Is malleable cast iron on for clamps?

[Andrew Hughes]

I can say without reservation that black pipe clamps hurt equally as a large F clamp when I drop one on my foot. The small quick clamps are too bad.

[Wes Grass]

As Jerry has noted ... I think it makes a 'no never mind' whether you use black gas pipe, or galvanized water pipe. But if you REALLY care, you can order Stainless Steel from McMaster.

Avoid Titanium, it's too flexy ;-)

[Bill Dufour]

Aluminum pipe is a poor choice. I had some and it quickly nicked and scored so the clamps had a hard time gripping or even sliding along to get into position the nicks were so bad and lumpy.
Bill D

[Doug Garson]

I can say without reservation that black pipe clamps hurt equally as a large F clamp when I drop one on my foot. The small quick clamps are too bad.

I think the best ones for dropping on your foot are the small plastic spring clamps.