You are probably right about the smooth jaws. Most of the covers that I have found so far are made to compensate for jaws with rough teeth. (Aluminum, brass, etc.). Probably not much available to do the reverse. I will live with this for a while with smooth jaws and see how it works.
I just obtained a Columbian 604 vise (marked 604-2 inside the static casting) This is in great shape, no bent handles, little wear from usage over the years but no signs of abuse. The jaws are pinned and not attached with screws.
The only Issue I have are the jaws; they are smooth and no...