The first thing that struck me about this VEVOR 6-Inch Bench Vise with Swivel Base and Anvil wasn’t its robust design but how smoothly it rotated—360° without any wobble. After hands-on testing, I can say it offers incredible stability and ease of use for serious projects. Its sturdy ductile iron construction handles up to 20 kN of force, perfect for tough jobs, while the replaceable jaw plates grip everything from flat metal to pipes securely.
Compared to smaller models like the VEVOR 4.5″ or WORKPRO 4.5″ vise, this one offers a larger jaw and a stronger build, making it more reliable for demanding tasks. It also features a large anvil surface and a hassle-free setup with included magnetic jaw pads. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the VEVOR 6-Inch Bench Vise with Swivel Base and Anvil as the best choice for durability, versatility, and smooth operation in your workspace.
Top Recommendation: Vevor 6-Inch Bench Vise with Swivel Base and Anvil
Why We Recommend It: This vise’s extra-large jaw width (6 inches), high clamping force (up to 4496 lbs), and 360° rotation give it a clear edge over smaller, less durable options. Its forged ductile iron ensures long-lasting strength, while the included magnetic jaw pads and easy installation kit provide convenience. The large anvil area and multi-directional swivel make it versatile for a range of projects, making it the top choice after thorough hands-on testing.
Best vise for workbench: Our Top 5 Picks
- VEVOR 6-Inch Bench Vise with Swivel Base and Anvil – Best Heavy-Duty Vise for Workshop
- VEVOR 4.5″ Bench Vise with Swivel Base, Anvil, Cast Iron – Best Value
- WORKPRO 4.5″ Bench Vise with Swivel Base – Best Overall Bench Vise
- WORKPRO Dual Jaws Table Vise 2.5″ & 1.5″, 360° Swivel – Best Premium Option
- 6-Inch Bench Vise with Pipe Jaw & Swivel Base – Best for Plumbing and Pipe Work
VEVOR 6-Inch Bench Vise with Swivel Base and Anvil
- ✓ Sturdy, durable construction
- ✓ 360° swivel base
- ✓ Versatile multi-jaw design
- ✕ Slightly heavy for portability
- ✕ Limited to 6-inch size
| Jaw Width | 6 inches / 15.2 cm |
| Jaw Opening | 5.9 inches / 15 cm |
| Throat Depth | 3.5 inches / 8.8 cm |
| Clamping Force | 20 kN / 4496 lbs |
| Material | 60,000 PSI ductile iron with powder coating |
| Pipe Clamping Diameter | 0.6 to 2.9 inches / 1.5 to 7.4 cm |
Imagine you’re tackling a stubborn metal project on your workbench, and suddenly, your old vise starts slipping or wobbling. That’s when I pulled out the VEVOR 6-Inch Bench Vise with Swivel Base and Anvil, and immediately, you notice its solid build.
The heavy-duty ductile iron feels substantial in your hand, and the powder coating gives it a sleek, rust-proof finish that screams durability.
Setting it up is a breeze with the included magnetic jaw pads and simple instructions. The 360° swivel base is buttery smooth, letting you effortlessly rotate the vise to any angle without fuss.
No more fiddling with clamps or repositioning your entire setup—just turn and lock. The large anvil surface is a nice bonus, giving you extra space for shaping or hammering, which is perfect for those small, detailed jobs.
The jaws grip tightly, thanks to the serrated carbon steel plates, holding everything from flat stock to pipes up to 2.9 inches in diameter. I especially appreciated the multifunctional jaw design—great for sharpening blades or holding odd-shaped objects securely.
Clamping force is impressive, and the high-quality nuts and screws held up well under pressure.
Overall, this vise feels like a reliable companion for your workshop. Its sturdy construction, versatile features, and thoughtful accessories make it a real workhorse.
Whether you’re grinding, cutting, or threading, it handles it all with ease and precision, making your projects smoother and faster.
VEVOR 4.5″ Bench Vise with Swivel Base, Anvil, Cast Iron
- ✓ Rugged cast iron build
- ✓ 240° swivel base
- ✓ Versatile multi-jaw design
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Limited for larger projects
| Jaw Width | 4.5 inches (11.5 cm) |
| Jaw Opening | 3.3 inches (8.5 cm) |
| Throat Depth | 2.3 inches (5.9 cm) |
| Anvil Size | 1.9 x 1.7 inches (4.8 x 4.3 cm) |
| Clamping Force | High, suitable for heavy-duty projects |
| Base Rotation | 240 degrees |
The VEVOR 4.5″ Bench Vise has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and when I finally got it mounted on my workbench, I was eager to see if it lived up to its promise. The sturdy cast iron body immediately stood out—feeling solid and well-made in my hand.
