Answer
Sep 15, 2026 - 08:04 AM
To choose the right size vise is determined by the width of its jaws and the maximum opening capacity between the jaws. To select the right size, you must think about the largest workpiece you need to hold and choose a vise with jaws wide and an opening large enough to accommodate it. In my shop I have a woodworkers vise which has wood inside the jaws so not to mar the workpiece and is made specifically for wood and plastic holding. Also in my shop I have a utility bench vise which is made out of cast iron with replaceable steel jaws . This vise is used for metal work but can also have soft jaw covers for lighter metal work and so they won't mar the surface as in brass and aluminum.
