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A vice is a clamping tool used to securely hold an object in place, usually during woodworking, metalworking, or any other work involving assembly, disassembly, or operations that require cutting, inserting, or fastening. Depending on the style, application, and mechanism, vices can be categorized in several ways.
By style
Generally, vices are classified based on their styles, such as bench vices, floor vices, G-corner vices, or pipe vices.
By application
Application-based classification refers to how specific work vices cater to different requirements. For example, work vices are commonly found in workshops, home repair scenarios, and DIY activities. Specialty vices like locksmith or gun vices cater to distinct fields or hobbies. Multihole vices offer versatility by accommodating various hole configurations, while a quick-release or compound vices focus on optimizing release speed or employing paired jaws with tactile patterns, respectively.
By mounting method
This classification divides vices based on how they are mounted. Bench vices are stationary and provide a secure workbench fixture for holding objects in place. Portable vices, in contrast, can be moved or relocated, offering flexibility and adaptability for tasks requiring assistance with multiple workpieces at different locations. Comparing moveable and stationary vices reveals contrasting functionalities based mainly on mobility.
The specifications of a vice can vary depending on the type and model. However, some general specifications are always present.
Sizes
The size of a bench vice is generally determined by the maximum jaw width and the distance between the jaws when fully opened. The most common vice sizes with jaw widths are listed below:
Generally, a 3 inch vice is suitable for small to medium-sized workpieces, providing a good balance between clamping force and workspace.
A 5 inch bench vice is a common choice among DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike, suitable for a wide range of tasks and workpiece sizes.
A vice with a 6 inch jaw is well-suited for heavier-duty projects, providing ample clamping force and stability for larger workpieces.
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Other sizes
Vices with other sizes are also available to meet unique work requirements.
Construction materials
Vice commonly used material options include:
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Other materials
A vice made of different materials is also available to satisfy particular usage requirements, such as plastic or brass.
To keep a vice in good working order and prolong its service life, proper maintenance is crucial.
Clean regularly
Keep both the inside and outside of the vice body clean
To maintain its original appearance and avoid the accumulation of dirt. Cleaning the body and the worktops can prevent dirt transfer onto the workpiece.
Lubrication
Apply some anti-rust oil or lubricant to the body and screw threads regularly. It can minimize the damage caused by corrosion and ensure smooth operation, extend the vice's lifespan, and maintain its functionality.
Storage
When not in use, store the vice in a dry and ventilated place. Avoid direct sunlight and contact with moisture to prevent rust and deterioration.
Usage
Use the vice appropriately based on its specifications and clamping capacity. Avoid overloading and damaging it to maintain its performance and stability.
The bench vice is popular among hobbyists, craftsmen, and DIYers but also finds use in the manufacturing and construction space. One of its primary uses at home and in workshops is holding workpieces steadily during cutting, filing, or drilling operations.
The bench vice for woodwork comes with softer jaws and an adjustable gripping width. It holds woodwork pieces steadily without leaving marks on the surfaces. The punching vice is practical for holding metal workpieces, including pipes, planks, bars, boxes, and angles. It comes with a greater clamping force and jaws with a greater hardness.
In metal fabrication and machine shops, the bench vice plays a critical role in welding operations. Welders use it to hold workpieces to steady them during welding.
When conducting construction projects, a plumber can use a bench vice to hold pipes steadily while working on them or sawing them into smaller pieces. A punching vice with greater clamping force is suitable for this application.
Cutting tools such as jeweler saws and pipe cutters require steady operation. A bench vice can come in handy to hold the tool or workpiece firmly to reduce the chances of accidents and injuries.
Removing rust from a workpiece or carrying out repair services is another application of a bench vice. Rust-removal product applications usually require almost all sides of the workpiece to be cleaned. A bench vice can hold the workpiece steadily, allowing the operator to apply the rust-removal product effortlessly. During repair services, a malfunctioned machine part can be clamped onto a bench vice for easy repair.
A locksmith can use a bench vice to hold locks securely while operating on them using fine tools like screwdrivers and pliers.
Depending on the requirements, various types of bench vises are available to fulfill distinct preferences. When choosing the proper vise, it's crucial to consider the needs and preferences. Selecting the ideal bench vice for woodwork improves performance as well as safety.
Users must consider the quality of the material to ensure performance and safety. They are more likely to break easily and malfunction, causing risk and injury if they choose vises made of lower-quality materials. Cast iron is widely used for the body and jaw of a bench vice, and alloy steel is frequently used for the screw and screw spindle. Choosing a bench vice made of high-quality material, such as this, helps to support several weights.
When a user's work requires holding large pieces or numerous pieces of wood, a large bench vice is preferable. A small bench vice is more convenient and easy to use in this case. It is also preferable if one's work mostly involves intricate components, such as electronics.
Users are encouraged to select a soft jaw bench vice if the workpieces are fragile materials, such as wood or brass. Soft jaws are preferred due to their excellent gripping ability without damage to workpieces. For better durability, the soft jaws can be replaced with hard jaws.
The bench vice is mostly fixed to a benchtop. A movable bench vice can be clamped to a workbench with no pre-drilled holes. This is suitable for a portable bench vice type. It's essential to consider the mounting type to ensure that the vise can be firmly and safely installed.
Depending on the complexity of the work, one can choose either an essential bench vice or an additional one with additional features. Additional features, such as 360° rotation and quick-release mechanisms, can help improve one's work efficiency.
Q1. What is the maximum clamping force of a vice?
A1. The clamping force of a vice can vary greatly depending on its size and construction. However, a typical bench vice may produce a clamping force of several tons. The force can go higher for larger sizes like a 12-inch bench vice. Such a large-sized bench vice could produce a clamping force of 10 tons or more.
Q2. What is the difference between a vice and a vise?
A2. There is no difference between a vice and a vise. The terms are interchangeable and refer to an instrument with two parallel jaws that hold an object firmly when clap down. Nonetheless, vice is the more commonly used term in modern English.
Q3. What are the three main types of vices?
A3. Vices can generally be categorized into three main types. These include the piping vice, bench vice, and drill or machine vice. The piping vice is specially made to hold pipes when cutting or welding. A bench vice is mounted on a workbench to hold objects firmly when carrying out various tasks. Machine vices can hold objects accurately and with great precision. They can be used with drilling machines.