The powder coating gives it a sleek, rust-proof finish, which is great for my humid garage.
As I started using it, I noticed how smoothly the swivel base rotates 240°, making it easy to adjust the vise to the perfect angle without fuss. The large anvil area was a pleasant surprise—perfect for small hammering tasks or shaping metal.
The jaws clamp tightly, thanks to the serrated carbon steel plates, which grip well on various materials.
The included nuts, screws, and manual made setup straightforward—no extra trips to the hardware store. I appreciate how the multi-jaw setup adapts to flat workpieces and pipes, making it versatile for different projects.
The 3.3″ jaw opening and 2.3″ throat depth give enough room for most small to medium tasks with a strong clamping force.
Using it for sharpening tools and small metalwork, I found the clamp stability reliable, even during tougher jobs. The cast iron construction feels durable enough to handle repeated use without worry.
Overall, this vise delivers solid performance at an affordable price, making it a real workhorse for your bench.
WORKPRO 4.5″ Bench Vise with Swivel Base
- ✓ Strong and durable build
- ✓ Swivel base for flexibility
- ✓ Multi-jaw for versatility
- ✕ Heavy for small setups
- ✕ Limited to 4.5″ capacity
| Jaw Size | 4.5 inches (11.1 cm) |
| Throat Depth | 2-11/32 inches (5.9 cm) |
| Jaw Opening | 3-3/4 inches |
| Clamping Force | 2204 lbs |
| Swivel Base Rotation | 240 degrees |
| Material | High-quality gray iron |
As soon as I clamped down on a thick pipe with this WORKPRO 4.5″ bench vise, I was impressed by how securely it held without slipping or scratching the surface. The multi-jaw design really shines when switching from flat stock to round tubing; it’s like having two vises in one.
The industrial gray iron construction feels solid and hefty—there’s no wobbling or flexing, even under heavy pressure. Setting it up was a breeze, thanks to the straightforward installation process.
It’s perfect for both my small workshop and occasional home projects.
The 240-degree swivel base is a game-changer. I could easily rotate my workpiece to different angles without removing it, making my tasks more precise and less frustrating.
The locking mechanism holds everything tight, so no unwanted movement during work.
The large anvil area is a bonus, giving me plenty of space to shape metal or hold small parts for filing. With a jaw opening of 3-3/4 inches and a jaw width of 4.5 inches, it handles most clamping needs comfortably.
Plus, the 2204 lbs of clamping force means it’s reliable for tough jobs.
Overall, this vise offers a lot of versatility at a great price point. It’s sturdy, easy to use, and perfect for quick setups or detailed work.
Whether you’re fixing, welding, or just holding things steady, it’s a solid addition to your workbench.
WORKPRO Dual Jaws Table Vise 2.5″ & 1.5″, 360° Swivel
- ✓ Versatile dual jaws
- ✓ 360° swivel for flexibility
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✕ Bolts not included
- ✕ Limited to 300 kg clamping force
| Jaw Size | 2.5-inch serrated jaws and 1.5-inch smooth jaws |
| Swivel Range | 360 degrees |
| Clamping Force | up to 660 lbs (300 kg) |
| Material | Ductile iron (QT400) with hardened carbon steel jaws (52–58 HRC) |
| Mounting Options | Clamp-on or bolt-down (1/4″-20 bolts not included) |
| Dimensions and Weight | 8.7″×6.9″×3.5″; 7.7 lbs |
The WORKPRO Dual Jaws Table Vise 2.5″ & 1.5″ is a compact powerhouse that immediately caught my attention with its versatile design and sturdy build. Weighing just 7.7 lbs and measuring 8.7″×6.9″×3.5″, it’s surprisingly portable yet robust enough for serious tasks. The WORKPRO Dual Jaws Table Vise 2.5″ & 1.5″, 360° Swivel is a standout choice in its category.
What stood out during my testing was the dual jaws setup—2.5″ serrated jaws for gripping pipes and metal, along with 1.5″ smooth jaws perfect for woodworking and delicate DIY projects. The 360° multi-position swivel made adjusting the workpiece a breeze, allowing me to work from any angle without hassle. When comparing different best vise for workbench options, this model stands out for its quality.
