety of sizes and shapes, depending on the size and shape of your cabinets.
Aside from being a necessary item for installing a cabinet frame, it is also worth noting that they may be used for a variety of other things, like shelves, picture frames, and even simple hobbies like creating a birdhouse.
| Image | Product | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Pony Cabinet Claw Face Frame Clamps | Aluminum, Zinc Plated, Two (2) Cabinet Clamp |
Check Price |
 |
Bessey Cabinetry Face Frame Clamps | Aluminum, Nylon, Two (2) BES8511 Face Frame Cabinetry Clamps |
Check Price |
 |
Irwin Quick-Grip Clamps | Resin, Four 6″ One-Handed Mini Bar Clamps |
Check Price |
 |
Jorgensen 6″ Spreader/Bar Clamp Set | Plastic, 4-pack, One-Hand Light Duty E-Z Hold Clamp/Spreader |
Check Price |
 |
Shop Fox Face Frame Clamp | Alloy fabrication, 1 Fox face frame clamp |
Check Price |
 |
Bessey One-Handed Edge Clamp | Aluminum, Only 1 Edge Clamp |
Check Price |
Review of the 6 Best Cabinet Face Frame Clamp
Now we will provide you with a list of the top 6 best cabinet face frame clamp for faster and accurate face frame installation.
1. Pony Cabinet Claw Face Frame Clamps
Overview
Brand: Pony Jorgensen
Product: Pony 8510BP Cabinet Claw, 2-Pack
Material: Aluminum, Zinc Plated
Included Components: Two (2) Cabinet Clamp
Item Weight: 3 pounds
Key Features
- Protective pads on jaws.
- Throat Depth: 1-1/2 Inch
- Has a 2-inch minimum opening.
- Maximum opening capacity of 4-7/16 inches.
- Provides a stable base to attach the cabinet to the wall.
The Pony 8510BP Cabinet Claw is a time saving tool for cabinet installation professionals. It is a very special tool that streamlines the installation of face frame cabinets by combining many procedures into one. It is simple to install and lasts a long time. And it is in number 1 position on our list of best cabinet face frame clamps.
Cabinets are protected from damage during installation using protective pads. While the Clamp remains in its original position, face frame stiles can be tightened, aligned, pre-drilled, and fastened. When compared to the use of more traditional clamps, professional, high-quality installation requires a fraction of the time.
These are by far the greatest clamps for face frame cabinets. They make aligning and holding the face frames together for predrilling and screwing them together a breeze. They are fantastic for higher end cabinets, but they are also fantastic for lower cost cabinets that are slightly out of square. They are also useful for shimming cabinets on uneven walls.
If you simply follow the included instructions, this is an amazing tool. Install the clamp where it’s needed, first tightening the ‘face’ screw, then tightening the side screw. As required, make adjustments. Drill and insert a screw after swiveling the plastic cover to the side. That’s all you have to do to use this.
The only concern is the clamp’s width. For the right size of cabinet frames, see the item’s specs. Smaller framed cabinets will not be clamped. When two cabinet frames were the same size as the clamp, it worked nicely. I liked the drilling port for aligning the bit and the sliding drill door for installing screws while the clamp was still in place.
With these clamps, installing face frame cabinets got considerably easier, simpler, and more precise. After used them several times and you will be practically crazy with delight at how much effort they reduce. And you will agree that they are fantastic!
Pros
- Two adjustable jaws.
- Protective rubber pads.
- Pilot-hole guides are movable.
- Bundle contains two clamps.
Cons
- Heavier for sophisticated surface.
- Lever drill guide may fall apart.
2. Bessey Cabinetry Face Frame Clamps
Overview
Brand: Bessey
Product: Bessey BES8511 Face Frame Clamp Pair
Material: Aluminum, Nylon
Included Components: Two (2) BES8511 Face Frame Cabinetry Clamps
Item Weight: 2 pounds
Key Features
- Non scratching felt pads are included for protecting the cabinet.
- Clamp capacity: 4 Inch, throat depth: 1-1/4 Inch, jaw width: 2 Inch
- Clamping force: 300 – 600 lbs.
- Acme threaded screws
The Bessey Cabinetry Face Frame Clamp is designed to consolidate several face frame cabinet installation steps into one simple process. Provides perfect cabinet installation in a fraction of the time it takes to do so using traditional methods.
It may be used on stiles that are 1-1/2 to 2 inches wide and up to 1-1/2 inches thick (Each). While the clamp is in place, face frame stiles may be tightened, aligned, pre-drilled, and fastened. The clamp keeps the cabinet edges together while also keeping the faces flush along the joint. On one end, there is an integrated pilot-hole drilling guide. The guide flips out of the way so you can screw the cabinets together without having to remove or reposition the clamp.
