A workshop can never have too many cramps. That's been my personal excuse for amassing a veritable arsenal of the things over the years. However I can always find space for another, especially if they offer something new to attract my attention. So it was I stumbled apon the Kliklamp from Bessey, a Canadian tool manufacturer I have to confess I have never come across before.
Classed as a lever clamp, the Kliklamp comes in five sizes 160, 200, 250, 300 and 400mm, and has a throat depth of 80mm.
Even before removing the packaging the build quality was obvious. Made from Magnesium the Kliklamp is able to exert a force of up to 1,200N or 260lbs, yet the small cramp only weighs in at 260g. The Vibrafix ratchet mechanism that holds the pressure on the jaws is vibration proof, making it a great cramp to use on machinery. After witnessing a G cramp work loose on a spindle, and get all 'mixed up' with the rotating cutter block, I'm sold on vibration proof cramping.
Although it doesn't call itself a one handed cramp, I did find with a bit of practice I could attach it single handedly, its light weight being a real advantage. The trigger pressure handle feels positive and robust to use. And when releasing the cramp you don't get the nasty kick back which seems to be a standard feature on many others.
The jaw pad on the trigger is pivoted, enabling it to have the ability to grip angled or uneven surfaces.
Overall I found this strong well built little cramp a useful addition to the workshop. I just hope this will be my last clamp purchase for sometime, Maybe I should start looking for something new to collect like ties?
