Woodworking is a craft that requires precision, patience, and the right tools. One of the most important tools in any woodworker’s arsenal is a vise. A vise is a mechanical device that is used to hold wood in place while it is being worked on. It is an essential tool that can help you achieve accuracy and consistency in your woodworking projects.
When it comes to woodworking vises, there are several types available in the market. However, the most popular type is the bench vise. A bench vise is a type of vise that is attached to a workbench. It is designed to hold wood in place while it is being worked on. Bench vises are available in different sizes and with various features.
When looking for the best vise for woodworking, there are several critical things you should consider. One of the most important factors is the size of the vise. You need to ensure that the vise is large enough to hold the wood you will be working on. Another important factor is the strength of the vise. You need to ensure that the vise is strong enough to hold the wood securely in place.
In this article, we spent hours researching and testing various woodworking vises to identify the best vise for woodworking. We considered factors such as size, strength, durability, and ease of use. Our goal is to help you find the best vise for your woodworking needs.
Best Vises for Woodworking
If you’re a woodworking enthusiast, you know the importance of having a reliable vise. A good vise can help you keep your workpiece steady and secure while you work on it. But with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best vises for woodworking to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned woodworker, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and explore the top vises for woodworking that you can buy right now.
Pony Jorgensen 27091 Woodworker’s Vise
If you’re looking for a medium-duty woodworking vise, the Pony Jorgensen 27091 is a solid choice.
Pros
- The vise is designed to mount to the face of wood workbenches, making it easy to install.
- The front jaw features a solid steel dog, which allows oversized work to be held securely on the bench top.
- The vise operates smoothly with an Acme thread main screw and twin guide bars of plated steel.
Cons
- Some workbenches may need to be modified by mortising out part of the bench face or adding wood shims to allow jaws to be flush with the bench top.
- The location of the mounting holes on the underside of the vise may not be ideal for some users.
- The vise does not come with wood faces to protect your work.
The Pony Jorgensen 27091 Woodworker’s Vise is a reliable choice for medium-duty woodworking tasks. The vise is easy to install and features a solid steel dog in the front jaw, allowing you to hold oversized work securely on the bench top. The vise operates smoothly with an Acme thread main screw and twin guide bars of plated steel, making it easy to adjust the jaws to the perfect position.
One potential downside of the Pony Jorgensen 27091 is that some workbenches may need to be modified to allow the jaws to be flush with the bench top. Additionally, the location of the mounting holes on the underside of the vise may not be ideal for some users. Finally, the vise does not come with wood faces to protect your work, which may be a concern for some woodworkers.
Overall, if you’re in the market for a reliable medium-duty woodworking vise, the Pony Jorgensen 27091 is definitely worth considering.
Yost Vises M7WW Rapid Action Woodworking Vise | Quick Release Lever for Quick Adjustments | 7 Inch Jaw Width | Made with Heavy-Duty Cast Iron | Blue Yost M7WW Lever
If you’re looking for a high-quality and durable woodworking vise, the Yost Vises M7WW Rapid Action Woodworking Vise is an excellent option.
Pros
- The quick-release lever allows for speedy adjustments, making it easy to use.
- The buttress-threaded main screw provides powerful clamping, ensuring your workpiece stays secure.
- The vise is made from rugged cast iron, making it sturdy and long-lasting.
Cons
- The installation process can be a bit tricky due to the weight of the vise.
- The spindle machining is rough and could benefit from a sharper cutter.
- The bench dog is cheap and poorly fitting.
This woodworking vise is perfect for both home carpentry and professional woodworking. With a jaw width of 7 inches and a jaw opening of 8 inches, it’s suitable for a wide range of projects. The throat depth of 3 inches also makes it easy to clamp onto thicker pieces of wood.
The quick-release lever is a standout feature, allowing for speedy adjustments without having to turn the handle multiple times. The buttress-threaded main screw also provides powerful clamping, ensuring your workpiece stays secure while you work.
The vise is made from rugged cast iron, which makes it sturdy and long-lasting. Yost Vises has been producing high-quality vises and vise accessories since 1908, so you can trust that their products are built to last.
However, the installation process can be a bit tricky due to the weight of the vise. Additionally, the spindle machining is rough and could benefit from a sharper cutter. The bench dog is also cheap and poorly fitting, which may be a downside for some users.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality and durable woodworking vise, the Yost Vises M7WW Rapid Action Woodworking Vise is a great option. It’s easy to use, provides powerful clamping, and is built to last.
