My clamps are working again. You can bring back those dead cordless tool batteries by freezing them in the freezer. Wrap them in suran wrap, place them into the freezer for a couple of days then take them out and let them thaw for at least 24 hours no less. I use this method in regular spraying and with a HLVP system. Put your can of gel in the fridge for a couple of hours and it will go back to gel form.
Softer cells suck up the stain more readily than harder cells.
If you want the no blotchy look, try staining first with Natural stain, then the coloured stain. Wipe on the natural, wipe it off and immediately add the coloured stain. If you do this you will never get the blotchies. Helps too if you are adding solid wood to particleboard veneered material or hardwood plywoods, helps to even out the stains and make them more natural looking. Lay board, cup up, on spacers to allow air circulation underneath.