Numerous people are on the lookout for the best bench vise inside the $100 price range. We performed a study on the best bench vises available for the money and provide our results below.
Bear in mind that this is our list and may not reflect the views of others; we all have our own choices for the finest vise maker
Table of Contents
Top 5 Best Bench Vise Under $100
Our assessments of price vs quality were conducted via the use of consumer websites, manufacturer websites, and discussion forums, among other sources.
We highly encourage you to do your own research in order to get the best bench vise under $100.
Other than these Budget Picks, we also have the full Best Bench Vise Review!
#1 Yost 455 Vise
Features:
- 4.5 inch jaw width
- 0.125 to 2″ pipe clamping
- Light duty
- 360 degrees swivel base
- Replaceable top jaws
- Grooved pipe grip
Review:
There has been considerable dispute about whether Yost vises are produced in the United States or China, and it seems that they are.
Due to its small size and moderate weight, this vise is suitable for minor and light-duty tasks. Many folks suggest greasing the vise immediately upon receipt after purchase. When it is delivered, it is just barely lubricated.
The handle bar seems to be rather fragile, and I’ve read many times that it bends somewhat, but not to the point of being useless.
This Yost swiveled bench vice is adequate for light use or at home; but, for heavier use or in the shop, I suggest a vise with a larger opening.
Only the 4.5′′ is often found for less than $100. The bigger variants of this Yost vise for bench installation are more expensive.
Pros:
- 4.5 inch jaw width
- 0.125 to 2″ pipe clamping
- Replaceable top jaws
- 360-degree swivel
- Cast Iron body
- Small anvil surface
Cons:
- Made in China
- Not for heavy duty jobs
- Needs lubrication
- Crank bar bends a little easy
#2 Tekton 54006 6 Inch Swivel Base Vise
Features:
- 120 degree swivel base
- Available in 4,6 and 8 inch
- Small anvil for light duty use
Review:
The most often reported issue was that the mounting holes in the base were intended to be 3/8 inch in diameter but were really approximately 5/16 inch in diameter.
Numerous people have reported pleasure with this Tekton vise after using it to work on their guns. This kind of evidence suggests that it is designed for light duty applications. Although the anvil is a useful tool, I do not recommend using any vise as an anvil. It is my opinion that it will ultimately cause damage to the cast iron, but I may be wrong.
As a whole, this is a great vice for hobbyists and light users at a price point of less than $100.
We found that the 4 and 6 inch versions are currently available for less than $100. The variant with an 8-inch screen is more costly.
Pros:
- Mounting template included
- Reasonable priced
- Works well
Cons:
- Made in China
- Fixed jaw almost flush with work bench
- Mounting holes are not 3/8 inch but smaller
#3 Performance Tool W3903 Hammer Tough 6″ Bench Vise
Features:
- 5 1/4 inch jaw opening
- Built in anvil
- 360 degree swivel
- Powder coated finish
Review:
The Performance W3903 vise exemplifies the adage “you get what you pay for.” Almost all of their vises are reasonably priced, and the quality is sufficient for light to moderate-duty applications. The finish may be a little harsh at times, and it does need more oil once fitted.
In general, this is a decent bench vise with an effective 360-degree swivel. It is generally suggested to avoid excessive use of the built-in anvil, which we have always advised. Other sizes are available in a number of combinations from Performance.
Numerous Performance vises are available for less than $100. Everything else is same except for the larger machinist spinning vises.
Pros:
- Steel plated jaws
- magnetic jaws
- Fairly priced
Cons:
- Made in China
- Finish is not to good
- Does not fit most drill plates
- Need some greasing
#4 Irwin Heavy-Duty Workshop Vise
Features:
- Cast Iron
- 360 degree swivel
- Built in anvil
- Four holes in the base
Review:
At first, I found it a little daunting to go through all of the information on this Irwin 6 inch bench vise 226306ZR. Certain individuals have raised worry that the picture above is not reflective of what they would get. Genuine item seems to be of superior quality.
The term “heavy duty” in the title is rather deceptive.
This is a multi-purpose vise that is suitable for a wide range of applications. The same may be true about the majority of vises priced under $100. Naturally, you’ll have to spend much more on heavy-duty work. With a 360-degree swivel, this vise is perfect for use at home or in a small shop, such as when working on guns or golf clubs.
In general, this is a respectable vice, and although it is not of the best quality, it is enough for daily use. I found that the manufacturer advises against using the anvil as a “real” anvil and instead to use it for light work. Our overall rating of 4.2 is based on our research across several websites.
For less than $100, we were able to locate Irwin bench vises in sizes 4, 5, and 6.
Pros:
- Irwin quality
- Reasonable priced
- Holds out pretty good
Cons:
- 7% low ratings
- Not Heavy Duty
- Little loose
#5 Wilton 11106 6 Inch Bench Vise
Features:
- Made from steel
- Double lock swivel
- Anvil wok surface
- Weighs 40 pounds
Review:
As the name implies, this vise is made of steel, not cast iron. Although designed for low duty usage, I’ve heard nothing but positive things about how well it stands up in general.
Despite the fact that this vise is not made in the United States, it seems to have originated in the Czech Republic, which may explain why it has garnered so much praise for its quality.
According to a retired tool and die maker, the product is not normal harbor freight quality, since it is much heavier than comparable manufacturers.
There were no problems with jagged edges, as other Chinese-made items have.
Pros:
- Replaceable jaws
- Anvil 4 x 4 inches
- 90% high ratings
Cons:
- Swivels only 90 degrees
- Not made in America?
- Few complaints about bad quality
It is difficult to tell you which bench vise is the best. It all relies on the purpose for which you want to utilize it and the budget you have available.
It’s difficult to locate a bench vise manufactured in the United States these days, since the majority are made in China. If you discover a brand that is still manufactured in the United States, let us know in the comments. You may find them for around $100, like we did in this article, or you can spend as much as you want on the more heavy duty vises.
In general, a bench vise under $100 is better suited for modest household work and not for heavy or industrial usage. In the future, I’ll probably conduct a study of the best bench vises under $200 and see what I can find in the $100 – $200 pricing bracket.
Henry is a long time Trade Instructor at Dunwoody College of Technology. Henry has been teaching the trade of carpentry for over 15 years and is excited to share his knowledge with the next generation of builders. With his posts you will explore some general terms, tools, and techniques that are helpful for the beginning DIY Enthusiast!. He’ll also provide a list of all the best tips needed to start your building journey right away!
