What is a vise and what are they used for?

A vise is a mechanical apparatus used to secure an object to allow work to be performed on it. They are commonly used in woodworking, metalworking, and assembly applications to hold materials steady while cutting, filing, drilling, or assembling components. ToolSource offers over 500 vises from brands like Wilton, Kukko, and Woodward Fab.

What are the different types of vises available at ToolSource?

ToolSource carries a wide variety of vises, including bench vises, drill press vises, pipe vises, and specialty vises. Bench vises, like those from Wilton Corporation, are general-purpose and mounted to workbenches. Drill press vises are designed for securing workpieces on a drill press table for accurate drilling.

What should I look for when choosing a bench vise?

When selecting a bench vise, consider the jaw width, jaw opening, and throat depth to ensure it can accommodate the size of your workpieces. Also, look for vises made from durable materials like cast iron or steel for long-lasting performance. Wilton bench vises are known for their robust construction and reliability.

What makes a bench vise 'heavy duty'?

Heavy-duty bench vises are typically constructed from high-strength materials like forged steel or ductile iron, and feature larger jaw sizes and clamping forces. These vises are designed to withstand rigorous use and are ideal for demanding applications in metalworking and fabrication. Brands like Wilton and Woodward Fab offer heavy-duty options.

What is a drill press vise and how is it used?

A drill press vise is specifically designed to hold workpieces securely on the table of a drill press. It allows for precise and repeatable drilling operations. These vises often feature slots or mounting holes for easy attachment to the drill press table and may include features like adjustable jaws and swivel bases.

What are some popular brands of vises available at ToolSource?

ToolSource offers vises from a variety of reputable brands, including Wilton Corporation, Kukko Quality Tools Inc, Woodward Fab, Lisle, Titan, Ken-Tool, Wilmar - Performance Tool, and Genius Tools. Wilton is particularly well-known for its high-quality bench vises, while other brands offer specialized vises for specific applications.

What is the difference between a bench vise and a pipe vise?

A bench vise is a general-purpose vise designed to hold a variety of materials, while a pipe vise is specifically designed to grip and hold pipes or cylindrical objects. Pipe vises typically have curved jaws with teeth to provide a secure grip on the pipe's surface. You can find both types of vises within our selection of over 500 vises.

What are some common applications for vises?

Vises are used in a wide range of applications, including woodworking, metalworking, automotive repair, and general assembly. They are essential tools for holding materials securely while cutting, filing, drilling, welding, or assembling components. Whether you're working on a small hobby project or a large industrial task, a vise can provide the stability and support you need.