Using the DFC500

[Doug S]

I do seem to use my Dominos differently to most people.

When using the 500 I wrap my hand around the handle just behind the switch and kind of push against the part where the main body steps down in size to form the handle, I don't grip the handle tightly just kind of push with the side of my hand. I tried the pushing from the back thing but to me it feels like the further back you are the more chance there is of making it tip.

My 700 I don't hold the handle but push from the very back with the heel of my hand, my fingers kind of underneath the handle but not really doing anything. The handle on the 700 feels wrong for me to hold when plunging as it's not in line with the cutter.

When I had a play with the cordless 500 I just instinctively pushed on the back of the handle as I do with my 700.

 

[ChuckS]

You definitely aren't alone in how you handle the DF500 and DF700 as I've seen that on YouTube. Hand size, arm/wrist strength and physical body strength really are a big factor here.

One time, I needed clamping assistance, I summoned the help of one of my neighbors (6'-ish and 180 pounds in his very early 50s). He could still turn every clamp handle after I thought it couldn't be tightened any further. So, all my impression about the DF700 being too heavy (for prolonged use) and hard to plunge may be non-existent to someone who is in their 30s or 40s.

 

[luvmytoolz]

You definitely aren't alone in how you handle the DF500 and DF700 as I've seen that on YouTube. Hand size, arm/wrist strength and physical body strength really are a big factor here.

One time, I needed clamping assistance, I summoned the help of one of my neighbors (6'-ish and 180 pounds in his very early 50s). He could still turn every clamp handle after I thought it couldn't be tightened any further. So, all my impression about the DF700 being too heavy (for prolonged use) and hard to plunge may be non-existent to someone who is in their 30s or 40s.

You probably wouldn't like my panel clamps then, they're about 14kg each! ;-)

So the DF700 doesn't seem all that heavy to me then. I find it is easier to operate by putting most of the power into keeping the fence handle rigid on the material, and just support the end enough to maintain the control when plunging.

 

[ChuckS]

14kg!

My go-to clamps are now the Dubuque. If I started fresh again, I would just buy once, cry once and get everything Dubuque in place of the Bessey K Body or similar clamps.

Btw, when seniors buy them, they should be entilted to a discount!

 

[ReneS]

14kg!

My go-to clamps are now the Dubuque. If I started fresh again, I would just buy once, cry once and get everything Dubuque in place of the Bessey K Body or similar clamps.

Btw, when seniors buy them, they should be entilted to a discount!

I know these clamps get a lot of praise. They get a lot of compliments from one of the YouTube channels I respect, and because of that I bought a pair.

But honestly, I find them awkward to use when gluing up cabinet parts, like panels, rails, and stiles to make up the sides. I muchly prefer K body clamps, and have a number of the Bessy Junior Ks (I think that is what they are called). I also use DeWalt trigger clamps of different sizes.

The main issue with the Dubuques, as I recall, is being able to stand the assemblies up and otherwise position them in different ways when doing glue ups. I honestly don't remember the details since it has been a year since I tried to use them. I just find the K body clamps easier to position, manipulate, move around, etc.

But my sense is that I am in the minority.

 

[ChuckS]

I don't recall experiencing the standing problem you mentioned. But, that could be possible because the Dubuque clamps don't have large and flat ends.

 

[luvmytoolz]

14kg!

My go-to clamps are now the Dubuque. If I started fresh again, I would just buy once, cry once and get everything Dubuque in place of the Bessey K Body or similar clamps.

Btw, when seniors buy them, they should be entilted to a discount!

The Dubuque's I've always thought look to be fantastic clamps, but are pretty much unobtanium here in OZ, and 30 or so years ago when I bought my panel clamps they would have been unheard of here. I have a cheapo set that looks very similar but made in thin aluminium extrusion, so they're only good for very light work.

What I like about the Frontline clamps I use is they encompass the panel on both edges and faces, so very fast glue ups and no need for cauls or extra alternating clamps. And to address the mobility aspect, I can use them in their trolley stand to move it around, or simply stand against a wall.

As you say though, whatever clamps you buy, definitely buy once cry once really makes a difference long term in the results and time and labour savings!

Just did a bit of searching and there's a seller here in OZ selling the 900mm Dubuque's for $125: https://www.pasadenatools.com.au/bar-clamp-36-inch-900mm.html

 

[ChuckS]

Just did a bit of searching and there's a seller here in OZ selling the 900mm Dubuque's for $125: https://www.pasadenatools.com.au/bar-clamp-36-inch-900mm.html

That's $30 US more than that is sold here in Canada for the 36" length, based on Lee Valley's price (where I got all my Dubuques (which are 24" and 36"))!