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I was going to buy a box of a bunch of mini spring clamps for kerfing, but they're only 2 inches and their throat depth is 3/4". Would I be better off with some larger Pony's? What's the minimum opening and depth I will need for an archtop build?

Should work unless you have way thick linings

http://www.amazon.com/100-Pc-Mini-Spring-Clamps/dp/B0009T65OM/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&s=hi&qid=1202449631&sr=8-6

if these are the spring clamps you are referring to (or similar), i just received a box of 100. i tested them on a scrap side and they fit fine. i was using a reverse kerf lining. im not sure how they would work with traditional traingular linings. i need to find something thin enough to stick between the clamp and the lining so they dont leave dents. they are too small to use two linings the way lance k does it. maybe some card stock or something. to answer your question: yes, they will fit. and you can not beat the price. they have great prices on larger clamps also. hope that helps.

http://www.hobbytool.com/

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sweat the small stuff.

also, here is a link to a thread a little while back on liners. you can use just about anything.

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sweat the small stuff.

oops... http://luthiersforum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=10102&t=15228&hilit=mini+spring+clamps

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sweat the small stuff.

Jack, with reversed-kerf lining they should be OK, it depends on how strong the spring is. For triangular linings you will have to make small cauls, or buy other clamps, as the tip of the clamp won't reach the bottom of the linings with enough pressure.

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Laurent Brondel
West Paris, Maine - USA
http://www.laurentbrondel.com/