With steel sliding T-bars and an aluminum alignment plate, this heavy-duty clamp is built mostly of steel. To protect and cushion the points of contact on your cabinets, it comes with three non-marring felt pads for the clamp faces and an alignment plate.
Face frame can be harmed by the center clamp. Because the middle of the plate creates a dimple in the face frame of the cabinet, you will need to use a little piece of card board in between to prevent damage. This is a kind of poor design, but they still worked properly.
If you are going through replacing kitchen cabinets or any other cabinets. Then definitely it will assist you in the speedier alignment of the cabinets, as well as the drilling and driving of trim screws. So, you will say it is well worth the money.
Pros
- Movable pilot-hole guide.
- Lightweight and durable.
- Non-marring felt pad included.
- Hold cabinets in place.
Cons
- Prone to rust.
- Center clamp can damage the face frame.
3. Irwin Quick-Grip Clamps
Overview
Brand: IRWIN
Product: IRWIN Quick-Grip Clamps, One-Handed, Mini Bar, 6-Inch, 4-Pack
Material: Resin
Included Components: Four 6″ One-Handed Mini Bar Clamps
Item Weight: 1 Pounds
Key Features
- Grip firmly and protect your workpiece from scratches and scuffs with non-marring pads.
- The clamps are released instantaneously using one-handed triggers.
- It’s perfect for clamping tiny workpieces and working in tight spaces.
The IRWIN Quick-Grip Clamps are excellent light duty clamps for a variety of applications. The build quality is quite good, and the functioning is very smooth. This is maybe exactly what you needed to get started on your new cabinet project. These are powerful and cost-effective. With each pump of your hand, the handgrip mechanism you use to tighten the clamp has more range of motion, allowing you to obtain more travel (quicker response) out of the tool. It also feels smoother and more “positive”.
The IRWIN Quick-Grip Clamps are one handed bar clamp delivers up to 300 lbs. of uniformly distributed force. It has a one-handed operating design with a pistol grip and quick-release trigger. In seconds, the quick-change button transforms the clamp into a spreader. Jaws swivel to keep in touch with a variety of unusual forms. Flexing and bending are prevented by using an I-bar beam.
For any clamping application, IRWIN Quick-Grip Clamps provide the perfect fit, features, and pressure. You will always receive the clamping performance you need, whether you are working on a tiny craft project or large-scale cabinetry.
These clamps will be performed above and beyond your expectations. They have a very sturdy and powerful mechanism that produces more clamping pressure than other clamps do. They keep their gripping force without sliding over time. All of the moving parts that are used to create and sustain clamping pressure are made of heavy metal. The grips are plastic, and the clamping jaws appear to be made of some form of fiber-reinforced plastic, making them heavier and more durable than traditional clamping jaws. The slip-on pads on the jaws aren’t the nicest, but they look to do the job.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Cheap price.
- Nice rubber cushioning.
- Equally distribute 150 lbs. of force.
Cons
- Screws can break over time.
- Can’t buy just one.
4. Jorgensen 6″ Spreader/Bar Clamp Set
Overview
Brand: Jorgensen
Product: Jorgensen 6″ Spreader/Bar Clamp Set
Material: Plastic
Included Components: 4-pack, One-Hand Light Duty E-Z Hold Clamp/Spreader
Item Weight: 3.26 pounds
Key Features
- Light-duty E-Z hold design
- Maximum opening capacity: 6 Inch
- Normal load limit: 150 lbs.
- These bar clamps combine the speed and ease of single-handed use.
- With a reach of 2-3/8 Inch and soft, long-lasting plastic pads.
- The protective jaw pads are removable and replaceable.
Jorgensen 6″ Spreader/Bar Clamp’s light-duty E-Z hold design allows it to be used as a clamp or a spreader. These flexible clamps not only can be easily changed into spreader clamps, but they also include our distinctive patented feature that allows two clamps to be connected together to create a clamp with more than quadruple the opening capacity of a single clamp.
This One-handed Clamp’s revolutionary sliding head maintains significantly higher clamping pressures up to 300 lbs. as a regular, quick-acting clamp. Comfort and convenience of use are provided by the distinctive in-line advancing handle, which allows for more movement each press.
The curved comfort grip and fast release lever make it easy to quickly obtain a strong grasp. These sturdy, light-weight aluminum bar clamps provide an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. It is ideal for both commercial and do-it-yourself uses.
These clamps are also more adaptable than those from other companies. Changing the end of the clamp to use as a spreader is straightforward and tool-free, requiring just the push of a button on the clamp’s end to release it from the bar, rather than removing the mechanical stop in the bar. You can join two Jorgensen clamps together to make a longer clamp if needed, as the clamp ends are molded with matching puzzle shapes that securely join two clamps together, allowing you to use the united clamps with just one hand – no more trying to line up opposing clamp faces with both hands while juggling the clamps and the workpieces you are clamping together.
