How to Buy a Vise That Works Best in Your Workshop

Apr 04, 2023

There are a ton of uses for a vise, but size matters. Pick the best one for your needs and you'll never buy one again.

A vise isn't the first thing you buy when setting up your workshop, but maybe it should be. They aren't the sexiest tools and the basic designs haven't changed in centuries, but when you need a solid helping hand, a vise is irreplaceable.

A vise is simply a tool used to secure an object while you work on it. There are two parallel jaws that, when squeezed together via a threaded lever, hold the workpiece still. Vises are used in metalworking, woodworking, electronics, model-making, and in any situation that requires keeping your hands a safe distance away from the workpiece, or when you need both hands to work on it.

There are a few factors to consider when buying a vise. First, how will the vise be used? Woodworkers, machinists, and welders need a work-specific vise that probably isn't the best option for most homeowners. For general household DIY, a 4- to 5-inch vise is large enough to handle most tasks. (This measurement is the length of the jaws from end to end and is maximum amount of contact your vise has with the workpiece.)

The throat depth, measured from the top of the jaws to the top of the slide below it, is also something to consider. A longer throat depth means you can hold larger pieces more securely. How wide a vise opens can be a limiting factor, so fully unwind the vise before buying it to make sure it will handle the work you need it for.

Note the overall heft and construction of the vise. Compare two vises and you may find that while the jaw length is the same, one vise may look and feel much heavier than the other. If you're going to use the vise as an anvil and pound on it, you want to know it can take the abuse. Note: Your workbench must be able to handle the weight of a larger vise, so buy accordingly.

A great option for a medium-duty vise is the Wilton 5 1/2-inch utility workshop vise. It's on the larger size, but if you've got the table to handle it, you won't be disappointed. The swivel base is convenient for working at various angles and the built-in pipe jaws work great to secure round objects.

For small jobs including model-making and arts and crafts, this 3-inch vise from Bessey is a good choice. It can clamp to any work surface and can be removed easily and stored in a drawer or storage bin.

A woodworking vise is noticeably different from most vises. This kind of tool will sit flush with the workbench, and the jaws are made of wood so as not to mar finishes. This woodworking vise from Rockler is $85 and bolts directly to the workbench.

A quality vise can last for years, and can be a great used tool purchase. Remember to buy a vise based on what you need it for and the size of your work bench and you can't go wrong.

Timothy is a lifelong DIY enthusiast who is fixated on smart home tech, beautiful tools, and wrenching on his FJ62 Land Cruiser. He's the DIY editor at Popular Mechanics and also the founder of the home improvement site, Charles & Hudson, the Webby-nominated family site, Built by Kids, and Tool Crave. When not working, you’ll find him on his board or bike enjoying the LA weather with his family and friends. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter.

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