vise base

[kerr]

I have found a big ol real nice shape older craftsman vise in a pawnshop . I didn't think to look for a number or anything on it .I like it as it is a more square type with a 3x5 or so whoopin pad on the rear of it .

Jaws open up to about a foot wide , jaws were only 6" . The dang thing dont have a base with it ! I figure I could make one out of plate but it would be a pain. What are the chances of finding a proper base for it ? I offered $20.00 he wanted $40.00 . Its a kick **** vise but without a base of somekind it just wont do.

What would you do ? Get it ,find a base or make one or just keep looking for another ?

Kerr

 

[454ragtop]

Sounds like a late Chinese vise, hence the missing (probably broken) base. I'd keep looking.
Jim

 

[dumper]

I would post a picture of it here, so we can try and help you decide.

 

[kerr]

You know what the guy wont let anuone take pics in the pawn shop . Beats me why but he wont . I guess I am really asking what are my chances of finding a base for it ? Its not a cheapie I dont think very heavy . Can bases be ordered for it from someplace or would you guys who know these things just have to see it first ?

I guess I am hopeing that the base would fit many differant vises .

Kerr

 

[kerr]

O-well , went to get it and its gone . Missed the boat on that one . Thanks anyways guys.

kerr

 

[Packard V8]

To some, a swivel base is a must. To me, a vise missing the base is a chance to get a great deal, since I seldom-to-never use the swivel feature.

As an example, I picked up a big Rock Island because it was missing the swivel base. I got a 1" bolt to go down through the center hole and two 1/2" bolts to go down through where the swivel locks would have been. The result is hell-for-stout, because it sits lower on the bench, it's noticeably more resistant to lateral forces, and it ain't never ever going to slip and twist.

Your opinions and results may vary.

jack vines

 

[dumper]

Had you actually bought that vise, you would have found out that a replacement base would probably cost 2-3 times what you paid for the vise! It is usually not worth doing. For instance, I recently sold a 5-1/2" Craftsman made-in-USA swivel bench vise that I bought 20yrs ago, still in excellent condition, for $50. They show up every now and then, from $20 and up. Keep searching craigslist...forget about pawn shops, imho. Also, don't be afraid of direct-mount vises- they work GREAT!