Bessey EHK Trigger Clamp Gives Your Hands the Break They’ve Needed
We use clamps nearly every day and own a wide variety. To get a vise-like grip with a clamp is a pain in the neck. Well, pain in the hand, really. Of all the trigger clamps we use, that hand strain is the one constant. After switching over to Bessey EHK trigger clamp models, it’s now a pain in the past.
Pros
- Super-comfortable trigger compared to other clamps
- Outstanding clamping force
- Easily converts to spreader jaws without the need for additional tools
- Removable no-mar jaw pads
Cons
- No major drawbacks
Recommendation
The Bessey EHK trigger clamp is simply a better bar clamp. Its combination of handle comfort and strength makes it the one we reach for every time. Sure, it runs more than the cheap clamps out there, but it’s worth every penny.
Bessey EHK Trigger Clamp: Familiar Design, Better Execution
Clamping Down
At first glance, each of the Bessey EHK trigger clamp models we brought in look similar to many other bar clamps. But the first time we put our hands on the trigger, we could tell these weren’t your ordinary clamps.
The handles are much more comfortable than any other bar clamp we own. The addition of an overmold on both trigger pieces makes all the difference.
It’s even more pronounced when you need to really clamp down. We have 12-inch and 18-inch EHK XL models that have 600 pounds of clamping force. When you squeeze down at that level, the overmold provides cushioning that protects your hands from any rough or sharp edges. It also helps you get a better grip.
We’re able to get more clamping force with one hand than our other clamps, too. Part of that is surely the fact that the handles aren’t as hard on our hands. It also feels like the clamping mechanism is easier to get some muscle behind, making for an overall better experience.
Both jaws come with non-marring pads. You can remove or replace them if you like.
Releasing the Tension
Each Bessey EHK trigger clamp has its release on the inside of the trigger. With the XL models, they’re metal and don’t have an overmold. However, it’s pretty easy to release the clamp with the press of your thumb, even when you clamp it to the max.
Of course, you can use the same release to let the moving jaw slide freely when you’re setting it as well.
Pushing Back
Making the switch from a Bessey EHK trigger clamp to trigger spreader is very easy and doesn’t require any tools. Push the big red button in the fixed jaw with your thumb (the side with no screws in it). That unlocks the jaw and you just switch it to the opposite side of the bar and lock it back in place. It literally takes about 5 seconds.
Bessey EHK Trigger Clamp Options
Micro Series: $8.50
- Clamping Capacity: 4-1/2 inches
- Throat Depth: 1-5/8 inches
- Clamping Force: 40 pounds
M Series: $12.00 – $14.99
- Clamping Capacity: 6 or 12 inches
- Throat Depth: 2-3/8 inches
- Clamping Force: 100 pounds
L Series: $16.99 – $26.99
- Clamping Capacity: 6, 12, 18, 24, or 36 inches
- Throat Depth: 3-1/8 inches
- Clamping Force: 300 pounds
XL Series (tested): $26.99 – $36.99
- Clamping Capacity: 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, or 50 inches
- Throat Depth: 3-5/8 inches
- Clamping Force: 600 pounds
The Bottom Line
The Bessey EHK trigger clamp is simply a better bar clamp. Its combination of handle comfort and strength makes it the one we reach for every time. Sure, it runs more than the cheap clamps out there, but it’s worth every penny.
