- Stock: In Stock
- Brand: FESTOOL
- Model: FES491594 358827
- Weight: 0.58kg
- Dimensions: 270.00cm x 145.00cm x 50.00cm
- SKU: FES491594
- UPC: 4014549012543
Festool FS-HZ 160 Lever Clamp – 160mm Quick-Action Guide Rail and MFT Clamp
At a Glance: Professional Festool FS-HZ 160 quick-action lever clamp featuring a 160mm clamping width, robust solid steel construction and an innovative lever-operated locking mechanism. Designed for secure, vibration-resistant fastening of Festool guide rails, workpieces on MFT multifunction tables and compatible semi-stationary machinery. Offers convenient one-handed operation and clamping speeds up to five times faster than conventional Festool fastening clamps. An essential accessory for precision sawing, routing, sanding and workshop applications.
Get a firm grip on precision with the Festool FS-HZ 160 Lever Clamp. Designed to integrate seamlessly with Festool&s professional guide rail and multifunction table systems, this high-quality quick-action clamp combines impressive holding performance, rapid operation and outstanding versatility. Whether securing a guide rail for an accurate plunge cut, fastening a workpiece to an MFT multifunction table or stabilising material during workshop operations, the FS-HZ 160 makes clamping faster, easier and more dependable.
One of the outstanding advantages of the FS-HZ 160 is its innovative lever-operated clamping mechanism. Unlike conventional screw-operated fastening clamps that require repeated turning to tighten or release, the FS-HZ 160 uses a convenient lever mechanism for quick adjustment and secure locking. According to Festool, this design allows clamping operations to be completed up to five times faster than with conventional fastening clamps, helping professionals save valuable time during repetitive cutting and assembly tasks.
The clamp is also designed for comfortable one-handed operation, allowing the user to secure a guide rail or workpiece while keeping the other hand available for positioning and alignment. This practical advantage is especially valuable when working with large panels, long guide rails or components that require precise positioning before fastening.
Engineered with a 160mm clamping width, the FS-HZ 160 provides a versatile working capacity for securing guide rails and suitable workpieces. Its specially designed clamping profile fits into the underside groove of compatible Festool FS guide rails, allowing the rail to be secured without obstructing the upper running surface used by the saw or router.
The clamp is equally at home with the Festool MFT 3 multifunction table and compatible mobile workshop systems, where it can be used to secure workpieces for accurate sawing, routing, sanding and other operations. Its compatibility with selected Festool semi-stationary machines further extends its versatility, making it a valuable accessory for workshops that use several different Festool systems.
Manufactured in a robust solid steel version, the FS-HZ 160 is designed to withstand demanding professional use. The lever locking mechanism provides a secure hold that is highly resistant to loosening under vibration, making it particularly suitable for applications involving powered machinery where stable workpiece positioning is essential.
From furniture manufacturing and cabinetmaking to site installation and precision woodworking, the Festool FS-HZ 160 delivers the speed, convenience and secure clamping performance that professionals expect from the Festool system.
The Festool FS-HZ 160 is a professional lever-operated clamp developed specifically for the Festool guide rail, multifunction table and compatible machine systems. Its unique clamping profile integrates with designated grooves and mounting arrangements, providing a secure connection without the inconvenience of conventional external clamping methods.
The lever mechanism allows rapid locking and release, with Festool specifying clamping speeds of up to five times faster than conventional fastening clamps. This makes the FS-HZ 160 particularly useful for repetitive operations where guide rails or workpieces must frequently be repositioned.
Its robust solid steel construction and vibration-resistant locking characteristics help provide the stability required for accurate cutting, routing, sanding and other demanding workshop applications.
Product Highlights
- Original Festool lever clamp: Professional quick-action clamp engineered for seamless integration with compatible Festool guide rail, multifunction table and machinery systems.
- 160mm clamping width: Provides a practical working capacity for securing guide rails and suitable workpieces.
- Up to five times faster clamping: Festool&s lever mechanism enables significantly faster operation compared with conventional screw-operated fastening clamps.
- Convenient one-handed operation: Allows the operator to position and secure guide rails or workpieces quickly and efficiently.
- Vibration-resistant locking: The lever mechanism is designed to maintain a secure hold in demanding machine environments.
