How to choose a machine vise

A machine vise (or many, multiple vises in larger environments) is an indispensable component of a modern machine shop. With many competing models on the market, how you should you choose the right machine vise for your needs?

How to use a machine vise

Machine vises hold the work piece stationary still during machining, helping to achieve tight tolerances and repeated high precision during operations like running a drill press or milling machine. A built-in flange allows attachment to the table. 

Swivel base or fixed base?

You'll find models on the market with both swivel bases and fixed bases. Swivel bases allow rotation, so you can place the vise in various positions while working, which is convenient; however, swivel bases also consume about 1.5” of Z axis space, so keep that in mind. 

Fixed base vises are less likely to move out of position compared with swivel base vises. Note that swivel bases can also be added-on to virtually all fixed base vises, if work requires it in the future.

Select a reputable brand

Popular vise manufacturers have product lines that are proven and reliable with designs refined over decades of experience. Top-selling brands include Kurt Workholding (often considered the gold standard by experienced machinists), Sowa Metalworking, and for incredible value, our own All Industrial vises.

Good-quality machine vises offer "lock-down" design, which stops the jaw from rising up while the screw is tightened (which would reduce accuracy.)

Consider the jaw opening, width, and depth

Your vises need to have jaws that open wide enough to accommodate your intended workpiece. Machine vises are commonly offered in multiple jaw widths as well, with 4, 6, and 8" being common options. 

Features that lead to a long-life

Most vises, when new, are accurate enough to created repeatable, precise work. It's important to choose vises equipped with features that keep them accurate in the future, even as they age. 

Features to look for include:

• Hardened jaws
• Sealed bearings

Consistency and accuracy

The vise brand and model you choose should publish parallelism, verticality, and/or repeatability measurements so you can choose a model that meets your requriments.