best woodworking vise reviews from lathereview

Woodworking Vise Reviews & Buying Guide For 2024 (Updated)

Are you a craftsman or woodworker who is looking for an effective vise? Sometimes a clamp can do basic tasks however; a clamp is not enough for all kinds of woodworking jobs. If you want more flexibility and effectiveness, a woodworking vise is a must for you.

Many people purchase woodworking vise without considering its size. Yet, it is very important to know the size. We have come up with the 10 best woodworking vise reviews so that you can pick the right one for your setup.

Our Best 3 Product – Summary

Yost Tools 750-DI
Multi jaw rotating
Rotate 360-degree
Largest pipe capacity

Eclipse EWWQR10-NA
Quick clamping
Increases safety
Automatically bend

Shop Fox D4026
Large lead screw
Lower price
Trouble-free service

Disclosure: I will get paid if anyone buys through the links on this page as I am an affiliate of Amazon.com

10 Best Woodworking Vise Reviews

1 The Yost 750-DI Review

The Yost 750-DI, pipe and bench vise comes with multi jaw rotating capacity, and it is built to tackle tough duties. Besides, it is made out of heavy-duty 60,000 Ductile Iron which makes it two times stronger and 50% larger than other rotating vises. Moreover, it weighs 63 pounds. The clamping force of Yost 750-DI is over 9,000 lbs.

Its flexible head can rotate 360-degree, and the Pull Pin Locking Mechanism facilitates 12 locking positions at every 30-degree. The vise body can rotate 360-degree as well. The swivel base includes four 5/8 diameter holes to install it on any surface.

The Yost 750-DI offers 3 sets of hardened steel jaws facility which is replaceable. It features parallel serrated jaws, pipe jaws, and V-jaws. The pipe jaw can accommodate up to 3’5-inch which makes it the largest pipe capacity vise in the market. Besides, it has a self-align pipe jaw that allows it to adjust different pipe sizes.

On top of that, the floating design gives it more effective gripping for pipes. The Yost 750-DI with its V-groove jaw can hold as far as 5 inches circular and flat stocks. To shape and fabricate anything, it has a large anvil located on the back of the vise.

Highlighted Features

  • Made of heavy-duty 60,000 Ductile Iron
  • Vise body and head can rotate 360-degree
  • Pull Pin Locking Mechanism
  • Self-Align Pipe Jaws

Yost Tools 750-DI, 5″ EXTREME-DUTY

Pros
  • Built for heavy-duty operations
  • Comes with a lot of features
  • Floating design​​​​
  • Largest pipe capacity
Cons
  • Larger and heavier

2 Eclipse EWWQR10-NA Review

Eclipse is best known for its manufacturing of professional tools since 1909. This 10-inch Eclipse vise comes with a quick-release lever which quickly opens the vise jaws to facilitate instant wood clamping process. These exceptional features have labeled it as the most versatile and frequently usable tool.

It also features an adjustable dog that can be used with a bench-dog i.e. additional normal vise and tail vise options are incorporated in one tool. The toed jaws of this vise can carry out positive clamping even under an acute clamping pressure.

The jaws of Eclipse EWWQR10-NA are built from heavy cast iron and the slide rods are built from steel that means you can enjoy it for the lifetime of rugged usage. It includes two predrilled holes which are to accelerate sturdy mounting to your workbench, and also two cast tabs are included to the mounting screw.

For safety purposes, if pressure on the vise exceeds its limit, the fused tommy bar will automatically bend.

Highlighted Features

  • Quick Release Lever
  • Heavy Gray Iron and Steel Construction
  • Front stop is adjustable

Eclipse Quick Release Woodworking Vise

Pros
  • Jaws and slide rods are built-in heavy cast iron and solid respectively
  • Light-weight i.e. 3.53 ounces
  • Quick clamping process
  • A fused tommy bar increases safety
  • Normal vise and tail vise come in a single tool
Cons
  • Price is high

3 IRWIN Tools Multi-Purpose Bench Vise Review

IRWIN 5-inch vise comes with 5-inch rotating pipe jaws, but you can employ these jaws for multiple purposes. The fused steel handle of this vise offers a flexible adjusting system. Besides, the swivel bench can rotate 360-degree i.e. you can easily position your work-piece as per your needs. It is made of cast iron, therefore, you can deploy this vise tool for rugged use in the long run.

A polished steel anvil is incorporated at the back which you can use to shape or fabricate your work-piece also it keeps the vise firm during your work.

