Record Gripping Tools

Record Gripping Tools at Tooled-Up.com

Record stands as one of Britain's most trusted names in hand tools, with a heritage spanning over 150 years of manufacturing excellence. The Record Gripping Tools range represents the pinnacle of British engineering, combining time-tested designs with modern materials and manufacturing techniques. From the iconic Record vices that have graced workbenches across the UK for generations to their extensive range of clamps, pliers, and grips, Record continues to set the standard for reliability and durability in workshop gripping solutions.

Tooled-Up.com stocks a comprehensive selection of Record Gripping Tools designed to meet the demanding requirements of professional tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts. The range includes the legendary Record engineer's vices, woodworking vices, and pipe vices, alongside quick-release clamps, G-clamps, sash clamps, and specialist gripping tools. Each product in the Record gripping tools catalogue reflects the brand's commitment to manufacturing tools that professionals can depend on day after day, year after year.

What distinguishes Record from other manufacturers is their unwavering focus on practical functionality and longevity. Record Gripping Tools are engineered to withstand the rigours of professional workshop environments, site work, and industrial applications. The brand's attention to detail—from precision-machined components to heat-treated steel construction—ensures that every vice, clamp, and gripping tool delivers consistent performance throughout its working life.

Why Choose Record Gripping Tools?

Record's reputation has been built on decades of delivering exceptional quality and reliability. Their gripping tools are manufactured to exacting standards, with many products still produced in the UK using traditional craftsmanship combined with modern quality control. The brand's engineer's vices, in particular, are regarded as the gold standard in the industry, found in workshops ranging from small garages to major engineering facilities across Britain.

The durability of Record Gripping Tools represents genuine value for money. Whilst initial investment may be higher than budget alternatives, Record tools are designed for decades of service rather than disposable use. Many tradespeople and engineers still use Record vices purchased 30, 40, or even 50 years ago, testament to the brand's exceptional build quality. This longevity reduces replacement costs and minimises downtime, making Record tools a sound investment for professionals.

Record's innovation in gripping tool design has consistently improved functionality without compromising reliability. Features such as quick-release mechanisms, swivel bases, pipe jaw attachments, and ergonomic handles demonstrate the brand's commitment to making tools that work harder and more efficiently. The extensive range available at Tooled-Up ensures that there's a Record gripping solution for virtually any trade or application.

Who Uses Record Gripping Tools?

Record Gripping Tools serve a diverse range of professional users and applications:

• Engineers and Metalworkers: Precision vices and grips for machining, fabrication, and assembly work
• Joiners and Cabinetmakers: Woodworking vices, sash clamps, and quick-release clamps for furniture making and joinery
• Vehicle Technicians: Bench vices and specialist grips for automotive repair and maintenance
• Plumbers and Gas Engineers: Pipe vices and grips designed specifically for pipe work and installation
• Maintenance Engineers: Portable vices and clamps for on-site repairs and fabrication
• Model Makers and Craftspeople: Smaller precision vices for detailed work and hobby applications
• Educational Institutions: Durable workshop equipment for training the next generation of tradespeople
• DIY Enthusiasts: Reliable gripping tools for home workshop projects and repairs

Key Features of Record Gripping Tools

Record Gripping Tools incorporate numerous features that distinguish them from competitors. The brand's engineer's vices feature precision-ground steel jaws that maintain parallel alignment under load, ensuring secure gripping without workpiece distortion. Many models include replaceable jaw faces and anvil surfaces, extending tool life and protecting finished surfaces.

Quick-release mechanisms on Record vices allow rapid jaw adjustment, saving valuable time during repetitive operations. These mechanisms are engineered for smooth operation and long-term reliability, maintaining their functionality even after years of heavy use. Swivel bases on selected models provide 360-degree rotation with positive locking positions, enhancing versatility for complex workpieces.

The Record clamp range features heavy-duty construction with deep-reach capacities and high clamping pressures. Quick-release trigger mechanisms and ergonomic handles make them easy to operate with one hand, whilst robust frames resist flexing under load. Protective jaw pads prevent workpiece damage, and many clamps can be converted from spreading to clamping functions.

