Replies

1. 
   Frozen | Sep 20, 2004 06:16pm | #1

   The only difference between the vises is the size of the cover plate and the length of the chain. The spacing on the wide version is up to 24", and can be adjusted by taking out chain links. Decide based on your optimum spacing. 

2. 
   SWW | Sep 20, 2004 08:08pm | #2

   If you make the vise jaw as wide as the widest bench option -- nearly 30" --, but have only 16" between the screws, then the jaw will extend some 7" beyond each screw. If you were to clamp something out at one end of the jaw, you would be using the vise as a kind of 7" cantilever. The clamping force of the vise would tend to rack the jaw, with only a couple of relatively small wood screws holding it parallel to the bench.

   I use a Veritas twin screw vise, and I'm very satisfied with its performance. I wanted 24" between centers (I make chairs), so I bought the upgrade to get the extra chain and longer cover. Compared the the considerable cost of the vise, the upgrade is not much more. I used 2" ash for the jaw. The jaw extends a couple of inches beyond the screws on either side. The vise is a huge workhorse! It delivers even clamping pressure across a wide area. I actually have it mounted to the front of the bench, where it's more useful for me. One end of the jaw is flush with the end of the bench, to add to the many clamping capabilities. I have bench dogs in the top of the jaw, opposite to rows of dogs in the bench top. It's such a versitle, powerful vise, I don't know how I ever worked without it. Ok, so you can tell I really like this vise!

   Good luck with your vise.

1. 
   Yotie | Sep 20, 2004 11:28pm | #3

   Thanks SW1....That is the info I am looking for....I would like to go for my widest possible (29 3/4") so it sounds like the 24" version may be the best....

   Don