Hand screws are clamps used in woodworking and other industries. They consist of two wooden blocks with screws that are hand tightened to hold objects in place. They don’t damage surfaces and offer control over pressure. Proper use and maintenance are important for optimal performance.
Thumbscrews are a form of clamp designed to be tightened by hand with a set of screws. They are most commonly used in woodworking, although people in other industries may need them. Woodworking suppliers and hardware stores often stock hand screws, usually in a variety of sizes so people can assemble collections that offer different options. This type of clamp can be very handy to have around the shop.
The hand screw design includes two separate wooden blocks with holes. The screws attached to the knobs or handles for convenience are passed through the holes on both ends of the block. To use hand screws, people place blocks around the object to be clamped, then hand tighten the screws to bring the blocks together and hold them in place. Once the desired level of hold is achieved, the clamp will hold the object. Hand screws can be used for clamps to hold things while the glue sets and as clamps to lock objects in place while people work on them.
One reason hand screws are popular with woodworkers is that they don’t mar the surface of the objects they fasten. The blocks are large, distribute pressure rather than concentrate it in one place, and are smooth, so they won’t leave fingerprints in the material to be bonded. There is also a very high level of control over the pressure with hand screws that people can use to avoid common problems like accidentally splitting the wood by jamming it too tightly.
Using the hand screws requires some skill. It is imperative that the screws are fed evenly, otherwise the pressure will become uneven. Uneven pressure can cause the stuck object to slide or move. It’s also important to start with the blocks parallel to each other, because if they aren’t, you won’t be able to create even pressure.
Like other tools, hand screws work best when people take good care of them. Wooden blocks are usually made from strong wood that should withstand years of use, but they should still be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent warping and splitting. People may also find that it’s a good idea to periodically soap and oil the block with products designed to clean and oil wood. Screws are generally resistant to rust, but can still benefit from a light cleaning and occasional oiling to keep them running smoothly.
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