using a leg vise

[martin.h]

Hi all,
I'm new but have lurked for a while and learnt a lot. I'm designing a workbench for myself, as part of my workshop project. I've watched and read a bit of the Schwarz and like the idea of a 7' chunky Roubo with a leg vise at front, a deadman and a vintage QR as tail vise. Has anyone experience of using a leg vise? I'm a bit worried about adjusting the pin too much (as well as screwing the (wooden) screw). My back is not in the best of health, but manageable. Mr Schwarz says that he doesn't hardly adjust the pin because he works mainly in the 3/4 inch thick timber. I imagine I'll use a wider range of thicknesses. As far as I can work out my other alternatives are a large QR with big chop or twin screw job. I really like the look of a leg vise though.
Martin

 

[Jacob]

Picturesque and interesting they may be, but cheap or practical they aint.
Record 53e is a much better option for actual woodwork.

 

[marcros]

they can be cheap enough if shop made- price of a vice screw.

You could look at the "st peters cross" idea to remove the pin. Douglas (condeesteso) made a leg vice and has some first hand knowledge. Mine is still part completed!

 

[martin.h]

thanks for the quick replies.
Jacob, not sure what you mean by 'actual' woodwork. Marcros, do you have a link/ref for the st peters cross ?
cheers
Martin

 

[Jacob]

....
Jacob, not sure what you mean by 'actual' woodwork. ....

What I meant was that if you want a vice just for actual woodwork then the 53e (and similar) are the best. Roubo benches and leg vices aren't going to make your woodwork any better - interesting and picturesque though they may be.
The 53e (and similar) have a wide opening, quick release, strong screw, resistance to racking, and are indestructible.

 

[marcros]

You will have to do some research online- I have seen some stuff on a blog somewhere with it on but I cant remember where. I wasnt searching for that, instead i was probably looking at leg vices, so worth looking at both searches.

for starters there is http://benchcrafted.blogspot.co.uk/2012 ... ys_24.html
there is also a mention in the Schwarz book (if you don't have a copy i can scan the part page on monday). There may also have been details on the forum.

couple more links

http://www.popularwoodworking.com/woodw ... g/st-peter’s-cross-and-the-ultimate-leg-vise
http://www.theenglishwoodworker.com/?p=206

 

[martin.h]

thanks marcros

 

[Racers]

Hi, Martin.h

Ignore Jacob he doesn't like any body to have any thing nice, it you want a leg vice then get one.

If some one near you has one I am sure they would let you have a play with it, so you could see what they are like.

I have heard they grip very well.

A high bench is best if you suffer with a bad back so it night not be to bad.


Pete

 

[Phil Pascoe]

I thought Jacob's comments were logical and perfectly sensible.