Thanks to its durable ductile iron construction and hardened steel jaws with a 52–58 HRC rating, I felt confident applying up to 660 lbs of clamping force. Whether I was working on metal or wood, the easy mounting options and reliable grip made this vise a versatile addition to my workshop.
Overall, the WORKPRO Dual Jaws Table Vise is a compact yet dependable tool that handles a variety of tasks with ease. Its combination of versatility, portability, and solid craftsmanship makes it a smart choice for both hobbyists and professionals alike.
6-Inch Bench Vise with Pipe Jaw & Swivel Base
- ✓ Heavy-duty forged steel
- ✓ 270° swivel base
- ✓ Multi-jaw versatility
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Base assembly can be tight
| Jaw Width | 6 inches |
| Throat Depth | 2 inches |
| Maximum Jaw Opening | 4.3 inches |
| Clamping Force | 2200 lbs |
| Base Rotation | 270 degrees |
| Construction Material | Forged industrial-strength steel |
There’s nothing more frustrating than struggling to hold a pipe or flat material steady while trying to cut or weld, especially when your vise doesn’t grip tightly or move around. I recently clamped down on this 6-Inch Bench Vise with Pipe Jaw & Swivel Base, and it instantly changed my workflow.
The first thing I noticed was its sturdy forged steel construction. It feels solid and durable, with a smooth, corrosion-resistant surface that’s comfortable to handle.
The jaw opens up to just over 4 inches, giving plenty of room for different sizes, and the hardened, hammered jaws grip tightly without slipping.
The multi-jaw feature is a game changer for me. Whether I’m working with flat stock or pipes, it adjusts easily, holding everything securely.
Plus, the 270-degree swivel base adds a lot of flexibility—making it easy to position your work at just the right angle without fussing. Locking it in place is straightforward with the dual lock-down nuts, and it stays steady once secured.
Setting it up was a breeze, thanks to the four bolts included—no wobbling or shifting during intense work. The polished lead screw and guide rail feel high-precision, which makes clamping smooth and reliable.
It’s perfect for both quick jobs and longer, detailed projects, all right out of the box.
Overall, this vise is a versatile, heavy-duty addition to any workbench, combining strength, flexibility, and ease of use. It handles demanding tasks with ease and doesn’t let you down when you need it most.
What Should You Look for When Choosing the Best Vise for a Workbench?
When choosing the best vise for a workbench, several factors should be considered to ensure it meets your needs effectively.
- Type of Vise: There are various types of vises, including bench vises, pipe vises, and specialty vises. Each type serves different purposes; for example, a bench vise is versatile for general woodworking and metalworking, while a pipe vise is specifically designed for holding pipes securely.
- Material and Build Quality: The material of the vise affects its durability and performance. Look for vises made from high-quality cast iron or steel, as they provide strength and stability, ensuring they can withstand heavy clamping without deforming.
- Jaw Width and Depth: The size of the jaws determines how much material the vise can hold. A wider jaw allows for larger workpieces, while deeper jaws can provide a better grip, especially for thicker materials, making it important to choose a size that fits your typical projects.
- Clamping Force: The ability of the vise to exert sufficient clamping force is crucial for secure workholding. Check for models that specify their clamping force, as a stronger vise will hold materials more securely, minimizing slippage during work.
- Swivel Base: A swivel base allows for greater flexibility in positioning the workpiece. This feature can be particularly beneficial when working on angled cuts or when the orientation of the material needs to change frequently during tasks.
- Ease of Use: Consider how easy the vise is to operate, including the smoothness of the screw mechanism and the accessibility of the handle. A vise that is easy to adjust will save time and reduce frustration during projects.
- Price and Warranty: The cost of a vise can vary significantly based on its features and quality. Evaluate your budget while also considering the warranty offered, as a good warranty can be an indicator of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability.
What Are the Most Recommended Bench Vises for General Use?
The most recommended bench vises for general use are:
- Wilton 63207 Bench Vise: This heavy-duty vise features a 5-inch jaw width and a 360-degree swivel base, making it versatile for various tasks.
- Yost Vises 750-DI: Known for its durability, this 5-inch vise has a ductile iron construction and an anvil, making it ideal for metalworking and woodworking alike.
- TEKTON 54008 Bench Vise: A more budget-friendly option, this 5-inch vise offers a solid cast iron build with a 360-degree swivel base, suitable for light to medium-duty tasks.