Pony 26545 4-1/2-Inch x 6-1/2-Inch Light Duty Woodworker’s Vise
If you’re looking for a light-duty woodworking vise, the Pony 26545 4-1/2-Inch x 6-1/2-Inch Light Duty Woodworker’s Vise is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Easy installation: The vise is designed to mount to the face of wood workbenches, and the installation process is straightforward.
- Compact size: The vise’s small size makes it easy to store and move around as needed.
- Durable construction: The castings are grey iron with an orange baked enamel finish, which provides durability and longevity.
Cons
- Limited capacity: The vise has a 4-1/2 inch opening capacity and a 6-1/2 inch jaw width, which may not be sufficient for larger projects.
- No instructions for different types of installation: Some users have reported that the instructions do not provide guidance for installing the vise in different ways.
- Limited travel: A few users have noted that the vise does not have enough travel, which may limit its usefulness for some projects.
Overall, the Pony 26545 4-1/2-Inch x 6-1/2-Inch Light Duty Woodworker’s Vise is a solid choice for those looking for a compact, easy-to-install vise for light-duty woodworking projects. Its durable construction and ease of use make it a great addition to any workshop.
Forward HV516 Heavy Duty Woodworking Vise Front Vise
If you’re in need of a reliable woodworking vise, the Forward HV516 Heavy Duty Woodworking Vise Front Vise is a solid option to consider.
Pros
- The 9.5 inch guide bar makes it easy to clamp and align your woodworking projects.
- Simply pull up on the handle and hold, then the vise nut to disengage. Adjust the jaws to the appropriate opening and turning the main handle will engage the screw and tighten the vise on your workpieces.
- The front vise is made from high strength cast iron (30,000 PSI), powder coated. Antirust solid electroplate steel main screw and guide rails. Heavy duty engineered for long-lasting durability.
Cons
- Wooden jaws and handle are not included.
- The installation process may require some effort.
- It may be heavier than some other woodworking vises on the market.
This woodworking vise is designed for home workshop and professional shop use, firm wooden workpiece clamping, and easy under-bench mounting. The zinc plated spare parts are rust-proof and corrosion-proof, and the two screws adding to the connecting rod avoid stripping.
In summary, the Forward HV516 Heavy Duty Woodworking Vise Front Vise is a reliable option for those in need of a woodworking vise that is easy to operate and built to last.
IRWIN Woodworking Vise
If you’re looking for a sturdy and affordable woodworking vise, the IRWIN Woodworking Vise is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The toe-in toward top jaws ensures a firm grip on workpieces.
- The square body seating makes it easy to mount it under the bench.
- The 4-1/2″ jaw capacity is perfect for light duty woodworking tasks.
Cons
- The vise doesn’t have the jaw capacity of higher-end models.
- It may not be suitable for heavy-duty woodworking tasks.
- The wooden cheeks for protecting workpieces are not included.
This vise is made of durable forged iron, which ensures long-lasting durability. It has a provision for installing wood cheeks to protect workpieces, and the toe-in toward top jaws helps ensure a firm grip on workpieces. The square body seating makes it easy to mount it under the bench, and the 4-1/2″ jaw capacity is perfect for light duty woodworking tasks.
However, this vise doesn’t have the jaw capacity of higher-end models, so it may not be suitable for heavy-duty woodworking tasks. Also, the wooden cheeks for protecting workpieces are not included, so you’ll have to purchase them separately.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable woodworking vise that gets the job done, the IRWIN Woodworking Vise is a great choice.
Yost Vises F9WW Front Vise
If you’re looking for a high-quality front vise for your woodworking projects, the Yost Vises F9WW Front Vise is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The Yost Vises F9WW Front Vise is made with a heavy-duty vise, which has a cast iron body for durability and a solid steel main screw for versatility.
- This front vise is specifically designed for making cabinets and securing two wooden pieces together while drilling or sawing the wood.
- Yost Vises is a reputable brand that has been producing high-quality vises and vise accessories since 1908. They offer lifetime tech support to back their quality guarantee.
Cons
- Misuse of vises can cause serious injury to eyes, hands, or other body parts. Vises must be set up and used properly. Before setup and use, read, understand, and follow all instructions outlined in the manual.
- The installation of this front vise can be tricky due to the lack of a template. You also need to be aware of the single cotter key guide stop, because your bench frame can interfere with it.
