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The Amazon Basics adjustable metal face clamps are small screw clamps with a 3 inch jaw reach and swivel pads, sold as a 2-pack per the listing. They are handy for holding sheet metal, small fixtures and woodworking glue-ups, but they are light-duty. For heavy fit-up or pulling a joint tight, use locking pliers or a welding clamp.
They suit hobby and benchtop tasks; check the listing for the pack size and jaw capacity.
Amazon Basics Metal Face Clamps at a Glance
| Item | Per the listing |
|---|---|
| Type | Adjustable screw (face) clamp |
| Jaw reach | 3 inches, per the listing |
| Maximum opening | About 2-3/4 inches, per the listing |
| Construction | Alloy steel and plastic, per the listing |
| Weight | About 1.8 lb as listed (confirm if that is the pair) |
| Grip | Thumb-screw knob with swivel pads, per the listing |
| Pack | 2-pack, per the listing; confirm on the current page |
Who Should Buy Them
- Hobby welders who need extra hands for tack-up on light sheet metal.
- Woodworkers and DIYers who need small clamps for glue-ups and fixtures.
- Anyone who wants clamps that will not mar softer surfaces thanks to the swivel pads.
Skip them if
- You need to pull warped plate together or hold heavy fit-up.
- You weld close to the clamp. Spatter and heat can damage plastic parts and pads.
- You need deep reach. A 3 inch reach is limited.
Tips for Welding Use
- Keep clamps away from the arc; heat and spatter can damage plastic parts.
- Clamp on the cooler side of the joint and check the work stays square after tacking.
- Do not rely on these clamps to hold a part while you grind; use a vise or a heavier clamp.
- For heavy work, switch to locking-pliers clamps or dedicated welding clamps.
Pros and Limitations
Pros
- Compact and light.
- Swivel pads protect surfaces and sit flat on angled parts.
- Quick thumb-screw adjustment.
Limitations
- Light-duty clamping force.
- Plastic parts are vulnerable to heat and spatter.
- Limited reach compared with C-clamps and bar clamps.
Alternatives
C-clamps and locking pliers hold harder and tolerate heat better. Magnetic squares are quicker for angles, and bar clamps cover wider spans. See the clamp roundups below.
Related reading: Akolafe C-clamps set review | Heavy-duty C-clamp review | Bar clamps 4-pack review
Frequently Asked Questions
How big are the Amazon Basics adjustable metal face clamps?
The listing gives a 3 inch jaw reach and about 2-3/4 inches maximum opening. Confirm on the current listing.
Are they good for welding?
They are fine for holding light sheet metal during tack-up, but keep them away from spatter and heat. Use locking pliers or welding clamps for heavy fit-up.
Are they heavy-duty?
No. They are light-duty clamps for benchtop work, not for high clamping force.
What do the swivel pads do?
They let the jaw sit flat on angled surfaces and protect the work from marks.
What is the return policy?
Amazon return terms apply and can change. Check the current listing for details.
The Bottom Line
These clamps are a cheap, handy addition for benchtop and light tack-up work. Buy them as supplements to stronger clamps, not as your only welding clamps.