Materials selection represents another area where Record excels. Cast iron bodies provide the mass and rigidity essential for vibration damping during machining operations. Heat-treated steel components ensure wear resistance in high-stress areas, whilst precision manufacturing guarantees smooth operation and accurate alignment.

Popular Record Gripping Tools

The Record engineer's vice range remains the cornerstone of the brand's gripping tools offering. Available in sizes from compact 75mm jaw width models for lighter work through to heavy-duty 150mm industrial vices, these tools represent the benchmark against which all other bench vices are measured. Popular models include the Record No. 3 and No. 4 vices, which have become synonymous with quality engineering worldwide.

Record woodworking vices provide the specialised gripping solutions that joiners and cabinetmakers require. Quick-release mechanisms combined with wooden jaw faces protect delicate timber whilst providing the holding power necessary for precision joinery. Front vices and tail vices are available to suit different workbench configurations and working styles.

The Record G-clamp and quick-clamp ranges offer portable gripping solutions for applications where permanent vice installation isn't practical. From traditional forged G-clamps in various throat depths to modern quick-grip clamps with one-handed operation, these tools provide the versatility that modern workshops demand. Sash clamps and bar clamps extend the range further, enabling the assembly of large panels and frameworks.

Specialist Record gripping tools include pipe vices for plumbing applications, portable vices for site work, and precision instrument makers' vices. This comprehensive range ensures that whatever gripping challenge you face, there's likely a Record tool specifically designed for the task.

Safety and Compliance

Record Gripping Tools are manufactured to meet or exceed relevant British and European safety standards. The robust construction and secure mounting arrangements ensure safe operation when tools are correctly installed and maintained. It's essential that vices are securely fastened to appropriate workbenches using correctly sized fixings, and that maximum clamping capacities are not exceeded.

Regular maintenance enhances both safety and performance. Keep sliding surfaces clean and lightly lubricated, check mounting bolts for tightness, and inspect jaws for wear or damage. When using vices for metalworking operations, always ensure workpieces are securely held before applying cutting or machining forces. The HSE recommends that workshop tools be regularly inspected as part of workplace safety procedures.

Proper use of Record Gripping Tools includes selecting the correct tool size and type for each application. Avoid using cheater bars to increase leverage beyond design limits, as this can damage tools and create safety hazards. When using clamps, ensure even pressure distribution and stable workpiece support to prevent slipping or collapse.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size Record vice do I need for general workshop use?

For most general engineering and metalworking applications, a Record vice with 100mm to 125mm jaw width (such as a No. 4 or No. 5) provides an excellent balance of capacity and practicality. Larger vices suit industrial applications, whilst smaller models work well for lighter duties and space-constrained workshops. Consider the typical size of workpieces you'll be gripping when making your selection.

Are Record vices still made in the UK?

Record maintains UK manufacturing for selected premium products in their range, continuing the brand's British engineering heritage. The specific manufacturing location varies by product line, but all Record tools undergo rigorous quality control to ensure they meet the brand's exacting standards regardless of production facility. The Tooled-Up product specifications indicate manufacturing origin for individual items.

How do I maintain my Record gripping tools?

Keep sliding surfaces clean and apply light machine oil periodically to maintain smooth operation. Remove any paint or adhesive splashes promptly, and protect jaw faces when clamping finished surfaces. Check mounting bolts regularly and retighten as necessary. For vices used in dusty or wet environments, more frequent cleaning and lubrication will extend service life. Properly maintained Record tools can provide decades of reliable service.

Can I get replacement parts for Record gripping tools?

Yes, Record supports their products with comprehensive spare parts availability. Common replacement items include jaw faces, handle bars, and mounting hardware. This commitment to parts support enables repairs rather than replacement, extending tool life and representing excellent value. Contact Tooled-Up for information about specific replacement parts for your Record gripping tools.

What's the difference between Record engineer's vices and woodworking vices?

Engineer's vices feature steel or cast iron jaws designed for gripping metal workpieces, with serrated faces that provide secure holding. Woodworking vices typically have wider, smoother wooden jaw faces that won't mark timber, and often include quick-release mechanisms for rapid adjustment. The mounting arrangements also differ, with woodworking vices designed to integrate with traditional workbench construction whilst engineer's vices bolt directly to bench surfaces.