Punked by a vise!

[joe.striper]

So last night about 1AM I saw an ad on Craigslist advertising two vises at $20 each. I could have sworn that the one pictured here was a Reed 402 1/2 swivel back. I couldn't make out the markings well in the pic, but after matching it up with other vises on line I thought I had a home run! Called the seller at 9AM (who didn't know **** about vises), agreed to drive the 20 miles and meet him at noon. Got out there and this was an old Chinese (I assume) copy with no marking of any kind. The swivel base was adjusted by a pull up knob on the backside. I was s-o-o-o irritated with myself!

Sure looks like the real deal doesn't it? To top it all off the vise neck had cracked and been welded. Grrrrr!

Good news is that last Saturday I did pick up this Blacksmith's vise in excellent condition for $50.00. My very first one!

 

[zoomieport]

Post some more pics of the welded one? Prentiss made a lot of "unmarked" vises... I'd like to see the "front" and the "swivel lock", if you don't mind...
Thanks!
ZOOM

 

[bl00]

That looks like a Prentiss to me. The old ones used a knob to release the swivel base.

 

[joe.striper]

Thats the one. I left it where I found it. It was rusted up pretty good and the moveable jaw had cracked right where it met the shaft. I have absolutely no doubt it was an unmarked Prentiss. The welding job was quite good but I just didn't see where it made sense for $20.

Should I go back and get it?

 

[joe.striper]

Oh well, now I just got really punked. Guy sold it for $10 tonight. He had two other vises, both Chinese junk, so I assumed...I guess I can sleep ok because it was real rough, at least thats what I'll tell myself... Thanks for your help and education

 

[zoomieport]

A broken vise is a broken vise, I don't care who made it... You saved $20, IMO.

 

[zoomieport]

Although, parts are always needed on the "Vise" thread... But anyway!