Reversible Vices

About Reversible Vices

Reversible vices represent a significant advancement in workshop workholding technology, offering mechanics, engineers and metalworkers exceptional versatility in a single tool. Unlike traditional bench vices with fixed jaw configurations, reversible vices feature innovative jaw designs that can be rotated or flipped to provide different gripping surfaces for various applications. The primary distinguishing feature is the ability to switch between serrated jaws for gripping rough materials and smooth jaws for holding finished or delicate components without marking the surface.

Most reversible vices available from Tooled-Up.com are constructed from fine grey cast iron for the body and sliding jaw assembly, providing the rigidity and stability essential for precision work. The jaw faces, main screw and handle are typically manufactured from hardened steel to withstand the considerable clamping forces required in professional engineering and mechanical work. Many models incorporate 360-degree swivel bases with four-point bench mounting systems, allowing tradespeople to position workpieces at optimal angles without repositioning the entire vice or moving around the bench.

These multi-function vices combine the capabilities of both an engineer's vice and a mechanic's vice in one compact unit, making them particularly valuable in smaller workshops where bench space comes at a premium. The swivel base functionality, combined with reversible jaw technology, means that users can tackle an impressive range of tasks – from filing and grinding metal components to holding delicate finished parts for assembly work – all without changing tools or compromising workpiece integrity.

Jargon Buster

• Reversible Jaws: Jaw faces that can be rotated or flipped to provide either serrated gripping surfaces for rough work or smooth faces for holding finished components without causing damage or marking.
• Swivel Base: A rotating mounting platform, typically offering 360-degree rotation, that allows the entire vice to be repositioned at any angle whilst remaining securely fixed to the workbench.
• Grey Cast Iron: A specific iron alloy prized in vice construction for its excellent vibration damping properties, dimensional stability and resistance to wear under repeated clamping cycles.
• Jaw Capacity: The maximum opening width between the jaws, typically measured in millimetres, which determines the largest workpiece that can be accommodated in the vice.
• Four-Point Mounting: A bench fixing system using four bolts positioned in a square or rectangular pattern, providing superior stability compared to two-point mounting, particularly important when working with heavy components or applying significant lateral forces.
• Throat Depth: The distance from the front of the jaws to the nearest obstruction (usually the main support column), which determines how far back from the edge a workpiece can be gripped.

Who Uses Reversible Vices?

• Vehicle Mechanics: For holding brake components, suspension parts and engine components during maintenance and repair work
• General Engineers: Precision work on machined components, fabrication projects and general metalworking tasks
• Fabricators and Welders: Positioning metal sections at various angles for welding and assembly operations
• Maintenance Technicians: Equipment repair work in industrial and commercial settings where versatile workholding is essential
• Model Engineers: Detailed work on smaller precision components where the ability to switch between jaw types prevents damage to finished surfaces
• Agricultural Engineers: Repair and maintenance of farming equipment and machinery in workshop environments
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home workshop users undertaking metalwork, restoration projects and general maintenance tasks requiring secure workholding
• Educational Facilities: College and training centre workshops where students learn metalworking and engineering skills

How to Choose the Right Reversible Vices

The jaw capacity should be your primary consideration when selecting a reversible vice. Assess the typical size range of components you'll be working with and choose a model with sufficient opening width to accommodate your largest regular workpieces, whilst remembering that excessively large vices can prove cumbersome for smaller precision work.

Construction quality directly impacts longevity and performance. The selection at Tooled-Up includes cast iron models which offer superior rigidity compared to fabricated steel alternatives. Examine the machining quality of sliding surfaces – smooth, precisely machined ways ensure reliable clamping action throughout the vice's service life. Hardened steel jaw faces and screw assemblies significantly extend working life in demanding professional environments.

Consider the swivel base functionality carefully. A 360-degree rotating base with secure locking at multiple positions provides maximum flexibility, particularly valuable in busy workshops where different tradespeople may use the same vice for varying applications. Verify that the locking mechanism operates smoothly and holds securely under load – inferior designs can creep during heavy work.

Mounting requirements warrant attention before purchase. Ensure your workbench can accommodate the four-point mounting pattern and is sufficiently robust to support both the vice weight and the forces generated during use. Most professional reversible vices require bench thickness of at least 40mm for secure installation.

