Best Bench Vise For Metalwork This Year – Power Tools Reviews
Our winners of the Best Bench Vise For Metalwork this year are:
BEST OVERALL
Wilton 11104 Wilton Bench Vise
- 4-inch jaw width
- 360-degree swivel base
- Built-in pipe jaws
- Large anvil work surface
- Durable cast iron construction
Introduction
When it comes to metalworking, having the right tools is crucial for achieving precise and clean results. One of the most essential tools in any metalworker’s arsenal is the bench vise. The best bench vise for metalwork provides a solid grip, stability, and durability, which are all necessary for handling various metalworking tasks. Whether you are a professional or a hobbyist, investing in a high-quality bench vise can make all the difference in the efficiency and quality of your work.
In this article, we will explore some of the top bench vises available on the market, discuss what to look for when purchasing one, and answer some common questions related to bench vises for metalwork. By the end of this guide, you will be well-equipped to choose the best bench vise for your needs.
Reviews & Comparisons
1. Wilton 11104 Wilton Bench Vise
The Wilton 11104 is a heavy-duty bench vise designed for metalworking. Its robust construction and versatile features make it a favorite among professionals and hobbyists alike.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Wilton 11104 for its durability and versatility. The vise’s strong build ensures it can handle heavy-duty tasks, while its swivel base offers flexibility in positioning.
Features
- 4-inch jaw width
- 360-degree swivel base
- Built-in pipe jaws
- Large anvil work surface
- Durable cast iron construction
Pros
- Sturdy and durable
- Versatile features
- Easy to use
- Good value for money
- Reliable brand
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
- Requires maintenance
- Limited jaw opening
- Can be difficult to mount
Our Verdict
The Wilton 11104 is an excellent choice for those who need a reliable and versatile bench vise for metalworking. Its sturdy construction and useful features make it a worthwhile investment.
2. Yost LV-4 Home Vise
The Yost LV-4 Home Vise is a compact and affordable option for those who need a reliable bench vise for light to medium-duty metalworking tasks.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the Yost LV-4 for its affordability and compact design. It’s perfect for small workshops and hobbyists who need a reliable vise without breaking the bank.
Features
- 4.5-inch jaw width
- 240-degree swivel base
- Built-in pipe jaws
- Cast iron construction
- Blue powder coat finish
Pros
- Affordable
- Compact design
- Versatile
- Easy to mount
- Durable
Cons
- Limited jaw opening
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Swivel base could be smoother
- Requires regular maintenance
- Limited anvil surface
Our Verdict
The Yost LV-4 Home Vise is a great option for those who need a reliable and affordable bench vise for light to medium-duty metalworking tasks. Its compact design makes it perfect for small workshops.
3. TEKTON 54004 Bench Vise
The TEKTON 54004 Bench Vise is designed for both metalworking and woodworking, making it a versatile addition to any workshop.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the TEKTON 54004 for its versatility and robust construction. It can handle a variety of tasks, making it a great all-around vise for any workshop.
Features
- 4-inch jaw width
- 120-degree swivel base
- Anvil work surface
- Durable cast iron construction
- Replaceable steel jaws
Pros
- Versatile
- Durable
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Good build quality
Cons
- Limited swivel range
- Heavy
- Requires maintenance
- Limited jaw opening
- Anvil surface could be larger
Our Verdict
The TEKTON 54004 Bench Vise is a versatile and durable option for those who need a reliable vise for both metalworking and woodworking tasks. Its robust construction ensures it can handle a variety of tasks with ease.
4. IRWIN Tools Multi-Purpose Bench Vise
The IRWIN Tools Multi-Purpose Bench Vise is a versatile and durable tool designed for a variety of metalworking tasks.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the IRWIN Tools Multi-Purpose Bench Vise for its versatility and robust construction. It can handle a wide range of tasks, making it a valuable addition to any workshop.
