Buying Guide for the Best Bench Vises
When choosing a bench vise, it's important to consider the specific tasks you'll be using it for. A bench vise is a versatile tool that can hold materials in place while you work on them, making it essential for woodworking, metalworking, and other DIY projects. To find the best fit for your needs, you'll need to understand the key specifications and how they impact the vise's performance and suitability for your tasks.Jaw WidthJaw width refers to the size of the vise's jaws, which are the parts that clamp down on the material. This spec is important because it determines the maximum size of the material you can hold. Jaw widths typically range from 4 to 8 inches. For light-duty tasks and smaller projects, a jaw width of 4 to 5 inches may be sufficient. For more heavy-duty tasks or larger materials, consider a jaw width of 6 to 8 inches. Choose a jaw width that matches the size of the materials you'll be working with most often.
Jaw OpeningJaw opening is the maximum distance the jaws can open, which dictates the largest piece of material the vise can hold. This is crucial for ensuring that the vise can accommodate the materials you plan to work with. Jaw openings can range from 4 to 10 inches or more. For general use, a jaw opening of 6 to 8 inches is usually adequate. If you frequently work with larger materials, opt for a vise with a wider jaw opening. Consider the typical size of the materials you'll be clamping to determine the appropriate jaw opening.
Throat DepthThroat depth is the distance from the top of the jaws to the base of the vise. This spec is important because it affects how deep the vise can hold a piece of material. Throat depths usually range from 2 to 4 inches. A deeper throat depth allows you to hold larger or more irregularly shaped materials more securely. For most general tasks, a throat depth of around 3 inches is sufficient. If you need to hold larger or more complex pieces, look for a vise with a deeper throat depth.
Swivel BaseA swivel base allows the vise to rotate, providing greater flexibility and ease of use. This feature is important if you need to adjust the angle of the material you're working on without repositioning it in the vise. Swivel bases can typically rotate 180 to 360 degrees. For most users, a swivel base that rotates 180 degrees is sufficient. If you need maximum flexibility, look for a vise with a 360-degree swivel base. Consider how often you'll need to adjust the angle of your workpiece when deciding if a swivel base is necessary.
AnvilAn anvil is a flat, hardened surface on the back of the vise that can be used for hammering and shaping materials. This feature is important for tasks that require additional force or shaping, such as metalworking. Not all vises have an anvil, so if you need this functionality, make sure to choose a vise that includes it. The size and hardness of the anvil can vary, so consider the types of tasks you'll be performing to determine the appropriate anvil size and strength.
MaterialThe material of the vise affects its durability and strength. Common materials include cast iron, ductile iron, and steel. Cast iron is strong and durable, making it suitable for most general tasks. Ductile iron is even stronger and more resistant to impact, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks. Steel is the strongest and most durable option, suitable for the most demanding applications. Consider the types of tasks you'll be performing and choose a material that offers the necessary strength and durability for your needs.
