Vertical Plate Clamp 1760lbs 0.8T - Secure Plate Lifting Clamp

Our review of the Amarite Vertical Plate Clamp finds it best suited to workshops, fabrication shops and maintenance crews that need a dependable clamp for moving steel plates safely. The bottom line: this is a no-nonsense, heavy-duty plate lifting clamp built from one-piece forged carbon steel that handles up to 1760 lbs while offering a pre-tension and dual locking system to keep loads steady during lifts. For teams that value durability and a simple secure grip, this clamp delivers reliable performance across vertical, horizontal and sideways lifts.

Key Features

• Efficient multi-directional lifting: Designed to lift and transport steel plates from horizontal, vertical and sideways positions so one clamp covers many tasks.
• High load capacity: One-piece forged construction provides a rated capacity up to 0.8 tons (1760 lbs), suitable for common shop plate handling.
• Pre-tension mechanism: The clamp uses a pre-tension feature that reduces slipping when the lifting force is first applied and during lowering.
• Dual locking mechanism: Locks for both open and closed positions improve operator safety and prevent accidental release during handling.
• Articulated lifting shackle: The swivel-style shackle gives more flexible rigging angles and reduces twisting on lifts.
• Hardened contact limit: Intended for use on materials with surface hardness up to 30 RC (300 HB) to protect the clamp and the load.

Who It's For

The clamp is ideal for metal fabricators, maintenance crews and small industrial operations that regularly move plate steel and structural components and need a compact, strong tool that works in multiple orientations. Shops that prioritize long service life and a straightforward mechanical design will appreciate the one-piece forging and carbon steel construction.

It is not the best fit for precision lifting of delicate or finished surfaces where padding or vacuum-style lifters are required, and users who need to lift materials harder than 30 RC (300 HB) should look at alternative gripping methods or specialized clamps.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Solid build quality from one-piece forging that customers report as robust and reliable.
• Versatile use for vertical, horizontal and sideways lifts, reducing the need for multiple clamps.
• Safety-focused features including a pre-tension mechanism and dual locks that minimize slippage.
• Good value for money according to user feedback praising strength and durability.

Cons

• Limited to materials with surface hardness up to 30 RC (300 HB), so not suitable for very hardened plates.
• Jaw opening up to 0.6 in may be restrictive for thicker edge profiles or irregular scrap pieces.

Specifications

Brand	Amarite
Rated capacity	0.8 tons (1760 lbs)
Jaw opening	Up to 0.6 in
Construction	One-piece forged carbon steel
Suitable plate orientations	Vertical, horizontal and sideways
Surface hardness limit	Up to 30 RC (300 HB)
Safety features	Pre-tension mechanism and dual locking

Our Verdict

The Amarite Vertical Plate Clamp is a practical, heavy-duty tool for shops that need a dependable lifting clamp without complexity. With one-piece forging, dual locks and a pre-tension system it provides secure handling for steel plates up to 1760 lbs, making it a cost-effective choice for routine plate handling where surface hardness and jaw capacity fit the job.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum load capacity?
The clamp is rated to lift up to 0.8 tons (1760 lbs).

What plate thickness will it accept?
The jaw opening accepts material up to 0.6 in thick.

Can it be used on hardened steel?
It is recommended for materials with surface hardness up to 30 RC (300 HB); harder materials may damage the clamp.