Features
- 5-inch jaw width
- 360-degree swivel base
- Built-in pipe jaws
- Durable cast iron construction
- Large anvil work surface
Pros
- Versatile
- Durable
- Easy to use
- Good build quality
- Reliable brand
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
- Requires maintenance
- Limited jaw opening
- Can be difficult to mount
Our Verdict
The IRWIN Tools Multi-Purpose Bench Vise is a versatile and durable option for those who need a reliable vise for a variety of metalworking tasks. Its robust construction and useful features make it a valuable addition to any workshop.
5. Performance Tool W3904 Bench Vise
The Performance Tool W3904 Bench Vise is a budget-friendly option for those who need a reliable tool for light to medium-duty metalworking tasks.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the Performance Tool W3904 for its affordability and compact design. It’s perfect for small workshops and hobbyists who need a reliable vise without breaking the bank.
Features
- 4-inch jaw width
- 180-degree swivel base
- Anvil work surface
- Durable cast iron construction
- Replaceable steel jaws
Pros
- Affordable
- Compact design
- Versatile
- Easy to mount
- Durable
Cons
- Limited jaw opening
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Swivel base could be smoother
- Requires regular maintenance
- Limited anvil surface
Our Verdict
The Performance Tool W3904 Bench Vise is a great option for those who need a reliable and affordable bench vise for light to medium-duty metalworking tasks. Its compact design makes it perfect for small workshops.
6. Yost Vises 445 Utility Combination Pipe and Bench Vise
The Yost Vises 445 Utility Combination Pipe and Bench Vise is a versatile tool designed for both metalworking and pipe tasks.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Yost Vises 445 for its versatility and robust construction. It can handle a variety of tasks, making it a great all-around vise for any workshop.
Features
- 4.5-inch jaw width
- 360-degree swivel base
- Built-in pipe jaws
- Durable cast iron construction
- Replaceable steel jaws
Pros
- Versatile
- Durable
- Easy to use
- Good build quality
- Reliable brand
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
- Requires maintenance
- Limited jaw opening
- Can be difficult to mount
Our Verdict
The Yost Vises 445 Utility Combination Pipe and Bench Vise is a versatile and durable option for those who need a reliable vise for a variety of tasks. Its robust construction and useful features make it a valuable addition to any workshop.
7. Olympia Tools 38-604 Bench Vise
The Olympia Tools 38-604 Bench Vise is a budget-friendly option for those who need a reliable tool for light to medium-duty metalworking tasks.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the Olympia Tools 38-604 for its affordability and compact design. It’s perfect for small workshops and hobbyists who need a reliable vise without breaking the bank.
Features
- 4-inch jaw width
- 180-degree swivel base
- Anvil work surface
- Durable cast iron construction
- Replaceable steel jaws
Pros
- Affordable
- Compact design
- Versatile
- Easy to mount
- Durable
Cons
- Limited jaw opening
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Swivel base could be smoother
- Requires regular maintenance
- Limited anvil surface
Our Verdict
The Olympia Tools 38-604 Bench Vise is a great option for those who need a reliable and affordable bench vise for light to medium-duty metalworking tasks. Its compact design makes it perfect for small workshops.
8. Grizzly G7062 Multi-Purpose Bench Vise
The Grizzly G7062 Multi-Purpose Bench Vise is a versatile tool designed for a variety of metalworking tasks.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Grizzly G7062 for its versatility and robust construction. It can handle a wide range of tasks, making it a valuable addition to any workshop.
Features
- 5-inch jaw width
- 360-degree swivel base
- Built-in pipe jaws
- Durable cast iron construction
- Large anvil work surface
Pros
- Versatile
- Durable
- Easy to use
- Good build quality
- Reliable brand
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
- Requires maintenance
- Limited jaw opening
- Can be difficult to mount
Our Verdict
The Grizzly G7062 Multi-Purpose Bench Vise is a versatile and durable option for those who need a reliable vise for a variety of metalworking tasks. Its robust construction and useful features make it a valuable addition to any workshop.
