Very easy to use, very easy to turn into a spreader and connect the two together. These Jorgensen clamps practice and maintain clamping force, they don't lose the tension you applied the last time you squeeze. All power is transferred to the ratchet and is not lost when the trigger is released. The release is not binding or requires the use of both hands. The pads are well integrated and try not to slip at all. Snapping together, which is what they're designed for, provides a secure clamp and doesn't feel like a gizmo at all. I used mine to hold the straight edge of the sheet of drywall while I cut it without slipping. I also used one of these to crush the heavy cardboard box they were in. None of them are intended for their intended use, but they showed me that these 6" clamps are already superior to my Irwin 12 clamps in every way, which is important to me.