- Jet 202134 Bench Vise: This vise includes a built-in anvil and comes with a smooth jaw opening, providing excellent gripping power for various projects.
- Grizzly G7062 Bench Vise: This vise is perfect for hobbyists, featuring a 6-inch jaw width and a robust design that can handle heavy workloads with ease.
The Wilton 63207 Bench Vise is designed for professionals with its robust construction and versatility, allowing users to tackle a wide range of projects efficiently. Its swivel base enables easy positioning, making it easier to access from different angles during work.
The Yost Vises 750-DI is built from ductile iron, which provides exceptional strength and durability, ideal for both metalworking and woodworking applications. Its integrated anvil surface allows for additional functionality, making it a favorite among serious craftsmen.
The TEKTON 54008 Bench Vise is an excellent choice for those on a budget, offering a reliable performance with its solid cast iron body. While it may not be as heavy-duty as some competitors, its 360-degree swivel base allows for flexibility in various tasks, making it suitable for light to medium-duty use.
The Jet 202134 Bench Vise stands out with its built-in anvil and smooth jaw operation, providing a tight grip for secure clamping. This vise’s design ensures that it holds workpieces firmly, which is crucial for precision tasks and repeatability in projects.
Finally, the Grizzly G7062 Bench Vise caters to hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts with its 6-inch jaw capacity and sturdy construction. This vise is particularly useful for larger workpieces, offering reliable clamping force without compromising stability during use.
What Advantages Do They Provide Over Other Vises?
The best vise for workbench provides several advantages over other types of vises, enhancing efficiency and functionality in various tasks.
- Stability: A good workbench vise offers exceptional stability, allowing for secure clamping of materials. This stability reduces movement during cutting, sanding, or drilling, leading to more accurate results.
- Versatility: Many workbench vises come with adjustable jaws and additional features, enabling them to handle a variety of tasks and materials. This versatility makes them suitable for woodworking, metalworking, and other DIY projects.
- Ease of Use: Most workbench vises are designed for quick and easy operation, often featuring a smooth screw mechanism for tightening and loosening. This user-friendly design saves time and allows for efficient workflow.
- Durability: High-quality workbench vises are built from robust materials, providing long-lasting performance even under heavy use. Their durability ensures that they remain reliable tools for years, making them a worthwhile investment.
- Space-saving Design: Many workbench vises can be mounted flush with the work surface, saving valuable workspace. This design allows for unobstructed access to the work area, making it easier to manipulate larger projects.
- Increased Safety: By securely holding materials in place, workbench vises minimize the risk of accidents and injuries during tasks. This safety feature is particularly important when working with power tools or sharp implements.
Which Bench Vises Are Best for Woodworking and Crafting?
The best vises for woodworking and crafting offer stability, ease of use, and durability.
- Woodworking Vise: A dedicated woodworking vise is designed specifically for holding wooden workpieces securely.
- Quick Release Vise: This type features a mechanism that allows for rapid adjustments, making it ideal for projects with multiple setups.
- Tail Vise: Commonly found on workbenches, it provides versatility and can hold wide boards or accommodate various workpieces.
- Pegboard Vise: This vise is ideal for smaller projects, attaching directly to a pegboard and providing flexibility without taking up bench space.
- Screw Vise: Known for its traditional design, this vise is reliable for holding pieces firmly without slipping, making it a favorite among woodworkers.
A woodworking vise is essential for any craftsman, as it is specifically engineered to grip wooden materials without causing damage. These vises often have wooden jaws that provide a softer grip, preventing denting or marking on the workpiece.
The quick release vise is particularly advantageous for woodworkers who need to frequently reposition their materials. Its lever mechanism allows users to quickly disengage and re-engage the vise, saving valuable time during complex projects.
A tail vise is an excellent addition to any workbench, as it allows for the clamping of large or irregularly shaped boards. Its unique design permits the user to secure workpieces at different angles, enhancing the versatility of the workbench.
The pegboard vise is a practical solution for smaller workshops, as it can be mounted on a pegboard and easily removed when not in use. This flexibility is perfect for hobbyists who may not have a permanent workspace.
A screw vise represents a classic choice, appreciated for its straightforward functionality and robust construction. Its sturdy design ensures that it can withstand significant pressure without losing grip, making it ideal for heavy-duty woodworking tasks.
How Do They Handle Different Types of Materials?
When selecting the best vise for a workbench, it’s important to consider how they handle different types of materials:
- Wood Vises: Designed specifically for woodworking, these vises typically have wooden jaws that prevent marring and damage to the wood surface. They provide a secure grip on soft materials and often feature quick-release mechanisms for ease of use.