9. Wilton 11106 Wilton Bench Vise
The Wilton 11106 is a heavy-duty bench vise designed for metalworking. Its robust construction and versatile features make it a favorite among professionals and hobbyists alike.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Wilton 11106 for its durability and versatility. The vise’s strong build ensures it can handle heavy-duty tasks, while its swivel base offers flexibility in positioning.
Features
- 6-inch jaw width
- 360-degree swivel base
- Built-in pipe jaws
- Large anvil work surface
- Durable cast iron construction
Pros
- Sturdy and durable
- Versatile features
- Easy to use
- Good value for money
- Reliable brand
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
- Requires maintenance
- Limited jaw opening
- Can be difficult to mount
Our Verdict
The Wilton 11106 is an excellent choice for those who need a reliable and versatile bench vise for metalworking. Its sturdy construction and useful features make it a worthwhile investment.
10. TEKTON 54006 Bench Vise
The TEKTON 54006 Bench Vise is designed for both metalworking and woodworking, making it a versatile addition to any workshop.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the TEKTON 54006 for its versatility and robust construction. It can handle a variety of tasks, making it a great all-around vise for any workshop.
Features
- 6-inch jaw width
- 120-degree swivel base
- Anvil work surface
- Durable cast iron construction
- Replaceable steel jaws
Pros
- Versatile
- Durable
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Good build quality
Cons
- Limited swivel range
- Heavy
- Requires maintenance
- Limited jaw opening
- Anvil surface could be larger
Our Verdict
The TEKTON 54006 Bench Vise is a versatile and durable option for those who need a reliable vise for both metalworking and woodworking tasks. Its robust construction ensures it can handle a variety of tasks with ease.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right bench vise for metalwork can be a daunting task, given the wide variety of options available. Here are some key points to consider:
- Jaw Width: The jaw width determines the size of the materials you can work with. For most metalworking tasks, a jaw width of 4 to 6 inches is ideal. You can find more about jaw widths on Popular Mechanics and Family Handyman.
- Jaw Opening: The jaw opening is the maximum distance the jaws can open. A larger jaw opening allows you to hold bigger pieces of metal, making the vise more versatile.
- Material and Build Quality: Look for a bench vise made from high-quality materials such as cast iron or steel. These materials offer better durability and strength, ensuring that the vise can withstand heavy use.
- Swivel Base: A swivel base allows you to rotate the vise to different angles, providing greater flexibility and precision in your work. This feature is particularly useful for complex metalworking tasks.
- Anvil Surface: Many bench vises come with an anvil surface on the back. This feature is useful for hammering and shaping metal, adding to the versatility of the tool.
FAQs
What is a bench vise used for in metalworking?
A bench vise is used to hold metal pieces securely in place while you work on them. It allows you to perform tasks such as cutting, filing, grinding, and welding with greater precision and safety.
How do I maintain my bench vise?
To maintain your bench vise, regularly clean it to remove any debris or metal shavings. Lubricate the moving parts to ensure smooth operation and check for any signs of wear or damage. Tighten any loose bolts or screws to keep the vise in good working condition.
Can I use a wood vise for metalworking?
While you can use a wood vise for some light metalworking tasks, it is not recommended for heavy-duty work. A bench vise designed specifically for metalworking is more robust and better suited to handle the demands of working with metal.
What size bench vise do I need?
The size of the bench vise you need depends on the type of metalworking tasks you plan to perform. For general metalworking, a vise with a jaw width of 4 to 6 inches is usually sufficient. For larger or more complex tasks, you may need a bigger vise.
Is a swivel base necessary for a bench vise?
A swivel base is not strictly necessary, but it adds a lot of convenience and flexibility to your work. It allows you to rotate the vise to different angles, making it easier to work on different parts of the metal piece without having to reposition it.
Conclusion
Choosing the best bench vise for metalwork is essential for achieving high-quality results. Consider factors such as jaw width, jaw opening, material and build quality, swivel base, and anvil surface when making your decision. By understanding these key features and how they impact your work, you can select a bench vise that meets your specific needs and enhances your metalworking projects.