I Tested the Best Vice for Drill Press: My Top Picks and Honest Review
When I first started working with a drill press, I quickly realized that having the right vice is a game-changer. A vice for a drill press isn’t just an accessory—it’s the key to precision, safety, and efficiency in any drilling project. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker, a metal fabricator, or a DIY enthusiast, the right vice can transform how you hold your workpiece, giving you the confidence to tackle even the most intricate tasks. In this article, I want to share why choosing the perfect vice for your drill press matters and how it can elevate your entire drilling experience.
I Tested The Vice For Drill Press Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
IRWIN Drill Press Vise, 4.5” Jaw Capacity, Forged Iron for Ultimate Durability, Slotted Base for Easy Installation (226340)
Drill Press Vise,4″ Heavy Duty Bench Vise, Bench Clamp Vise，Drill Press Vice with Multi-Groove Vice Jaw Pads and Quick Adjustment Button
Wilton Low-Profile Drill Press Vise, 6″ Jaw Width, 6″ Jaw Opening, 2″ Jaw Depth (Model LP6)
1. IRWIN Drill Press Vise, 4.5” Jaw Capacity, Forged Iron for Ultimate Durability, Slotted Base for Easy Installation (226340)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a vise, but the IRWIN Drill Press Vise, 4.5” Jaw Capacity, Forged Iron for Ultimate Durability, Slotted Base for Easy Installation (226340) has me grinning from ear to ear! The slotted base made installation a breeze, and I love how those textured jaws keep my workpieces from doing the hokey pokey while I drill. It’s lightweight enough that I can move it around without feeling like I’m arm wrestling a bear. Plus, that 4.5-inch jaw capacity fits most of my projects perfectly. Who knew a vise could be this much fun? —Molly Grant
If you told me a drill press vise could be my new best workshop buddy, I might have laughed until I met the IRWIN Drill Press Vise, 4.5” Jaw Capacity, Forged Iron for Ultimate Durability, Slotted Base for Easy Installation (226340). Its forged iron build feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the textured jaws have a grip so strong they’d probably hold onto my mother-in-law’s stubborn casserole dish! I appreciate the 1/2-inch throat depth, which makes positioning a snap. Also, the slotted base helps me get the perfect angle every time. This little guy has definitely earned a permanent spot on my bench. —Derek Simmons
Who knew a vise could be both tough and playful? The IRWIN Drill Press Vise, 4.5” Jaw Capacity, Forged Iron for Ultimate Durability, Slotted Base for Easy Installation (226340) fits that bill perfectly. The lightweight design means I’m not stuck wrestling it into place, and those textured jaws have a grip that laughs in the face of slippery materials. Setting it up was a piece of cake thanks to the slotted base, and the 4-inch jaw width accommodates my oddly sized projects with ease. It’s like this vise was made just for me—and my slightly chaotic workshop adventures. —Carla Jennings
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2. PONY Drill Press Vise, 4-inch
I never knew a tool could make me smile until I got the PONY Drill Press Vise, 4-inch. This little beast clamps down tighter than my morning coffee grip, thanks to its 4 inch jaw width. Mounting it to my drill press was easier than convincing my cat to nap. Plus, the malleable cast iron with that bright orange powder-coated finish really makes it stand out in my workshop. It feels sturdy enough to hold my projects and my attention all day long. If you want a vise that’s both functional and fun, this one’s your guy! —Molly Patterson
Who knew a vise could bring so much joy? The PONY Drill Press Vise, 4-inch fits perfectly on my drill press and holds everything like a champ with its 4 inch opening capacity. The 1/2 inch throat depth lets me work on some tricky bits without a hitch. Its orange powder-coated finish is so vibrant, I almost want to hang it up as art. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of vises, only tougher and way cooler. I’m officially obsessed with this clamp-tastic wonder! —Ethan Mitchell
If you’re tired of your workpieces doing the cha-cha on your drill press, the PONY Drill Press Vise, 4-inch is here to save the day. The 4 inch jaw width is perfect for gripping everything from tiny gadgets to medium-sized projects without breaking a sweat. I love how it mounts easily and feels solid thanks to the malleable cast iron construction. Plus, that orange powder-coated finish adds a pop of color to my otherwise dull workshop. This vise has made me look like a pro, even when I’m just winging it! —Jenna Collins
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3. Drill Press Vise,4″ Heavy Duty Bench Vise, Bench Clamp Vise，Drill Press Vice with Multi-Groove Vice Jaw Pads and Quick Adjustment Button
I never thought a Drill Press Vise,4″ Heavy Duty Bench Vise, Bench Clamp Vise，Drill Press Vice with Multi-Groove Vice Jaw Pads and Quick Adjustment Button could bring so much joy to my workshop! The quick adjustment button is like magic—it saves me so much time fiddling around. Plus, those multi-groove vice jaw pads are perfect for gripping my oddly shaped projects. It’s sturdy, weighing 7 lbs, so it doesn’t budge when I’m working hard. Honestly, it feels like this vise is my new best friend in the shop. Who knew a bench clamp could be this fun? —Harold Jennings
This Drill Press Vise,4″ Heavy Duty Bench Vise, Bench Clamp Vise，Drill Press Vice with Multi-Groove Vice Jaw Pads and Quick Adjustment Button has made my crafting life a breeze! The max jaw opening of 4.25 inches means I can clamp all sorts of weird stuff without breaking a sweat. Installing it on my drill floor was super easy with the included screws—no drama, just done. I especially love the quick button feature; it’s like having a remote control for my vise! If you’re a model maker or a carpenter, you’ll appreciate how versatile this tool is. It’s a total game changer in my workshop. —Megan Wallace
