Reply To: Harbor Freight Sash Clamps vs Silverline

They work good for cheap clamps. Though I’m not especially rough on mine, they are getting a little loose. Not really affecting function yet, but I’m thinking the rivets are going to fail eventually. Upside, lifetime replacement!

Definitely look at Paul Sellers’ retrofit video though, as it improves them greatly. They will flex a lot until you insert the wood, and potentially mar your work.

I bought a set of Dubuques when I could afford them, and like them a lot more. The HF ones are great for beginner/budget, but this is a case of “you get what you pay for.”

I will say, however, the Dubuque butterfly handles can get in the way in a cramped situation, whereas the HF sliding bar makes tightening much easier.