Clamp stand; a different approach *w/pics*

[Alan in Little Washington]

My Besseys have been getting in the way and needing a rack for a long time. I really got tired of lugging them across the shop so decided to build a rack for them- at least a prototype to test out my ideas.

First, I wanted a mobile rack- on casters- so I could bring all the clamps to the project/area where I need them.

Second, I thought about how I usually carry and hold the clamps. I usually grab the bar, not the tightening handle, and carry them jaws down. I carry them by the bar because I can pick up and carry 2 -3 clamps in each hand.

I hold them jaws down since I've had the adjustable jaw slide down the bar and pinch my hand. So, I decided the clamps should sit on the rack jaws down, actually rest on the top of the jaw rather than hanging from the jaws like almost all the clamp racks I've seen.

So here is what I came up with. This prototype is made from scrap 2 X 4's and MDF left over from my assembly table. The base measures 24" X 30." Each half of top of the base slopes toward the center at 6 deg. to ensure the clamps don't fall over or off the rack. I will likely add dividers near the top of the "A" frame assembly. The rack is currently loaded with 44 clamps (most purchased during the Bessey frenzy of two years ago) and include 4- 12", 14- 30", 20- 40", 2- 48", and 2- 56" clamps but as built can hold up to 64 clamps of various sizes. I loaded the clamps facing the opposite direction on the back side so the bars do not interfere with clamps from the other side. Once loaded the rack is heavy. It rolls ok with Hartville Tool casters. You can see the other details in the pics. I will use it this way for awhile to see how it works out before I make a new and improved version.

The base:



Checking the angle and height for the rest.



Dados cut in the base top for the lower dividers. Base top and rest attached.



Dividers installed, casters attached, and loaded with 44 clamps.



An end view.



Close-up of the lower part. I'll likely add some end pieces here.



Close-up of the upper part showing staggered bars. I'll likely add dividers to keep the bars from sliding sideways.

[McRabbet]

I love it -- excellent use of the KISS principle!

Rob

[woodguy1975]

That is a definite simple solution. I like it!

[toolferone]

Well thought out! It makes a lot of sense.

[clowman]

I like the idea, but I have a question. How easy/hard is it to hit the top of the bars and have them fall off?

[NCPete]

Really neat idea! I am shocked no one has yet added a 'You Suck' for all the clamps you have. I have clamp envy!

[Gofor]

I was thinkin' more on the lines that a fine new stand like that deserves brand new clamps. Of course I would be happy to provide a home to the old ones!!

(Yeah, I guess its more a double "You Suck" for both the new stand and all the pretty clamps, which by the way, seem to be suffering from lack of use, cause they don't even have fingerprints on 'em, much less gluey handprints on the handles, and they really need to be exercised more and I really could help do that and I guess my envy is showing, too!!)

[skeeter]

Nice rack. I like the design!!

[Monty]

Definitely an original design - looks like it works great! This design will surely win you a nice prize from one of the WW rags... pick which one is offering the prize you want, and submit it to that one!

Not only do I have clamp envy, I wish I had a shop big enough to have to roll my clamps around! When I need a clamp, I'm generally 1½-2 steps away from my wall-mounted clamp rack at all times!!!

[D L Ames]

Wow, another cool shop idea Alan. I really like your design and can see how it would really free up some wall space.

D L

[sapwood]

Another "Innovation by Alan"! And as Insom suggested, you need to submit some of these clever ideas for potential "rewards".

Well engineered down to the box joints on the base

Sapwood

[Dutchman]

Wow, I feel a little out of date with my old bar clamps hanging on the wall. You must have cleaned out the Bessey dealer.

[lwhughes149]

I am not looking at the holder, I can't take my eyes off the clamps. Seriously, it is a good idea. A little big for my shop so I guess I will just keep going across the room to take my clamps off the nails but the idea you have works great.
I like the box joints too.

[Ozzie-x]

Yes, I would have never seen the rack for all the clamps ! Nice rack, simple, well constructed, sturdy. In my spastication, I would probably be knocking them over though. Might simply put a couple of bungee cords around them to hold them in place.

[Ken Weaver]

Nicely done - good thinking!