Pros
- One-handed clamp.
- Throat depth: 2-3/8 Inch.
- Durable plastic pads.
- Use in two ways – clamp or spreader.
Cons
- Release trigger has an issue.
5. Shop Fox Face Frame Clamp
Overview
Brand: Shop Fox
Product: Shop Fox D2269 Face Frame Clamp
Material: Alloy fabrication
Included Components: 1 Fox face frame clamp
Item Weight: 1 pounds
Key Features
- Replaces the need for awkward pipe clamps.
- Works well with Cabinets with mortise face frames.
- Non marring pads are sized for 3/4-inch thick stock.
- Large handle pulls joints together easily.
The Shop Fox D2269 Face Frame Clamps are ideal for face frame assembly because they firmly hold two abutted frame components together at 90 degrees. The Face Frame Clamp allows you to work on only one joint at a time, reducing the feeling that you need to hold everything together like an octopus. When employing pipe and bar clamps to easily supply appropriate tension for a tight union, eliminate irritation from work components breaking loose during planning. Glue slippage is likewise a thing of the past since it exerts pressure in-line with the joint.
The Shop Fox D2269 Face Frame Clamp was created with the intention of providing years of trouble-free service. A strict quality control program, meticulous attention to detail, and ruggedly made parts ensure safe and dependable operation. Clamping in small areas gives you more control and better outcomes. This Face Frame Clamp replaces difficult-to-set lengthy and bulky pipe or bar clamps. This clamp connects directly to the workpiece, near to the joint, making it ideal for face frame building.
The non-marring pads are suited for 3/4-inch thick stock and grip firmer when the huge thumb screw handle is pressed down. Construction that is both light and sturdy.
These clamps are just fantastic to assemble a mortise and tenon face frame. Otherwise, you will need very lengthy pipe clamps. The primary body of the clamp needs to be placed against the front of the face frame, which will help to maintain the face flat. The clamp may marry the wood and may require a hammer to free it. To avoid breaking or chipping the clamp, it is recommended to smash it with a rubber mallet while releasing it.
Pros
- Non-marring pads.
- Durable but lightweight.
- Friction jaws hold tight.
- 3/4-inch capacity.
Cons
- Fat arm obstructs driving the screw.
6. Bessey One-Handed Edge Clamp
Overview
Brand: Bessey
Product: Bessey EKT55 One-Handed Edge Clamp
Material: Aluminum
Included Components: Only 1 Edge Clamp
Item Weight: 1.95 pounds
Key Features
- The clamping jaws are acted on by the outer spindle, while the front edge is pressed by the inner spindle.
- Positive grip with two big non-slip, opposing, gentle jaws
- Impact resistant plastic handle.
- Max: 450-500 lbs. of pressure.
- Features a compound screw mechanism.
The BESSEY EKT-55 clamp is a professional edge clamp that may be used with one hand while holding your edging with the other. Once the first clamp is in place, grasp a clamp in each hand and begin applying them two at a time. This is a fantastic time saver! You can generally use it to attach face frames on cabinets. It is simple to operate and, despite its size, it is lightweight. The device functioned perfectly with the cabinet face frame.
When pressure is applied to the front edge of the countertop, a compound screw mechanism allows simultaneous engagement of the top and bottom pressure pads. Surfaces up to 2-1/8″ thick can be clamped. Soft plastic caps are used on pressure pads to provide gentle, non-slip clamping.
By simply turning the handle, you can tighten the clamp and secure the edge. A clamp that keeps the material from sliding, does not injure the clamped surfaces, and offers a solid grip while allowing the clamped components to be realigned if necessary is required to fasten beading and edge strips to flat panels.
The massive metal casting is surprisingly light, and some of the machinery within is made of plastic, making it quite portable. You can also use it to attach edge molding onto plywood while gluing and it will work well, with no slippage. However, the price may surprise you, that’s why it is at the last position of our list.
Pros
- No harm to clamped surfaces
- Two adjustable jaws.
- Usable with both hands.
- Soft plastic for gentle grip.
Cons
- No pilot-hole guide.
- Expensive.
Buying Guide for Cabinet Face Frame Clamp
Cabinet face frame clamps can ease your work. But you have to consider a lot of factors before buying this must have tool. Now I will talk about some of them as well so that you do not make any mistakes in your purchase decision process.
Tips for choosing a best cabinet face frame clamp for yourself:
Price Range
Price varies from one model to another based on size, quality, convenience of use, and other factors. Take all of these factors into account when purchasing so that you do not waste money on something unnecessary.
Materials Used
Different cabinet face frame clamps are built with different type of materials. Their design varies a lot, that’s why the material used in them also varies. High-quality materials have a longer lifespan and are more durable and useful.