IRWIN 5-inch vise can apply clamping force on the work-piece up to 3500 lbs. Its jaw opens up to 5-inches and also the jaw width measures 5 inches. Also, it comes with 5-inches pipe capacity, and it weighs 33.1 pounds.

It is worth to mention that this bench vice is not heavy-duty, it is made for medium or light use. A few users claimed that their IRWIN bench-vises have broken during heavy work and as per some experts, using cast iron is responsible for these incidents.

Highlighted Features

  • Fused Steel Handle
  • Swivel base rotates 360 degrees
  • Polished steel anvil incorporated

IRWIN Tools Multi-Purpose Bench Vise

Pros
  • Clamping force 3500 lbs.
  • Serves multiple purposes
  • 360-degree rotation
Cons
  • Risk and uncertainty in its durability
  • Recommend only for light to medium purposes

4 Shop Fox D4026 Review

Shop Fox D4026 is designed in such a robust way so that you can enjoy trouble-free service for a long duration. This front vise is made of heavy-duty steel and cast iron, and it is holding all the required working hardware which is quite strong. Also, it can be categorized as a very large clamping capacity owning front vise because the vise jaws open up to 14-inches.

Choosing the Shop Fox D4026 can be wise if you are intending to build your own cabinet bench. After purchasing it, simply you need to install a few things: your own wooden jaw, wooden handle, and mounting hardware.

Its overall measurement includes 19-1/4-inch long by 10-1/4-inch wide. And its screw size includes 1-3/16-inch diameter by 15-1/2-inch long, and the guide rods are 3/4″ diameter.

The D4026 is well structured to supply smooth performance and also a quick adjustment is possible by its large lead screw.

Highlighted Features

  • Heavy-duty steel and cast iron
  • Large capacity bench vise
  • Large lead screw

Shop Fox D4026 Cabinet Maker's Vise

Pros
  • Ready to use right after installing a few fixtures.
  • Quick adjustment
  • Smooth performance
  • Trouble-free service
  • More at a lower price
Cons
  • No quick release facility
  • Lacks bench dog

5 TEKTON 8-Inch Swivel Bench Vise Review

Tekton’s new swivel bench vise is appropriate for most of your mechanical services including repairing vehicles, metalworking or assembling parts.

By knowing that this bench vise is completely secure, you can now work better, faster, and safer. All you need to do is to lock your work-piece into it, then give it a form by threading, fastening, building, bending, sharpening, or shaping it with confidence.

This incredible bench vise is made of 30,000 PSI which means it offers dependability and durability. Its replaceable serrated steel jaws come with a sure and non-slip grip which doesn’t budge.

Its swivel base rotates at 120-degree i.e. you can position your work as per your needs. Polished steel anvil is featured on the back of this vise for shaping and fabricating metal pieces. This bench vise offers 3 mounting holes to install it on the workbench. It has an acme-threaded screw that moves very smoothly and doesn’t get stuck.

Highlighted Features

  • Heavy-duty Construction
  • Flexible Adjustments
  • Serves All Mechanical Purposes

TEKTON 8-Inch Swivel Bench Vise | 54008

Pros
  • Cast iron
  • Completely secured
  • Durability and dependability
  • Serves all mechanical purposes
  • Best bench vise at a reasonable price
  • Replaceable serrated steel jaws with ideal grip
Cons
  • Swivel base rotation is limited at 120-degree
  • Lacks mounting bolts

6 Wilton 14500 4500, Reversible Mechanics Vise-Swivel Base Review

If you are searching for a vise, Wilton Reversible Mechanics Vise-Swivel Base can be your first preference because of its excellent features. It is made from 30,000 PSi casting iron that provides extended life.

The jaws are perfect for your use, and the biting surface can easily hold any materials. A 360° swivel makes it easy to work. It possesses the reversible vise mechanism that will allow you to clamp parts into the vise. It will also render you a good clamping force. Its perfect stability will help you to work without any fluctuations.