- Solid steel construction: Robust professional design provides strength and durability for regular workshop and installation use.
- Guide rail groove compatibility: Specially shaped clamping interface fits the underside groove of compatible Festool guide rails.
- Unobstructed guide rail operation: Secures the guide rail from below, helping keep the upper running surface clear for guided machinery.
- Festool MFT integration: Suitable for securing compatible workpieces and accessories on Festool multifunction tables.
- Mobile workshop compatibility: Designed for use with compatible Festool mobile workshop clamping arrangements.
- Semi-stationary machine applications: Suitable for compatible clamping arrangements on Festool CS 50/70 and KS/KSC 60 systems.
- Rapid release and repositioning: Convenient lever action helps reduce interruptions when adjusting workpieces or moving guide rails.
- Versatile professional use: Ideal for precision sawing, routing, sanding, woodworking and assembly applications.
Product Compatibility
The Festool FS-HZ 160 lever clamp is designed to work with compatible Festool guide rails, multifunction tables, mobile workshop systems and selected semi-stationary machines.
- Festool FS/2 Guide Rails: Fits into the compatible underside clamping groove to secure the guide rail firmly to the workpiece or supporting surface.
- Festool Cross-Cutting Guide Rails: Suitable for securing compatible cross-cutting guide rail arrangements where the designated clamping interface is provided.
- Festool MFT 3 Multifunction Table: Designed for secure workpiece fastening using the appropriate MFT clamping arrangements.
- Festool Mobile Workshop: Compatible with suitable Festool mobile workshop systems featuring the appropriate clamping facilities.
- Festool CS 50: Suitable for securing sections and components using the compatible clamping arrangements of the PRECISIO CS 50 system.
- Festool CS 70: Suitable for compatible clamping and securing applications on the PRECISIO CS 70 system.
- Festool KS 60: Can be used for securing suitable workpieces or sections with compatible KAPEX KS 60 clamping arrangements.
- Festool KSC 60: Suitable for compatible workpiece-securing applications with the cordless KAPEX KSC 60 system.
Additional applications: The FS-HZ 160 may also be used with other suitable workholding arrangements that accept its clamping profile and fall within the specified clamping capacity.
Important Compatibility Information
The Festool FS-HZ 160 is designed around the specific clamping grooves and workholding arrangements used in compatible Festool systems. It is not a universal replacement for every conventional G-clamp, F-clamp or machine clamp.
Clamping capacity: The manufacturer specifies a 160mm clamping width. Ensure the material thickness and intended clamping arrangement fall within the suitable working range.
Guide rail compatibility: Confirm that the guide rail has the appropriate underside clamping groove before use.
Machine compatibility: When securing components on Festool semi-stationary machinery, follow the relevant machine operating instructions and use only the designated clamping positions.
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Features
- Quick-action lever mechanism: Enables rapid clamping and releasing without repeatedly turning a threaded screw handle.
- 160mm clamping width: Provides suitable capacity for a wide range of guide rail and workpiece fastening tasks.
- One-handed clamping: Allows the user to secure a workpiece or guide rail while maintaining control of positioning with the other hand.
- Vibration-resistant locking: Designed to resist loosening caused by vibration during normal machine operation.
- Solid steel construction: Robust clamping components provide dependable strength and durability.
- Festool-compatible clamping profile: Designed to engage with designated guide rail grooves and compatible machine interfaces.
- Guide rail underside mounting: Helps maintain unobstructed movement of compatible tools along the guide rail.
- Rapid workpiece repositioning: Lever release allows convenient adjustment between successive operations.
- Multi-system compatibility: Designed for Festool guide rails, MFT multifunction tables, mobile workshop systems and suitable semi-stationary machines.
- Professional workholding accessory: Suitable for workshop, furniture manufacturing, cabinetry, installation and woodworking applications.
Benefits
- Faster working: The lever mechanism enables clamping operations up to five times faster than conventional Festool fastening clamps under comparable conditions.
- Greater convenience: One-handed operation simplifies workpiece positioning and makes the clamp easier to use during repetitive tasks.
- Improved cutting accuracy: Secure guide rail positioning reduces the risk of unwanted movement during guided cutting operations.