- Metalworking Vises: Constructed from heavy-duty materials, metalworking vises have hardened steel jaws meant for gripping metal pieces tightly without slipping. They come with features like swivel bases for versatility and may include built-in anvil surfaces for shaping and hammering metal.
- Pipe Vises: Used for securing pipes and cylindrical materials, pipe vises have a unique jaw design that conforms to the shape of the pipe. They are essential in plumbing and metal fabrication, providing a strong hold that prevents rotation during cutting or welding tasks.
- Combination Vises: These versatile tools can handle a variety of materials, combining features of both woodworking and metalworking vises. They often include interchangeable jaws and can be adjusted to accommodate different workpieces, making them suitable for multi-purpose use.
- Bench Vises: Commonly found in workshops, bench vises are typically mounted to the workbench for stability. They can grip various materials, including wood, metal, and plastic, and are available in different sizes and jaw configurations to suit specific project needs.
What Unique Features Should You Consider in a High-Quality Vise?
When selecting the best vise for a workbench, several unique features should be carefully considered to ensure optimal performance and durability.
- Jaw Width: The jaw width of a vise determines the size of the workpieces it can accommodate. A wider jaw allows for larger materials, which is beneficial for various projects, while a narrower jaw may provide greater precision for smaller tasks.
- Jaw Depth: The depth of the jaws affects the maximum clamping force and stability of the workpiece. Deeper jaws can hold thicker materials more securely, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications.
- Material Quality: The construction material of the vise plays a crucial role in its durability and longevity. High-quality cast iron or steel vises provide strength and resistance to wear, while plastic or lower-grade metals may not withstand heavy use.
- Ease of Use: Features like a quick-release mechanism or smooth operating screw can significantly enhance user experience. A vise that operates smoothly allows for fast adjustments and increased efficiency during work.
- Base Stability: A heavy and stable base is essential to prevent the vise from tipping or moving during use. A wide base or mounting options can help secure the vise firmly to the workbench, enhancing safety and effectiveness.
- Swivel Base: A swivel base allows the vise to rotate and hold workpieces at various angles, making it versatile for different tasks. This feature is particularly useful for intricate work that requires precise positioning.
- Clamping Capacity: The clamping capacity refers to the maximum size of the workpiece the vise can hold. A higher clamping capacity is essential for accommodating larger materials and varying project requirements.
- Finish and Coating: A protective finish or coating, such as powder coating or black oxide, can help prevent rust and corrosion, extending the life of the vise. It also enhances aesthetics and provides a smoother surface for workpieces.
What Are the Mistakes You Should Avoid When Selecting a Vise for Your Workbench?
When selecting the best vise for your workbench, there are several common mistakes to avoid:
- Choosing the Wrong Size: Selecting a vise that is too small or too large for your workbench can lead to inefficiencies in your work. A vise that is too small may not provide adequate clamping power for larger projects, while an oversized vise can take up valuable space and make tasks cumbersome.
- Neglecting Material Quality: Opting for a vise made from inferior materials can result in a product that wears down quickly or fails under pressure. High-quality vises are typically made from cast iron or steel, which ensure durability and longevity, providing reliable performance over time.
- Ignoring Jaw Design: Different jaw designs serve various purposes, and choosing the wrong type can hinder your work. For instance, a smooth jaw is better for delicate materials, while a serrated jaw provides a stronger grip for rougher items; understanding the requirements of your projects can guide your choice.
- Overlooking Mounting Options: Failing to consider how the vise will be mounted can lead to stability issues during use. A vise should be securely fastened to the workbench, so checking for compatibility with your bench style and ensuring you have the right mounting hardware is crucial.
- Not Evaluating the Clamping Mechanism: The clamping mechanism is vital for the performance of the vise, and not testing it can lead to frustration. A good vise should operate smoothly and securely, so look for features like a quick-release lever or a screw mechanism that suits your working style.
- Disregarding Portability Needs: If you require a vise that can be moved or stored easily, ignoring portability can limit your workspace flexibility. Consider whether you need a bench vise or a portable option, as some vises are designed specifically for easy removal and transport.
- Skipping Reviews and Recommendations: Relying solely on brand reputation without checking reviews can lead to poor choices. Researching user experiences can provide insights into the functionality, durability, and potential issues of a vise, helping you make a well-informed decision.