Pros:
- Includes magnetic maple jaw inserts
- Removable swivel jaw for angled workpieces
- Features a quick-release mechanism
- Heavy-duty
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Bench dog is difficult to adjust
This bench vise clamps pieces vertically without getting guide bars in the way. The self-centering jaw ensures a strong hold on workpieces, and the front jaw pivots 10 degrees for irregular shapes. A set of magnetic maple jaw inserts are included to prevent marring of your piece.
Jim Ashley from Wood Lab uses this Wilton vise on his workbench and prefers it for the “single thread without the extra guide bars and also its quick-release design.” The jaw width is 7 inches with a max opening of 10 inches. The threaded rod is housed in a heavy steel channel, protecting it from grime and debris.
Pros:
- Features a quick-release mechanism
- Adjustable bench dog moves smoothly
- Vertical alignment is dead-on
- No racking
Cons:
- Bench dog is made of plastic
Workshop warriors: Look no further than the Groz vise that moves smoothly with a quick-release mechanism for easy operation. A single press of the trigger initiates the front jaw to slide freely, so you can quickly position your piece with one hand while tightening the vise with the other. The moveable jaw slightly tilts inward for excellent vertical alignment, and the chrome-plated twin guide bars prevent racking. Screw holes on the jaws make for simple attachment of wood jaw liners to prevent marring of softer woods. To top it off, this vise has a jaw width of 10.5 inches and an opening capacity of 15 inches.
Pros:
- Easy to install
- Inexpensive
- Compact size for easy storage
- Forged iron construction for durability
Cons:
- Too small for heavy-duty projects
The Irwin woodworking vise is best for light DIY needs and is priced for the beginner, which is ideal for the novice woodworker and professional who just needs an extra vise for smaller jobs. The clamp holds well and sits flush with the front of the workbench. Plus, its compact size fits in any workshop. The 4.5-inch jaw capacity is helpful for light to medium workloads, but not the best for heavy-duty projects. Keep in mind that you’ll need to supply your own mounting screws and two pieces of wood between the vise and the workpiece.
What to Consider When Buying a Bench Vise
- Weight and quality of casting: Look for a vise with a sturdy construction that can withstand the pressure of your work. A heavier vise often indicates better quality.
- Jaw size and opening: Most hobbyists find that a vise with 4 to 5 inches of opening is sufficient. However, if you work with bigger pieces, consider a vise with a larger opening, such as 9 inches, for added versatility.
- Jaws that clamp squarely: Look for jaws that clamp squarely to your workpiece to ensure a secure grip.
- Resistance to racking: Choose a vise that resists racking (twisting) to maintain stability during use.
- Quick-release mechanism: This feature can save time and effort by allowing for easy adjustment and release without the need to manually unwind the vise screw.
- Additional features: Consider added features like a bench dog, swiveling bases or a larger jaw opening to accommodate oversized workpieces.
Why You Should Trust Us
I have more than a decade of experience as an award-winning woodworker, teaching artist and writer covering a range of topics including home improvement, tool selection and home decor. Through Charms Woodworks, my one-woman woodworking shop, I specialize in furniture construction using fine joinery techniques and lead workshops on toymaking and STEM projects.
For this piece, I consulted with experts Chris Black and Jim Ashley for additional insights into the best bench vises. Chris Black is a professional toolmaker and machinist. He’s been in the business for more than 45 years. Jim Ashley is the founder of The Wood Lab, a site where he shares his journey in woodworking.
How We Found the Best Bench Vises
As a veteran woodworker and DIY enthusiast, I understand the importance of a bench vise that will last a lifetime. Drawing on my experience and consulting with expert tool makers, I carefully considered dozens of vises, selecting the best options from established brands.
My evaluation took into account factors such as material, throat depth, jaw width, mounting features and customer feedback. I included a range of vise styles suitable for various work styles, whether you’re a DIYer in a home workshop, a plumber, an automotive hobbyist or simply someone in need of a solid, well-made vise.
FAQ
How does a bench vise work?
A bench vise operates by utilizing two main jaws—a stationary jaw and a movable jaw—that are mounted on a workbench or sturdy frame using bolts or clamps. These jaws are designed to securely grip the workpiece, providing stability and allowing you to work on it with your hands free.
How do you install a bench vise?
Choose the location where you want to mount the vise on your workbench. Right-handers should mount a bench vise at the far left of the bench’s front edge, and southpaws will want to do the opposite. If the bench top is at least 2 inches thick, lag screws and washers are the best mounting option. If your top is less than 2 inches thick, install the vise with carriage bolts and secure it with nuts and washers under the vise carriage.