- Reliable workpiece stability: Vibration-resistant clamping helps maintain secure fastening during suitable machining operations.
- Reduced setup time: Quick locking and release simplify repeated adjustments and workpiece changes.
- Versatile workshop use: One clamp can serve several compatible Festool systems and applications.
- Efficient guide rail fastening: Underside mounting allows the guide rail&s upper running surface to remain accessible.
- Durable professional performance: Solid steel construction is designed to withstand frequent clamping operations.
- Improved workflow: Faster setup and repositioning allow more time to be spent on accurate cutting, routing and assembly.
- Better material control: Secure fastening helps keep components correctly aligned during workshop operations.
Application
- Securing Festool FS/2 guide rails to workpieces.
- Fastening compatible cross-cutting guide rails.
- Holding guide rails in position for precision plunge cutting.
- Securing workpieces on Festool MFT 3 multifunction tables.
- Workholding on compatible Festool mobile workshop systems.
- Securing suitable workpieces during routing operations.
- Holding material during sanding and surface preparation.
- Stabilising components for accurate drilling and assembly.
- Securing sections on compatible Festool CS 50 and CS 70 machines.
- Workpiece fastening with compatible Festool KS 60 and KSC 60 systems.
- Cabinetmaking and furniture manufacturing.
- Kitchen installation and professional joinery.
- Precision woodworking and panel processing.
- Repetitive clamping tasks requiring fast adjustment.
- General workshop and installation work using suitable clamping interfaces.
Extra Information
- Manufacturer designation: FS-HZ 160.
- Product category: Lever clamp for guide rails and multifunction tables.
- Clamping width: 160mm.
- Operating mechanism: Quick-action lever-operated locking system.
- Construction: Solid steel version.
- Operation: Convenient one-handed clamping.
- Clamping speed: Up to five times faster than conventional Festool fastening clamps, according to the manufacturer.
- Vibration resistance: Lever locking mechanism designed to resist loosening under vibration.
- Guide rail attachment: Compatible underside guide rail clamping groove.
- Primary systems: Festool FS/2 guide rails, MFT 3, mobile workshop and compatible semi-stationary machinery.
- Primary purpose: Secure fastening of guide rails, workpieces and compatible machine components.
- Quantity: One lever clamp.
What Is a Festool Lever Clamp?
A Festool lever clamp is a quick-action workholding accessory designed to secure compatible guide rails, workpieces and machine components without the repeated screw adjustment associated with traditional fastening clamps.
The FS-HZ 160 uses a manually operated lever mechanism to engage and release the clamping force. This makes it particularly effective where a guide rail or workpiece must be secured quickly and repositioned frequently.
Its specially shaped interface is designed to integrate with designated Festool clamping grooves and compatible workholding systems, providing a secure and convenient connection.
What Makes the FS-HZ 160 Different from a Conventional Screw Clamp?
Traditional screw-operated fastening clamps typically require the operator to rotate a threaded handle repeatedly to generate or release clamping pressure.
The Festool FS-HZ 160 uses a lever-operated mechanism that allows significantly faster engagement and release.
Festool specifies that the lever mechanism can provide up to five times faster clamping compared with conventional fastening clamps. This is particularly useful during repetitive production work, guide rail repositioning and frequent workpiece changes.
Another important difference is the clamp&s resistance to vibration-related loosening, helping maintain a stable hold in suitable machine applications.
Why Is One-Handed Operation Important?
When positioning a guide rail or securing a workpiece, the operator often needs to hold the material in its correct position while engaging the clamp.
The FS-HZ 160 is designed for one-handed operation, allowing the user to operate the clamping lever with one hand while using the other to maintain alignment or support the material.
This can simplify the setup process, particularly when handling long guide rails, large panels or workpieces requiring precise alignment.
It also makes repeated clamping operations more convenient and reduces unnecessary adjustments during routine workshop tasks.
How Does the FS-HZ 160 Work with Festool Guide Rails?
Compatible Festool FS guide rails feature a specially designed groove on their underside for attaching suitable clamping accessories.
The FS-HZ 160 is inserted into this groove and positioned where the guide rail requires fastening. The clamp can then be operated to secure the rail against the workpiece or supporting surface.