Highlighted Features

  • Provides 6 inches jaw opening
  • Offers 5-1/2-inch jaw width
  • Reversed jaw opening capacity 9-3/4 inch
  • Stability is ensured by two lockdown bolts
  • Excellent for home-usage

Wilton 5-1/2-Inch Jaw Width, 6-Inch Jaw Opening, 3-3/4-Inch Throat Depth

Pros
  • Certified frustration-free
  • Pipe jaw capacity 1/8 – 3 inch
  • Provides 4990 lbs clamping force
  • 4 mounting points
  • Built with two large anvils
  • Built from heavy-duty 30,000 PSi casting iron
  • No batteries required
  • Powered by electricity through an electric cord
Cons
  • Less suitable for the professional workshop

7 Capri Tools 10519 6″ Bench Vise Review

If you want to perform all sorts of works such as woodwork, pipework, metalwork, sawing, and drilling, Capri Tools 10519 6″ Bench Vise will serve your purposes. It’s like one in all. Its 60,000 PSi casting iron provides double strength to the vise.

Besides, it renders 6,600 lbs clamping force that gives it an extra advantage. The most amazing feature of Capri Tools 10519 6″ Bench Vise is its rotation function. Both its head and base are rotatable up to 360 degrees that will allow you to perform all diverse works.

Moreover, its 3 mount points will help you to get your work done flawlessly. It possesses large anvils that aid to work easily.

Highlighted Features

  • Bestowed with 6″ wide jaws
  • Jaw Size 0.7 inch
  • Regular throat depth 4.2 inch
  • Provides 5.7″ jaw opening
  • Produces 6,600 lbs of clamping force

Capri Tools 10519 Rotating Base and Head Bench Vise, 6″

Pros
  • Made from 60,000 PSi ductile iron
  • Furnished with 360 degrees head rotation
  • Base rotates 360 degrees
  • 3 mounting points
  • No batteries are needed
Cons
  • Sometimes, it’s hard to rotate

8 Yost Tools Vises 445 4.5″ Review

If you want to buy a vise, Yost Tools Vises 445 4.5″ will provide you with all kinds of assistance in all possible ways. The size of the jaws will allow you to clamp down on an amazing style.

Besides, the vise provides a 2-inch pipe holding capacity in diameter which is more than enough for home usages. Moreover, the replaceable jaw feature makes it versatile. Another stunning factor of the vise is it is a built-in anvil that has the potential to stand firm against a hammer strike.

The vise is designed with a 360 degree swivel base that adds another surprising touch. Most importantly, its covered main screws provide extra protection to the vise.

Highlighted Features

  • Built with a 4.5-inch jaw width
  • Offers 4-inch jaw opening
  • Throat depth 2.62 inch
  • Pipe holding capacity up to 2 inches in diameter
  • It provides 3,150 lbs clamping force
  • Double lockdown system

Yost Tools Vises 445 4.5″ Heavy-Duty Utility Combination Pipe and Bench Vise

Pros
  • Made from 30,000 PSi cast iron with steel U-channel bar
  • Large anvil area
  • Jaw size 2 inch
  • Jaws can be replaced
  • 4 base mounting tabs
  • Offers 2. 64″ x 2. 52″ pounding surface
  • Designed with 360 degree swivel base
Cons
  • Hardness of the metal

9 Woodstock D4074 5-Inch Multi-Purpose Bench Vise Review

Woodstock D4074 5-Inch Multi-Purpose Bench Vise is one of the best vises that will allow you to perform various types of works. Its strong body structure ensures a longer lifetime.

If you tighten the jaws, you will lock the rotational orientation of the head as well. It is the most lucrative feature of Woodstock D4074 5-Inch Multi-Purpose Bench Vise. Besides, it is produced with excellent mounting points that help to ensure stability. Moreover, you can clamp a heavy object such as an object weighing 180 lbs into the vise, but the vise will not frustrate you.

Its full rotating jaws make it easier while doing any works. After all, you will be satisfied with its excellent clamping force. At last, the vise will be a revolutionary one for you. So, this vise can be your first choice.

Highlighted Features

  • Bodyweight 41.6 lbs
  • Offers 5-inch jaw opening
  • Built-in pipe-jaws
  • Made from 50,000 PSi ductile iron
  • Base swivels for greater versatility

Woodstock Multi Purpose Bench Vise

Pros
  • Able to produce 7500 lbs clamping force
  • Designed with a steel handle and shaft
  • Large anvil area
  • Allow full rotation
  • Stamped on a scale to measure the amount of rotation
Cons
  • The jaws are not replaceable

10 Rockler Heavy Duty Quick Release Front Vise Review

Rockler Heavy Duty Quick Release Front Vise is an awesome vise for your work. Its slides can be opened or closed in a few seconds. You can use this strong vise for your custom workbenches.

