10 Best Bench Vises 2026 in the United States

The Yost HD550-C is a sturdy, heavy-duty bench vise designed mainly for mechanics and serious woodworkers or metalworkers. It features a 5.52-inch jaw width and can open jaws up to 5.3 inches, offering a decent size range for gripping various materials. The throat depth of 3.82 inches allows you to hold moderately deep pieces securely. Made from cast iron with a very high tensile strength of 60,000 PSI, this vise is built to last and withstand tough tasks. Its interlocking swivel base adds flexibility by letting you rotate the vise easily, which is helpful when working on different angles without moving your workpiece.

The large anvil surface on the back is an added bonus, providing a flat area for hammering or shaping metal. Weighing just over 50 pounds, it is heavy enough to stay stable during use but might require a sturdy bench to support it. Some users might find the size limits less suitable for very large projects, but it provides a secure, reliable grip for most workshop tasks. Its replaceable pipe jaws add versatility for clamping round objects.

Proper setup and safe use are important to avoid injury, as with all heavy vises. If you are looking for a solid, durable vise for medium to heavy-duty mechanical or woodworking work, this Yost model delivers a strong balance of power, durability, and functionality.

The Forward CR80A 8 Inch Bench Vise is designed for those needing a durable and versatile tool for heavy-duty tasks, making it an excellent choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professional tradespeople. One of its main strengths is its robust construction from premium ductile iron, which ensures it can withstand tough working conditions. With a jaw width of 8 inches and a jaw opening of 9 inches, it provides ample space for a variety of workpieces. The vise boasts a substantial clamping force of 12,000 lbs, which is particularly useful for securing heavy materials without slipping.

Its 190-degree swivel base enhances usability, allowing users to easily adjust angles for complex projects, while the large reinforced anvil adds to its functionality for tasks like cutting and tapping. The inclusion of multiple well-machined jaws, including replaceable serrated and built-in pipe jaws, further adds to its versatility, ensuring a secure grip on different shapes and sizes.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. The vise weighs 56.6 pounds, which may be cumbersome for some users to handle or reposition. Additionally, while it is easy to mount on workbenches, the size might limit its use in smaller workshops or spaces. The Forward CR80A is a strong contender in the bench vise category, particularly for heavy-duty applications, offering excellent construction and functionality. It's best suited for users who frequently work with large, heavy materials and need a reliable tool that can handle demanding tasks.

The VEVOR Bench Vise is a solid choice for anyone looking for a sturdy and versatile tool. With a jaw width of 6 inches and a jaw opening of 5.9 inches, it offers ample space for a variety of tasks. The throat depth of 3.5 inches is sufficient for most everyday uses. One of its standout features is the 360-degree swivel base, which allows you to position your workpiece at any angle, providing great flexibility and accuracy without the need to constantly reposition the item you are working on.

The vise is crafted from 60,000 PSI ductile iron, which ensures durability and strength, while the powder coating helps prevent rust. The carbon steel jaw plates are replaceable, offering a strong grip on materials. The anvil area is also quite generous, adding to its functionality for hammering and shaping tasks. Users will appreciate the included accessories like nuts, screws, and magnetic jaw pads, which make installation straightforward and negate the need for additional purchases.

The vise is versatile enough to handle flat materials and pipes with equal ease, making it suitable for a range of projects from drilling to grinding. At 25 pounds, it is on the heavier side, which might be a consideration for those who need to move it frequently. The VEVOR Bench Vise provides robust performance and flexibility for medium to heavy-duty tasks, making it a great fit for professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts.