Wilton 500?

[Rickenbackerman]

There's on on CL near me, would make a good addition to my big Columbian 504 1/2. The guy is asking $175. Good deal, or at least fair? Here are a couple of pics from the ad:

<img src="http://images.craigslist.org/3n93md3la5T15W55S3b79b61108292ed61744.jpg">
<img src="http://images.craigslist.org/3pc3of3l35Q25Z35U1b795703806f499a13cd.jpg">
<img src="http://images.craigslist.org/3kc3m33o45Q65W55U0b7982a427a8012d1ef9.jpg">

Why is this one a 500 and not a 500S? Might it be super old?

 

[Arachnotron]

500S would have the swivel base. With that logo it could be '70s or newer.

 

[alex71]

that's a bit high in my opinion, for craigslist. but, if you need a vise, and you need it now, go for it.

 

[Rickenbackerman]

What's a good price then, should I offer him $125? I'd imagine that not having the swivel base should knock a few bucks off...

 

[pj_rage]

I'm sure people will be here telling you not to pay more than $50 or whatever they got theirs for in the YOU **** threads.

The question you need to ask yourself is, what are the odds that will you find an equal or better vise for less money, before you would have needed to use it? If you pass on this one, will you be kicking yourself a year down the road because no better deal has popped up? In other words, how is the market in your area? Do they pop up often? If you wait, is it likely you would find one cheaper? Or is it like the CL market in my area, where vises like this do not pop up all that often, and the ones that do are generally around that price or more?

If you compare the $175 to what a similar vise goes for new, it's a steal. If you compare it to what people on this site have paid for similar vises, it's a ripoff. Tough call. My advice... if you *need* it, buy it and don't look back. If you don't *need* it, and only want it if it's a great deal, pass or offer less money.

 

[Rickenbackerman]

Good advice pj.

 

[autopts]

Good advice pj.

I second it!
That vise is 1980 or newer and if you get it, make sure the jaw supports on the other side arn't cracked off. The 500 will need 14" depth on your bench to bolt on. Thats a healthy vise.

 

[spongerich]

I sold a 500S a few months ago on eBay for $375. It was near mint.
I think $175 is a pretty decent deal for that assuming there's no cracks/repairs etc.

 

[Rickenbackerman]

Welp, I scored it for $150. It's obviously been used very little and is in close to mint condition except most of the paint is gone and a slightly bent handle that I already straightened out. Jaws are flawless and I don't think the anvil has ever been used for any serious pounding of stuff. I already blew it apart to get it ready for cleaning and painting. It's a beast! I think it will become my #1 and replace my Columbian 504 1/2 which will go out in the garage (this one will go in my shop - attached 1-car where do almost all of my work).
Here's a crappy cell pic:

Oh yeah, date is 8 83. For $150, I don't ****, but I'm happy I got it. Not too many of these for sale around here.

 

[-Brent-]

I think that's a hell of a vise for $150.

 

[Catalyze]

Great buy! That is a very nice condition Wilton. Make sure to post your photos as you progress along.
Craig