[Plasmech]

I've had my eye on this vise:

http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/pid=26704/Product/BISLEY_GUNSMITHING_VISE

I currently have a "Home Depot grade" Wilton 4" utility vise. You know, the kind that has about a mile and a half of backlash in the acme screw. I was thinking of upgrading to a machinist's vise, but they are $500+ and still not optimized for gun work. Any feedback on the Bisley? Thanks!

 

[ken_mays]

What are you trying to accomplish? Depending on your specific use, there are plenty of alternatives that might be a more economical fit.

 

[dcmdon]

??
http://www.harborfreight.com/2-1-2-half-inch-table-swivel-vise-97160.html

or this, which is a bit nicer and still very reasonable:


http://www.harborfreight.com/5-inch-multi-purpose-vise-67415.html

 

[slopemeno]

A vise doesn't have to be high-end. Get a set of non-marring jaws for a decent quality, bolted down vise and you're good to go.

 

[dcmdon]

I used silicone caulk to stick some aluminum angle iron to the steel jaws of my vise. Instant non-marring surface. And if I think the surface of the Al has become embedded with something abbraisive, I just scuff the surface with some sandpaper and wipe it down with mineral spirits.

Don

 

[Ditto_95]

I use one of these when filing or stoning.
Very handy for nearly every task except machining.

http://contenti.com/products/engraving-tools/210-201.html

The large one is very stable when locked.

 

[Jolly Rogers]

A vise doesn't have to be high-end. Get a set of non-marring jaws for a decent quality, bolted down vise and you're good to go.

Agree. Clamp on vises aren't secure enough for me.
Joe