It’s the simple things that bring us the most joy. For woodworkers who often wear out their thumbs on bar and pipe clamps during glue-ups, the EZ-Clutch quick-release system is a windfall of happiness.

The devices resemble oversize bottle openers, and they are about as simple to use. Just slip one over the clutch plate of a clamp, and get to work. The lever is easy to grip and makes sliding and releasing the clamp pain free.

The EZ-Clutch is available in two designs: one for 3/4-in. Sure-Foot and Pony pipe clamps and another for standard 3700 bar clamps (Jorgensen).

Although both systems work well, I found that the bar-clamp version was even more comfortable and convenient because of the orientation of the clamp handle to the lever.

Tom McKenna is an associate editor.

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