The ease of jaw reversal matters in practical use. Some designs allow tool-free jaw rotation whilst others require loosening fasteners – consider how frequently you'll switch between jaw configurations when evaluating different models. Quick-change systems prove worthwhile if you regularly alternate between rough and finish work.

Popular Accessories

• Magnetic Jaw Protectors: Soft aluminium or copper jaw covers that protect finished surfaces from marking whilst maintaining secure grip
• Bench Mounting Bolts and Washers: Heavy-duty fixings specifically designed for vice installation with appropriate load ratings
• Vice Handle Extensions: Increase leverage for heavy clamping applications without resorting to makeshift extensions that may damage the vice
• Replacement Jaw Faces: Spare serrated and smooth jaw inserts to maintain optimal gripping performance as original faces wear
• Workshop Brushes: Wire and soft brushes for cleaning swarf and debris from jaw mechanisms and swivel bases
• Machine Oil and Grease: Appropriate lubricants for maintaining smooth operation of screw threads and swivel mechanisms
• Bench Matting: Protective rubber or vinyl matting to prevent scratching workpieces and reduce noise during metalwork

Safety Information

Proper installation forms the foundation of safe vice operation. Ensure the vice is securely bolted through a substantial workbench using appropriately sized fasteners with large washers to distribute loads effectively. Inadequately mounted vices can work loose under load, potentially causing serious injury or damaging workpieces.

Never exceed the rated jaw capacity or apply excessive force to the operating handle. Over-tightening can damage both the vice mechanism and the workpiece, whilst attempting to grip materials beyond the jaw capacity risks catastrophic failure. If additional clamping force seems necessary, the vice is likely undersized for the application.

When using the swivel base function, always ensure the locking mechanism is fully engaged before applying force to the workpiece. An unlocked swivel base can rotate unexpectedly during filing, grinding or other operations, potentially trapping fingers or causing loss of control over tools.

Wear appropriate personal protective equipment when working with vices, particularly safety glasses or goggles when filing, grinding or cutting materials held in the jaws. Metal fragments and swarf can be ejected at considerable velocity during these operations. Follow HSE guidance on workshop practices and maintain adequate lighting around the vice area to clearly see workpiece positioning and tool operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a reversible vice and a standard engineer's vice?
Reversible vices feature jaw faces that can be rotated or flipped to provide either serrated surfaces for gripping rough materials or smooth faces for holding finished components without marking them. Standard engineer's vices have fixed serrated jaws. Many reversible models also incorporate swivel bases and multi-function features that combine the capabilities of both engineer's and mechanic's vices in one unit.

How do I maintain a reversible vice to ensure long service life?
Regular maintenance involves cleaning debris from the screw threads and swivel mechanism, then applying appropriate machine oil to the threads and grease to the swivel base bearing surfaces. Periodically check all mounting bolts for tightness and inspect jaw faces for wear or damage. Remove any built-up paint or metal particles from the sliding ways and jaw faces to maintain smooth operation and prevent premature wear.

Can I use a reversible vice for woodworking projects?
Whilst reversible vices are primarily designed for metalworking applications, they can be used for woodworking when fitted with appropriate jaw protectors to prevent marking the timber. However, dedicated woodworking vices typically offer wider jaw faces and deeper throat depths better suited to holding wooden components. For workshops handling both metal and wood projects, the smooth jaw configuration on reversible models provides reasonable versatility.

What jaw capacity should I choose for general workshop use?
For typical home workshop and light professional applications, a jaw capacity between 100mm and 125mm provides excellent versatility, accommodating most common metalworking tasks without becoming unwieldy for smaller precision work. Professional mechanics and engineers working with larger components may require 150mm capacity or greater, though remember that larger vices demand more substantial bench mounting and occupy greater bench space.

Why is cast iron preferred over fabricated steel for vice construction?
Cast iron offers superior vibration damping properties compared to fabricated steel, reducing chatter during filing and grinding operations for improved finish quality and precision. It also provides excellent dimensional stability under varying workshop temperatures and maintains its accuracy throughout years of service. The material's inherent rigidity prevents flexing under heavy clamping loads, ensuring consistent holding power across the full jaw capacity.