Pronunciation: [hˈandskɹuː] (IPA) 
The word "Handscrew" is spelled with an "s" in the middle, not a "c." This may be confusing because the pronunciation of the word includes a "k" sound. The IPA transcription for "handscrew" is /ˈhændskruː/. The "k" sound is represented by the "k" symbol, while the "s" sound is represented by the "s" symbol. It's important to pay attention to the spelling of words, especially when they don't match their pronunciation.
A handscrew is a type of clamp that is typically made of two wooden jaws or blocks held together with a threaded rod and a pair of handles on the outside. It is designed to firmly hold materials together during woodworking and other similar applications. The jaws of a handscrew are shaped in a way that allows them to clamp onto a variety of shapes, making it a versatile tool in the workshop.
The handscrew works by turning the handles, which in turn tightens or loosens the jaws. The threaded rod connects the two jaws and provides the necessary pressure to securely hold the materials in place. The handles are usually rounded and comfortable to grip, allowing the user to easily adjust the clamping force.
Handscrews are frequently used for tasks such as gluing boards together, creating sturdy and precise angles, or securing workpieces during sanding or sawing. They are especially handy when working with irregularly shaped pieces or delicate materials that could be damaged by other types of clamps.
Due to their simple and effective design, handscrews have been used in woodworking for centuries, and are still widely used today. They are valued for their reliability and versatility, often appearing in both professional workshops and hobbyist tool collections.
The word "handscrew" is derived from the combination of "hand" and "screw". The term originated in the early 18th century, where it referred to a type of portable clamping device that could be operated by hand. The handscrew consisted of two wooden jaws attached to threaded rods, which could be tightened or loosened by turning a pair of handles. It provided a versatile and practical solution for temporarily holding or clamping together two pieces of wood during woodworking or other craft activities. Over time, the word "handscrew" became widely adopted to describe this specific type of clamp due to its characteristic operation by hand.