Because the attachment is made through the underside groove, the clamp does not need to obstruct the upper guide rail surface used by compatible saws and routing equipment.
This arrangement supports accurate cutting and convenient guide rail positioning while helping maintain an unobstructed machine travel path.
Why Is Vibration-Resistant Clamping Important?
Powered woodworking machinery can generate vibration during cutting, routing and other operations. If a clamp loosens during use, the workpiece or guide rail may move, affecting both machining accuracy and operator safety.
The FS-HZ 160 incorporates a lever mechanism specifically designed to resist vibration-related loosening.
This characteristic makes the clamp particularly useful in compatible machine environments where maintaining a firm, consistent hold is important.
Although the mechanism provides vibration-resistant locking, the clamp must still be installed correctly and checked before operation.
What Is the Festool MFT System?
The Festool MFT multifunction table is a versatile workholding and machining platform designed to support accurate cutting, routing, sanding, assembly and other workshop applications.
The system uses precisely positioned workholding facilities and compatible accessories to help secure materials during machining.
The FS-HZ 160 integrates with suitable MFT clamping arrangements, allowing the user to secure workpieces quickly without relying exclusively on conventional external clamps.
This is especially useful in furniture workshops, cabinetmaking operations and professional installation environments where workpieces frequently need to be repositioned.
Understanding the 160mm Clamping Width
The specified 160mm clamping width identifies the manufacturer&s nominal clamping capacity for the FS-HZ 160.
This determines the range of suitable material thicknesses or clamping arrangements that can be accommodated by the clamp.
The effective usable capacity depends on the workpiece, the guide rail or machine interface and the way the clamp is positioned.
Always ensure the clamp engages securely and that the workpiece is properly supported before beginning any machining operation.
Why Choose Solid Steel Construction?
Workholding accessories must withstand repeated tightening, releasing and repositioning while maintaining dependable mechanical performance.
The Festool FS-HZ 160 is manufactured in a solid steel version, providing the strength and durability required for frequent professional clamping operations.
This robust construction makes it suitable for regular workshop and installation work, including applications where a reliable hold is essential for accurate machining.
Understanding the FS-HZ 160 Designation
FS: Identifies the Festool guide rail system accessory family.
HZ: Festool designation for the lever clamp configuration.
160: Indicates the nominal clamping width of 160mm.
491594: Official Festool manufacturer part number.
Pro Tips
- Use two clamps for longer guide rails: When practical, secure both ends of a long guide rail to minimise the risk of unwanted movement during cutting or routing.
- Check the clamping groove: Ensure the underside groove of the guide rail is clean and free from sawdust or debris before inserting the clamp.
- Position the clamp before locking: Slide the clamp into the required position and confirm that the guide rail is correctly aligned before applying clamping pressure.
- Take advantage of one-handed operation: Use one hand to maintain rail or workpiece alignment while operating the lever with the other.
- Check for secure engagement: Before starting a saw or router, confirm that the lever is fully engaged and that the guide rail or workpiece cannot move.
- Avoid unnecessary force: The lever mechanism is designed for secure clamping. Do not extend the lever or use additional tools to force it beyond its intended operating range.
- Protect delicate surfaces: Use suitable protective packing between the clamp and sensitive workpiece surfaces where appropriate.
- Keep the mechanism clean: Remove accumulated dust, resin and workshop debris to maintain smooth lever operation.
- Inspect the clamp regularly: Check for bent components, worn contact surfaces or damage to the locking mechanism before use.
- Use the appropriate clamping arrangement: When working with an MFT or semi-stationary machine, follow the manufacturer&s recommendations for correct clamp placement.
- Store properly: Keep the clamp clean and protected from unnecessary impacts and moisture when not in use.
How to Use
- Prepare the work area: Ensure the supporting surface is stable, clean and suitable for the intended cutting or machining operation.
- Position the workpiece: Place the material securely on the workbench, MFT or other compatible workholding surface.
- Align the guide rail: Position the Festool guide rail accurately according to the required cutting or routing line.
- Inspect the clamp: Check the FS-HZ 160 for damage and ensure the lever mechanism operates correctly.