- The Yost Vises F9WW Front Vise is only covered by a 1-year limited warranty and 90-day return policy.
This front vise is perfect for woodworking enthusiasts who need a sturdy and reliable tool for their home workshop. The Yost Vises F9WW Front Vise is made with high-quality materials that ensure durability and versatility. With this front vise, you can easily clamp and align your woodworking projects with safety and ease.
The heavy-duty vise is designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily use, making it a great investment for any woodworking enthusiast. The cast iron body and solid steel main screw provide the necessary strength and durability to hold your workpieces securely in place.
One of the best things about the Yost Vises F9WW Front Vise is that it is specifically designed for making cabinets. This means that you can use it to secure two wooden pieces together while drilling or sawing the wood. The guide bars also ensure that your workpieces are aligned properly, which is essential for achieving accurate and precise results.
However, it’s important to note that the misuse of vises can cause serious injury to eyes, hands, or other body parts. You must set up and use the Yost Vises F9WW Front Vise properly. Before setup and use, read, understand, and follow all instructions outlined in the manual.
Overall, the Yost Vises F9WW Front Vise is a great investment for woodworking enthusiasts who need a reliable and sturdy tool for their home workshop. While the installation can be tricky, the quality and durability of this front vise make it a worthwhile purchase.
Fetcoi Woodworking Bench Vise
If you’re looking for a reliable woodworking vise, the Fetcoi Woodworking Bench Vise is a great option.
Pros
- Made of high-quality beech wood, which is strong, impact-resistant, and durable.
- Comes with 4 metal woodworking table bench dogs that provide excellent clamping power for great stability and convenient processing.
- Portable workbench acts as an extra hand when you need to work with both hands.
Cons
- The wood bench vise work surface is only 20.8 x 11 x 2.76 inches in size, which may not be suitable for larger projects.
- The bench dog pins may be a little small, causing them to not stay straight when you tighten something against them.
- The clamps are not very strong and may not hold larger pieces of wood securely.
The Fetcoi Woodworking Bench Vise is a great option for those who need a portable workbench that is easy to carry around. It’s made of high-quality beech wood, which is strong, impact-resistant, and durable. The surface of the workbench shows the clear and beautiful grain of beech wood, which brings you a pleasant and comfortable visual experience.
The woodworking vise can be used for chiseling, planing, and sawing, which can meet most of your woodworking needs. It’s equipped with 4 metal woodworking table bench dogs that provide excellent clamping power for great stability and convenient processing. This makes it easy to clamp down your workpiece and work on it with precision.
When you need to work with both hands, this portable workbench can act as an extra hand, which is so convenient. It’s easy to carry around and mount on any platform due to its compact size. However, the wood bench vise work surface is only 20.8 x 11 x 2.76 inches in size, which may not be suitable for larger projects.
The bench dog pins may be a little small, causing them to not stay straight when you tighten something against them. The clamps are not very strong and may not hold larger pieces of wood securely. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Fetcoi Woodworking Bench Vise is still a great option for those who need a portable workbench that is easy to use and carry around.
uyoyous 7″ Front Vise Woodworking Bench Vise Cast Iron Front Screw Vise Woodworking Front Vise Wood Vise
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and durable front vise for your woodworking projects, then the uyoyous 7″ Front Vise Woodworking Bench Vise Cast Iron Front Screw Vise Woodworking Front Vise Wood Vise might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The high-quality steel construction of this front vise makes it resistant to corrosion and rust, and its sturdy surface greatly reduces the wear rate, making it durable to use.
- The professional design of this front screw vise allows for quick and sturdy mounting to your workbench. The 7-inch guide bar makes it easy to work and holds things more firmly.
- The uyoyous front vise is widely used in woodworking, engineering, and welding. The slots in the base plate allow you to fix the vice to a work table or machine table.
Cons
- The wooden parts are not included, so you’ll need to purchase or make them separately.
- The vice nut doesn’t disengage as easily as expected, which can be frustrating if you need to adjust the jaws frequently.
- The vise is not a quick release vise, which can be a drawback if you need to change out workpieces frequently.
Overall, the uyoyous 7″ Front Vise Woodworking Bench Vise Cast Iron Front Screw Vise Woodworking Front Vise Wood Vise is a well-built and affordable option for those looking for a sturdy front vise for their woodworking projects. Its professional design and ease of use make it a practical choice for both beginners and experienced woodworkers.
Groz Portable Woodworking Vise
If you’re looking for a portable woodworking vise that is both lightweight and robust, the Groz Portable Woodworking Vise is an excellent option.
