An Unusual Vice

[rxh]

This vice appears to be shop-made rather than a commercial item. I can find no markings on it. It is evidently made of stock steel sizes. The jaws are 6” x 4” x ½”. The screw is 1” OD x 3 TPI. The guide rods and handle are ½” OD. Has anyone seen one like it?

 

[Cheshirechappie]

The only honest answer I can give is 'don't know', but one thought that does occur is that many a simple tool was made as a training exercise in the Apprentice Training Schools of old. This would be a good one - screwcutting and fitting a square thread and nut, ensuring both guidebars fitted both front and back plates with different fits (one tight, one clearance) and stayed parallel, and some 'nice appearance' work on the boss and handle.

 

[rxh]

Thanks CC - that seems a likely explanation. It is well made and there is no sign of any welding. I suppose some shrink fitting was involved.