The most surprising thing about the vise is its quick-release mechanism that will allow you to adjust the object easily. The vise provides perfect resistance to racking by using two ¾ inch diameter guide rods. In addition to it, Rockler Heavy Duty Quick Release Front Vise provides the optimum stability for handling any objects by using a 9-inch wide handle-plate.

It includes a solid hardwood handle. To conclude, Rockler Heavy Duty Quick Release Front Vise will amaze you with its excellent features.

Highlighted Features

  • Provided with a 9-inch jaw width
  • Designed with a hardwood handle.
  • Perfect for custom workbenches.
  • Equipped with a quick-release mechanism
  • Easy to install

Heavy Duty Quick Release Front Vise

Pros
  • Easily mounted with 1/4″ lag bolts
  • The jaws open up to 9 inches
  • Pre-drilled handle plate
  • 3/4 inch guide rods keep the jaws parallel
  • On-center 6 inch guide rods
  • Removable rear plate
Cons
  • Sometimes difficult to install without instructions

Buying Guide For Woodworking Vise

Finding the perfect woodworking vise can be a tough nut to crack, especially when there are plenty of options available to you. Maybe you are having a hard time to find a safe space from where to move forward! Well, no worries, we have prepared this buying guide for people who might have little to no knowledge regarding woodworking vise.

The gig contains everything you need to know, without doing the hassling task of taking tutorial lessons or browsing through the internet like a confused zombie! It’s also a reliable source if you are in search of a good deal for the next woodworking vise you are gonna buy. It doesn’t matter much if you had owned one or not, we are here to serve your needs. So, let’s move along.

Size

Well, if you need woodworking vise that can perform multiple usage function, you need to buy bigger ones in size. Even if you don’t need a large vise, ensuring that the one you buy has bigger jaws will hold your pieces in place by applying more friction.

The models we have included in our list will ease your tension regarding pieces slipping out of your vise. Though for your peace of mind, you can opt for larger models since they come with extra grip.

We understand that you need to figure out your own needs. If your concern is to do intricate work in a detailed manner, opting for smaller vise makes sense. It will just waste your time, unlike the smaller vises.

The oversized jaws also make ready accessibility to the surface harder, on which you have to work. Notes- Smaller pieces can be easily clamped to a larger vise, however, larger ones can’t be clamped on smaller vises. Remember that!

Usage Convenience

Usage convenience is one of the significant factors which determine which model you are going to buy. Most of the time we end up buying or using the tools we find easier or comfortable.

Even if that means we have to reject or avoid the ones which will serve our purpose more perfectly. So, make sure that you invest in the models that are convenient and efficient enough to use.

Quality

Worrying about the quality should be the least of your concern if you are going to choose one from our list. But, it's better to keep these factors in mind while you search for the perfect woodworking vise.

For example, the big bar situated in the middle which is known as the central support column should be made from steel. During the period of clamping, huge pressure is applied to this bar. That’s why steel is the only metal that can withstand the pressure from such brutal force. So, go for vises with a metal-made central support column.

You should opt-out for steel or iron-cast jaws if sustainability and high clamping power are what you are seeking from the jaw. You have relatively higher flexibility while choosing the material of your vise jaw, as some of the models let you make your own jaw from the woods.

Let’s rewind a little bit, so you have a brief idea about what we have just discussed. Make sure that you know what size you need, look for the model which gives you the right edge of convenience and last but not least, have reputation reviews about the quality. That’s all, now jump on the bandwagon of conscious buyers, you got this!

FAQs

What Does The Woodworking Vise Raking Means?

Racking is the process of leaning a piece of woodwork to a particular side. During the racking process, the woodworking piece either vibrates shakes or leans to one side. Due to the loose-fitting nature of the guiding bars, the woodwork piece moves outwards and cause slippage or vibration while racking.

What Should Be the Weight of a Vise Crucial?

One of the crucial aspects of woodworking vises is their weight. Vises heavier in weight will provide optimum support while clamping and working. The weight of the vise should be in sync with the installation purpose. A stable workbench decides the weight of your front vise.

Does A Wood-Jaw Vise Different from a Metal Jaw Vise?

We got the picture of the nature of the jaws from the names already. Besides that, Wood -Jaw Vises contain 2 jaws. These jaws are used to lock a workpiece in place. Metal Jaw Vises have two jaws which are replaceable and sizes of which can be of varied nature.

Final Words

Here are the best woodworking vise reviews along with a proper buying guide. Hopefully, you have got all the answers and now you are ready to purchase your woodworking vise that is suitable for your workplace.