Sash clamp head timber

[paul24dual]

I need timber for my sash clamp heads (25mm) but what type of wood do i need? i was told that i need a beech but i was wondering if pine would be ok?
Thanks

 

[Random Orbital Bob]

beech is probably recommended because being a fairly straight grained hardwood it is typically stiff and not prone to bending when the clamping pressure winds up.

To be honest, though beech would be ideal (or oak etc) I've used pine numerous times in the past for table top glue-ups because its all I had and beech is expensive. Sometimes, the ideal solution isn't always the most practical. Make sure they're straight and a decent thickness and clamp both sides of the plane of the joints to prevent cupping and Im sure they'll be fine.

 

[Phil Pascoe]

Use 25mm sawn batten - if you bend it, you're probably doing something wrong.

 

[MMUK]

I normally use either 3x1 sawn or, if I don't have any, just 25mm tile lathe

 

[Benchwayze]

Paul..
If you have to use excessive force to pull up a joint, you are working too tight. Ease off the tenons a smidgeon. Cramps need just enough pressure to hold the glue-up until it's dry.