Aluminum alloy, carbon steel, and metal are some of the most common materials utilized to construct cabinet installation clamps. You have to choose a durable material used cabinet face frame clamp that fits in your budget.
Your Purpose
Another crucial consideration is the use of purpose. You must consider where you will apply these clamps. Will you solely use these clamps to attach cabinet face frames or will you use them for something else? It is dependent on the nature of your project and cabinet.
If you are only installing a cabinet face frame, then Pony and Bessey are better. Other cabinet clamps might be better if you’re planning to utilize these cabinet face frame clamps for anything else, like installing drawer slides or panels.
Go for Pair
To secure frames, you should use two clamps for top and lower cabinets. Because one clamp cannot hold the frames tight and accurate. So, you should buy them as a pair. Otherwise it may not be useful to you.
Look for non-marring pads
Look for cabinet clamps with pads to safeguard your product from scratches and damage. It is very usual that sometimes clamping can damage your furniture, but you can easily avoid this awkward situation by choosing a pad protected cabinet face frame clamp. Otherwise clamping jaw can damage your furniture. Look for non-marring pad that fits in your budget.
How To Use Cabinet Face Frame Clamps?
When screwing a cabinet face frame together, ensure the two components are exactly aligned. Apply some wood glue to one of the pieces and secure it to the other using screws drilled from one side. These holes should be somewhat smaller than your screws, otherwise they will split apart when you tighten them using a clamping mechanism.
Once both panels are connected, install your clamps on either side and tighten them so that they are tight enough but not so tight that anything bulges out between them. Make any last adjustments before using your drill to secure them in place. Finally, make sure that all of your screws are in place and that everything seems solid.
Some Tips and Tricks for Using Face Clamp
Cabinet face frame clamps are very versatile and can be used on various other woodworking jobs.
- Always use at least two clamps for upper and lower cabinets to secure frames. Because it will precisely tight two frames straight.
- Try to use trim head cabinet screws while joining two face frames. Because they are the best screw that works good for this type of joining work.
- If your cabinet face frame clamp does not come with anti-marring pad, then use a small piece of cardboard in between clamps and cabinet. Otherwise there is a high risk of damaging your cabinet.
- First you should loosely tighten the side adjustment screw, then adjust the front adjustment screw until the both cabinet face frame aligns perfectly. And then try to adjust the side adjustment screw again, then again adjust the front adjustment screw. Repeat this process until there is no need to adjust. But don’t try to adjust one screw fully tight at once.
What Should You Look for in a Cabinet Clamp?
Cabinet clamps free us our hands so we may focus on other areas of the task. How can you determine which one is the best fit for your job? Here are some things to think about when buying a cabinet clamp:
Look for cabinet clamps with non-marring or rubber pads to safeguard your product from scratches and damage. It is very important because using cabinet clamp without non-marring pad can damage your cabinet which is much more expensive than this.
Consider if you can adjust the clamp manually or if auto-adjustment would be beneficial. Because adjustable clamp can be used in other tasks too. Also, think about how much wood the clamps can hold and if that will be enough for your project.
Frequently Asked Questions on Cabinet Face Frame Clamps
1. What Are The Benefits of Using Cabinet Face Frames?
It is a unique instrument that speeds the installation of face frame cabinets by integrating many operations into a single step. It holds the cabinet face frame together and straight while installing screws on two face frames.
2. How Many Clamps Will You Require?
You may require at least two clamps. It actually depends on the size of your cabinet face frame. In general, one clamp is required for every 1 foot of face frame. Calculate how many clamps you will need based on the size of your cabinet face frame.
3. What is the Recommended Distance Between Clamps?
Face frame clamps should be placed every 1 foot of the frame. One clamp can apply enough pressure to secure one foot of the area.
4. What is the Best Way To Achieve The Most Clamping Force?
The claws must be correctly positioned on the surface. Another option is to glue together a face frame cabinet with two claws instead of one.
5. What If I Just Use One Claw To Hold The Cabinets In Place?
You simply won’t be able to apply the essential pressure at the appropriate time. Furthermore, if you are just utilizing one claw, you are putting yourself at risk because any unintentional slide cannot be avoided.
6. How To Use Pony Cabinet Claw Face Frame Clamps?
Pony Cabinet Claw Face Frame Clamps is very easy to use. But for better reference, watch this video.
7. How To Use BESSEY Cabinet Face Frame Clamps?
To use BESSEY Cabinet Face Frame Clamps perfectly, you need two of them. For better reference, watch this video.
Conclusion
When installing face frame cabinets, cabinet claws are a must. You would not be disappointed with this buy because it has bi-directional clamping and a guide for drilling face frame screws. Here we have discussed 6 of the best cabinet face frame clamps available on the market. Hope his informative reviews will help you when buying the clamp for face frame cabinet installation.
