There's a Harbor Freight type of store in CT that sells a lot of chinese tools. I have a lot of their clamps and agree, great for about 1/10th the money. I did crack a giant C clamp last winter cranking it up tight on some steel fixtures. But for the money who cares. My Jorgensen's from years back never show stress but they are now about $28 each.

How about those black plastic spring clamps for $1 at Home depot - fantastic - better springs than the original pony's at $4 ea.