Columbian 604-m2 vise

[harrytbagger]

Just got this Columbian 604-m2 vise from an older fellow I have befriended. It was a spare one he had, and had been sitting is his shed for 10 years. It came from his father-in-laws machine shop. Shows a little wear and tear but a good cleanup and it should be good to go. Best of all it was free, he just wanted it to go to a good home.

 

[harrytbagger]

Any recommendations on how to straighten out the swivel handle

 

[helterskelter]

Machine a new one is the best way. There's a couple examples on this site. Otherwise just heat it up and bend is as straight as possible. It doesn't need to be perfect unless you plan on taking it to beauty pageants.

 

[Outlawmws]

Use a regular nut to lock the swivel lock, and use the vise itself to press the handle straight. you have to setup to duck the lock nut the handle is on but you can also use it to help with the process.

No heat needed for that small bar.

 

[Outlander]

It doesn't need to be perfect unless you plan on taking it to beauty pageants.

You may be on to something. If someone organised a get-together GJ members could bring their vices for a beauty pageant.

 

[astroracer]

I just took pictures of MY Columbian the other day! My dad got this at a yard sale years ago for 1 dollar... I "kinda" borrowed it and never returned it.

It has been the work horse vise in my shop. Right now it is clamped to one of the jig tables and had the bead roller set up in it.

You will notice MY handle has a double kink in it....
Mark