Buying Guide for the Best American Made Bench Vise
When choosing an American-made bench vise, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get a product that meets your needs. A bench vise is a versatile tool used to hold objects securely in place while you work on them, making it essential for tasks such as sawing, drilling, and filing. Understanding the different specifications will help you select a vise that is durable, reliable, and suitable for your specific applications.Jaw WidthJaw width refers to the size of the vise's jaws, which are the flat, clamping surfaces that hold the workpiece. This spec is important because it determines the maximum size of the object you can clamp. Jaw widths typically range from 4 to 8 inches. For light-duty tasks or smaller projects, a jaw width of 4 to 5 inches may be sufficient. For more heavy-duty work or larger projects, consider a jaw width of 6 inches or more. Choose a jaw width that matches the size of the materials you commonly work with.
Jaw OpeningJaw opening is the maximum distance between the jaws when they are fully opened. This spec is crucial because it dictates the largest object you can fit into the vise. Jaw openings usually range from 4 to 10 inches. If you often work with larger pieces, opt for a vise with a wider jaw opening. For smaller, more detailed work, a smaller jaw opening will suffice. Consider the typical size of the objects you need to clamp when selecting the jaw opening.
Throat DepthThroat depth is the distance from the top of the jaws to the base of the vise. This measurement is important because it affects how deep you can clamp an object. Throat depths generally range from 2 to 5 inches. A deeper throat allows you to hold larger or more irregularly shaped objects more securely. If you frequently work with thicker materials, a vise with a greater throat depth will be beneficial. For standard tasks, a moderate throat depth will be adequate.
Swivel BaseA swivel base allows the vise to rotate, providing greater flexibility and ease of use. This feature is important for positioning your workpiece at different angles without having to reposition the entire vise. Swivel bases typically offer rotation angles from 180 to 360 degrees. If you need to frequently adjust the angle of your workpiece, a vise with a swivel base is highly recommended. For stationary tasks, a fixed base may be sufficient.
Material and ConstructionThe material and construction of the vise determine its durability and strength. Most high-quality bench vises are made from cast iron or steel. Cast iron is known for its excellent strength and durability, making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks. Steel vises are also strong and often lighter in weight. When choosing a vise, consider the type of work you will be doing. For heavy-duty, high-impact tasks, a cast iron vise is ideal. For general use, a steel vise will provide a good balance of strength and portability.
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 a solid surface for striking. If you frequently need to hammer or shape metal, a vise with an anvil will be very useful. For tasks that do not involve hammering, the anvil may not be as critical. Consider your specific needs when deciding if an anvil is necessary for your bench vise.