Vises used in Workbench 2.0

Front Vise

Since it's unusual, I thought it might be worth mentioning. It's the Tucker vise sold by Lee Valley. My original plan was simply to buy a Record 53E and mount that. I loved the 52 1/2 used on my first bench. But, the more I began to think about the kind of work I wanted to do on the bench, the more I liked the idea of the added features of a Pattern makers vise. Since I like to build things at different angles and various shapes with hand tools, the benefits of this kind of vise were very attractive. The thing will rotate any way you want, opens automatically, and has a second set of small jaws and a tilting front plate.

The vise is expensive at $500, very well made and thought out. Personally, I think it's overpriced and should be about $300-350. They'd sell a million of them. But, other then a cheaply made import, or if your Grandfather gives you an Emmert, there are no substitutes. However, I have no regrets and would recommend it if you feel you need it and can afford it. I have used every feature many times already and just love it. Mr.Tucker has done a fine job. Still, it's expensive. I have to thank my lovely wife for helping me with this one. Thanks, Lel.

End Vise

End vise is German 1.25" screw and plate assembly. Maximum Tail vise opening between dogs is 82 inches. Construction was using the Tom Nelson method, as outlined in The Workbench Book. Gap opening is 9.5". Vise is 5.5" wide x 4.25" thick. 1/8"s hardboard covers the vise faces. Dog holes are square and sized for 3/4" Veritas metal dogs and shop-made dogs of Maple and Walnut with ash springs.