Vise help
 

I’m looking for a new bench top 6in vise. Around $100-$150 range. Any recommendations? I was trying to remove a pair of axle perches, well to make a shot story I need a new vise. :mad:
Thanks

Re: Vise help
 

Probably not what you had in mind but I have two of the old blacksmith post vices and they are nearly indestructible.

Re: Vise help
 

Used, mid 1950's or so are pretty indestructible. Or a newer Wilton industrial one. The rest are junk.

Re: Vise help
 

Keep an eye on Craigslist. One will turn up.

Re: Vise help
 

I find them at auction sales.

Re: Vise help
 

If you figure out how to remove those perches, let us know how! I gave up and found a good wishbone that alreadybhad the removed because my original setup was impossible to disassemble.

Re: Vise help
 

I'll second the recommendation for a new Wilton 6".

Re: Vise help
 

Testing vises: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VcbTopj5u7A

Re: Vise help
 

I have found a couple of Wiltons on Craigslist over the years, unfortunately not quite within John CT's price range (that may be a West Coast thing, almost everything is more expensive here in Northern California).

There are plenty of other well-made vintage vises around - Dunlap, Columbian, Reed, Yost. Those brands don't have quite the cachet as Wilton so may be a more cost-effective option. I've found most of the current selection of new low-cost no-name imported vises to be pretty much junk - jaws don't align, castings weak, etc. Even some of the new lower cost Wiltons (who knows where they are made or what matter of iron goes into them), although the current crop of Wilton "Tradesman" and "Machinist" series seem to be pretty nice (but pricey). In vises (like a lot of things) ya gets what ya pays for.

JayJay

Re: Vise help
 

If you put your real general location in your profile you might have better luck in finding the vice.

Re: Vise help
 

buy a vintage vise at a sale- as already recommended. more bang for the buck!

Re: Vise help
 

Be careful with Wilton vises, IMO. I know they have an excellent rep but years ago I bought a made in USA Wilton vise at Costco. Great price and a Wilton as well. Unfortunately it isn't up to what I would consider Wilton standards. It doesn't hold items tightly. I end up using an old import Allied vise when I need to really clamp down on a part. Just my experience.

Re: Vise help
 

I have 2 vintage Wilton vises. Got one on ebay. Top quality.

John

Re: Vise help
 

I bought mine at the Antique Machinery Show in Kent. I know that is not until September (if they even hold it this year), but the one I got was likely sixty-years-old or older...back when things were made well. I think I paid $50.00 for it. It replace a Sears that broke after five years.

I would keep an eye on Craig's List...estate sales...flea markets...etc.

Good luck.

Re: Vise help
 

Reed made vises should be pretty good,at least the older ones been made in Erie ,Pa. USA since the 1880,s and still in business at the same location.

Re: Vise help
 

Not to be confused with Vice......Drinking to much can be a Vice :eek:

Re: Vise help
 

CSRA Swap Meet is this Sunday at Rentshler Field in E Hartford. Bet you could find one there.
Paul in CT

Re: Vise help
 

Great idea and
Thanks too everyone

Re: Vise help
 

Purchase an older Wilton. It may cost you a little more, but it is well worth it. I bought a 6 inch Wilton around 1969 and used it daily in my repair shop. It isstill working as it did when I bought it. Just my opinion.