- Release the clamping mechanism: Open the lever according to the clamp&s operating arrangement to prepare it for positioning.
- Insert the clamp: Slide the compatible clamping section into the underside groove of the guide rail or designated clamping interface.
- Position the clamping jaw: Adjust the clamp to make secure contact with the workpiece or supporting surface.
- Engage the lever: Operate the quick-action lever to apply clamping pressure and secure the guide rail or workpiece.
- Check stability: Confirm that the clamp is correctly engaged and that the guide rail or workpiece cannot shift during normal operation.
- Prepare the machine: Ensure the cutting or routing equipment can travel freely without contacting the clamp.
- Perform the operation: Carry out the required cutting, routing, sanding or other suitable machining task according to the relevant machine instructions.
- Wait for the machine to stop: Switch off the machine and allow all moving components to stop completely before adjusting the workholding arrangement.
- Release the clamp: Open the lever to release the clamping pressure.
- Reposition if necessary: Adjust the guide rail or workpiece and repeat the clamping procedure for the next operation.
- Clean after use: Remove sawdust and debris from the clamping surfaces and lever mechanism before storage.
Specifications
| Description | Spec |
|---|---|
| Brand | Festool |
| Product Description | Guide Rail and Workpiece Lever Clamp |
| Cat No. | 491594 |
| Vermont Sales Product Code | FES491594 |
| Manufacturer Designation | FS-HZ 160 |
| Product Type | Quick-Action Lever Clamp |
| Clamping Width | 160mm |
| Clamping Mechanism | Lever-Operated Quick-Action Mechanism |
| Operation | One-Handed |
| Construction | Solid Steel Version |
| Locking Characteristics | Vibration-Resistant |
| Clamping Speed | Up to 5 Times Faster Than Conventional Festool Fastening Clamps |
| Guide Rail Compatibility | Compatible Festool FS/2 Guide Rails and Cross-Cutting Guide Rails |
| Multifunction Table Compatibility | Festool MFT 3 and Compatible Mobile Workshop Systems |
| Semi-Stationary Machine Compatibility | Festool CS 50, CS 70, KS 60 and KSC 60 with Suitable Clamping Arrangements |
| Primary Application | Securing Guide Rails and Workpieces |
| Additional Applications | Precision Sawing, Routing, Sanding, Assembly and Workshop Workholding |
| Quantity | 1 Piece |
Scope of Delivery:
- 1 x Festool FS-HZ 160 Quick-Action Lever Clamp
- Clamping Width: 160mm
- Manufacturer Part Number: 491594
Scope of Delivery Note
Supplied as one original Festool FS-HZ 160 lever clamp. Festool guide rails, MFT multifunction tables, workbenches, saws, routers and other accessories are not included.
Important: If your application requires securing both ends of a guide rail, an additional compatible clamp may be necessary. This product is supplied individually, not as a pair.
Safety
- Inspect before use: Check the clamp body, lever mechanism and contact surfaces for damage, bending or excessive wear.
- Ensure secure engagement: Confirm that the clamp is fully locked and the workpiece or guide rail is stable before operating machinery.
- Keep hands clear: Avoid placing fingers between the moving clamping surfaces or within the lever mechanism during operation.
- Use suitable clamping positions: Always attach the clamp to the designated Festool guide rail groove or compatible workholding interface.
- Do not exceed the clamping capacity: Only use the clamp with suitable material thicknesses and compatible workholding arrangements within its 160mm nominal width.
- Maintain machine clearance: Ensure the clamp does not obstruct the path of the saw blade, router bit or moving machine components.
- Do not modify the lever: Never extend the lever or use external tools to force the clamping mechanism beyond its intended operating range.
- Use adequate workpiece support: The clamp must not be relied upon as the sole support for heavy, unstable or overhanging materials.
- Recheck after repositioning: Whenever a guide rail or workpiece is moved, confirm correct clamping before resuming machining.
- Release only when safe: Allow machinery to stop completely before loosening or repositioning the clamp.
- Not for lifting: The FS-HZ 160 is a workholding clamp and must not be used for lifting, hoisting or supporting suspended loads.
- Follow manufacturer instructions: Observe the relevant Festool guide rail, MFT and machine operating instructions for correct clamping and safe operation.