Pros
- The vise can be clamped to any work surface, making it very convenient to use.
- The “TOE – IN” feature of the jaws provides even clamping on the whole depth of the workpiece.
- The steel main screw, guide rods, and handle are chrome-plated for increased resistance to corrosion.
Cons
- The maximum jaw opening of 5 inches may not be sufficient for larger projects.
- The vise is not suitable for heavy-duty work.
- The handle may be too short for some users.
This portable vise is perfect for beginner woodworkers and hobbyists. It can be clamped to a bench top of maximum thickness of 2.25 inches and has four pre-drilled holes to secure to a workbench to enhance stability. The jaws face measure 2 inches tall by 6 inches wide. The vise jaws and body are made from close-grained cast iron, ensuring durability.
The Groz Portable Woodworking Vise comes with two clamping options: permanent clamping on the workbench via clamping slots provided in the vise or additional clamping option via the 2.5/32″(55mm) integrated clamp. The vice body and front plates are also made from close-grained cast iron, and the body and sliding jaw have provision for attaching wooden liners to protect the vice, the workpiece, and working tools.
Overall, the Groz Portable Woodworking Vise is a good option for those who need a lightweight and portable vise for basic woodworking projects. If you need a vise for heavier workloads, you may want to consider other options.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a vise for woodworking, there are a few key features you should consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Type of Vise
There are several types of vises available, including bench vises, pipe vises, and woodworking vises. Each type has its own unique features and benefits, so it’s important to choose one that will work best for your specific needs.
Jaw Size and Capacity
The jaw size and capacity of a vise are important factors to consider. You want to make sure that the vise can handle the size of the material you will be working with. A larger jaw size and capacity will allow you to work with larger pieces of wood.
Material and Durability
The material and durability of the vise are also important considerations. You want to choose a vise that is made from high-quality materials and is built to last. Look for vises made from heavy-duty cast iron or steel for maximum durability.
Mounting Options
The mounting options available for a vise are also important to consider. Some vises can be mounted to a workbench, while others can be mounted to a wall or other surface. Make sure you choose a vise that can be easily mounted in your workspace.
Price
Finally, price is always a consideration when buying a vise. While you don’t want to skimp on quality, you also don’t want to overspend. Look for a vise that offers the features you need at a price that fits your budget.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best vise for your woodworking needs and ensure that you have a reliable tool that will last for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top features to look for in a high-quality woodworking vise?
When looking for a high-quality woodworking vise, there are a few key features to consider. Firstly, the vise should have a strong and sturdy construction, with a solid grip on the workpiece. It should also have a large enough jaw opening to accommodate the size of your workpiece. Additionally, a good vise should be easy to install and operate, with smooth and precise movement.
Which brands are known for producing the most durable bench vises for woodworkers?
There are several brands that are known for producing durable and high-quality bench vises for woodworkers. Some of the top brands include Wilton, Yost, and Bessey. These brands offer a range of vises with various features and sizes to suit different woodworking needs.
How do I determine the appropriate size of a bench vise for my woodworking projects?
The size of the bench vise you need will depend on the size of your workpiece and the type of woodworking projects you will be working on. As a general rule, the jaw width of the vise should be at least one-third the length of the longest workpiece you plan to use it on. It’s also important to consider the thickness of the workpiece and the maximum opening of the vise jaws.
What are some affordable yet reliable bench vise options for beginners?
For beginners on a budget, there are several affordable yet reliable bench vise options available. Some good options include the Yost LV-4 Home Vise, the Bessey BV-HD60 Bench Vise, and the TEKTON 4-Inch Swivel Bench Vise. These vises offer a good balance of affordability and quality, making them a great choice for beginners.
Can you recommend a bench vise that is suitable for both woodworking and gunsmithing?
If you’re looking for a bench vise that can be used for both woodworking and gunsmithing, the Wilton 11104 Wilton Bench Vise is a great option. This vise has a sturdy construction and a large jaw opening, making it suitable for a wide range of projects. It also has a swivel base, which allows you to easily adjust the angle of the vise for different tasks.
What are the benefits of having a forged steel bench vise in a woodworking shop?
Forged steel bench vises are known for their durability and strength, making them an ideal choice for woodworking shops. They are also resistant to wear and tear, which means they can withstand heavy use over time. Additionally, forged steel vises typically have a smooth and precise operation, which is important for accurate woodworking.
