Buying Guide for Bench Vises
When it comes to metalworking and woodworking, a bench vise is like having an extra pair of sturdy hands. A quality bench vise will not only provide you with better output, but it will also ensure that you complete your work with precision. A bench vise is a necessary component of any workstation, regardless of whether it is fixed or mobile. The primary function of a vise is to secure an object so that it can be worked on safely and securely. Sanding, finishing, chipping, sawing, and welding are made easier by bench vises by freeing up the operator's hands to perform the necessary tasks. Their simplicity and versatility make them accessible to users of all skill levels and experience levels. Visit Amazon for more information.
Benefits of Bench Vises
Styles
For this article, we will examine the metalworking vise, often called an engineer's vise, a mechanic's vise, a combined vise, or a tradesman's vise. The eyelets on the sides and back of metalworking vises are used to attach them to a sturdy table.
Parts
A dynamic jaw (explained later) hangs over the edge of the table. The overhanging front jaw of a vise allows objects to be held vertically even though the vise is primarily designed to hold work pieces horizontally.
Handle
In the dynamic jaw, the handle is used as a lever for turning the lead screw. The handle of the vise is engineered to match the maximum clamping power it can handle. Handles that are poorly designed or manufactured will bend under excessive force. This acts as a safety indicator to prevent overtightening. The addition of a cheater bar to the handle is never recommended since personal safety will be compromised.
Cost-Effective
A casting process is the most common and cost-effective way to manufacture parts. The metal is poured into molds while it is still hot. The liquid steel is then allowed to cool in the mold. When the molds have cooled and hardened, they can be removed, leaving the finished shape behind. Both static and dynamic jaws are manufactured this way.
Factors to consider before buying Bench Vises
Pipe Jaws
Look for bench vises that have integrated pipe jaws. These extra jaws are located in the throat of the dynamic and static jaw and are serrated and curved specifically for holding pipes. To determine the size of your vise, you need to know the diameter of the maximum pipe.
Size
There are commonly available vise sizes of 4, 5, 6 & 8". These sizes refer to the width of the jaws. The larger and heavier the object to be held, the larger the vise required. As a general rule, the throat depth is typically proportional to the jaw width.
Shape
Occasionally, a 360o swivel base is required to accommodate an odd work piece. Consider a vise with an optional swivel base if you expect to need to adjust it on the bench. Alternately, consider a specialty vise, like an offset or rotating model.
Work Pieces
Vises with quick release opening systems are ideal. In this case, the lead screw need not be manually unwound to open the vise. Those who do this will save a lot of time.
Conclusion
Vises are also made from different materials. Gray (or grey) and Ductile iron are two of the most common materials used. Gray and Ductile iron are distinguished by the type and structure of carbon that they contain. To learn more about the product, read our reviews.
