These clamps are awesome! I was a bit skeptical after reading some conflicting reviews about the Automaxx feature. For this reason I bought 2 Premium Kreg Face Clips WITHOUT Automaxx just to make sure I have 2 clips that at least work fine. Now I'd happily spend the extra $20 and get the other two at Automaxx. The Automaxx feature removes the thread tensioner that typically protrudes from a single clamp handle. The mechanism in this clamp automatically adjusts to the thickness you are working with and clamps with a predetermined tension. Tension is adjusted with a small dial, turn one way to increase tension and the other way to decrease tension. And this dial is sensitive in the sense that a small turn significantly affects the clamping force. So you can take a piece of material, say 3/4 inch, and clamp it. Adjust the screw to achieve the desired clamping pressure and you're done. Now you clamp with the same force every time, whether the material is 1/2" or 1-1/2" clamped. No more settings or adjustments. Excellent! These rectangular clips are like an extra pair of hands. a rectangular clip and literally holds everything in place while I install the pocket screws. There is sometimes a bit of slippage when cocking, which I read about in some reviews and was a bit concerned. But that can happen with any clamp. The best place to clamp is where one or the other piece does not slip. You will find this in the clamp you use and it just becomes second nature with every clamp. I installed the pocket screws and they sat SECURELY in place when stood up, not unstable at all. This is my first pocket hole project and I often work alone. Having two of these clamps on hand is like having a second person to help you and an extra pair of hands while you work. The only problem I have with these clamps is that you have to open them fully when releasing the clamp. This is a kind of "restart" mechanism for the next bracket. If this is not the case, the contact pressure is not quite as it should be. But I don't really care. In most cases, when I detach them from material, they open completely automatically. And if not, then I do it out of habit. Hope that helps.