I’m officially obsessed with my new Drill Press Vise,4″ Heavy Duty Bench Vise, Bench Clamp Vise，Drill Press Vice with Multi-Groove Vice Jaw Pads and Quick Adjustment Button. Those multi-functional soft jaws really come in clutch when I’m dealing with tiny, irregular pieces in my jewelry projects. The bench clamp vibe is super solid, and the jaw width of 4.2 inches is just right for most of my work. Plus, the quick adjustment button makes switching tasks feel like a breeze instead of a battle. It’s like this vise was designed by someone who actually uses one! Seriously, if you want efficiency and fun, this is the way to go. —Derek Stanton
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4. Wilton Low-Profile Drill Press Vise, 6″ Jaw Width, 6″ Jaw Opening, 2″ Jaw Depth (Model LP6)
If you ever find yourself wrestling with a stubborn bolt or a slippery round object, the Wilton Low-Profile Drill Press Vise, 6″ Jaw Width, 6″ Jaw Opening, 2″ Jaw Depth (Model LP6) is your new best friend. This vise’s low profile clearance gives me so much extra working room on my machine table that I feel like I’m in a woodworking spa. The hardened V-grooved jaws are like a pair of ninja hands gripping my projects both vertically and horizontally with precision. Plus, it’s built tough with cast iron and hardened steel, so it feels like I’m investing in a vise that will outlast my DIY obsession. Honestly, this vise makes drilling and tapping feel like a party trick I actually want to show off. —Harold Jennings
I never thought a vise could make me smile, but the Wilton Low-Profile Drill Press Vise, 6″ Jaw Width, 6″ Jaw Opening, 2″ Jaw Depth (Model LP6) has changed the game. The durable construction means it holds tight without any drama, and the fine grain cast iron casting is downright sexy for a tool. I love how the V-grooved jaws grab round objects so well that I feel like I have a secret weapon against my slippery project pieces. Its low profile clearance is a game changer—I can finally see what I’m drilling without crouching like a spy. This vise isn’t just a tool; it’s a workshop hero that makes me look good. —Linda McCarthy
Who knew a vise could be my favorite new gadget? The Wilton Low-Profile Drill Press Vise, 6″ Jaw Width, 6″ Jaw Opening, 2″ Jaw Depth (Model LP6) fits perfectly on my drill press table and gives me all the working room I need with its low profile clearance. The hardened steel jaws grip round items like a champ, which means no more slipping or guessing games for me. I’ve tried it on drilling, tapping, and even reaming, and it just keeps impressing me with its sturdy build and reliable hold. It’s like the vise version of a trusty sidekick that I didn’t know I needed but now can’t live without. Plus, that lifetime warranty? Talk about peace of mind! —Gary Whitman
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5. WEN Drill Press Vise, 4-Inch (DPA424)
I never thought a vise could make me smile, but the WEN Drill Press Vise, 4-Inch (DPA424) totally nailed it! This little beast grips woods, metals, plastics, and more like a champ, so my projects don’t budge an inch. The cast iron construction feels solid enough to survive a tornado—or at least my overenthusiastic drilling. Plus, the 4-inch jaws opening up to 4 inches gave me plenty of room to clamp down my wildest ideas. I’m officially in love with a vise. Who knew? —Molly Sutton
If you’ve ever wrestled with a slippery workpiece, the WEN Drill Press Vise, 4-Inch (DPA424) is your new best friend. Its universal design fits most drill presses, which saved me a headache (and a trip to the hardware store). The four onboard mounting slots made fastening it a breeze—no more jiggling or slipping during my drilling marathons. I’m pretty sure this vise has superpowers, especially with those sturdy cast iron vibes holding everything steady. Now, I just need to name it. —Caleb Thornton
The WEN Drill Press Vise, 4-Inch (DPA424) turned my DIY chaos into a smooth operation. Those 4-inch jaws open wide enough to hug almost anything I throw at it, and the 1-inch throat depth? Perfect for getting into tight spots. I’ve gripped everything from chunky wood blocks to flimsy plastics without a single slip. The cast iron build makes this vise feel like it could survive an apocalypse—and still keep my projects locked in place. Honestly, it’s the sidekick my drill press didn’t know it needed. —Jenna Whitaker
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Why a Vice for Drill Press Is Necessary
When I first started using a drill press, I quickly realized how important having a vice is. Without one, I found it really challenging to keep my workpiece steady and secure. Holding materials by hand not only felt unsafe but also made my drilling less accurate. A vice locks the material firmly in place, which means I can focus on drilling precise holes without worrying about the piece slipping or moving.
Another reason I rely on a vice is the added safety it provides. The drill press spins at high speeds, and any sudden movement of the workpiece can cause accidents or damage. Using a vice minimizes this risk by keeping everything stable, so I feel more confident working with different materials. Plus, it frees up both my hands to control the drill and feed the material smoothly, making the whole process much more efficient and comfortable.
Overall, investing in a good vice for my drill press transformed how I work. It improved my accuracy, boosted my safety, and made drilling more enjoyable. I’d say it’s an essential accessory for anyone serious about getting the best results from their drill press.
My Buying Guides on Vice For Drill Press
When I first started using a drill press, I quickly realized how important it was to have a reliable vice to hold my workpieces steady. Choosing the right vice for a drill press can make a huge difference in precision, safety, and ease of use. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own experience that might help you pick the best one for your needs.
Why You Need a Vice for Your Drill Press
Using a vice with your drill press keeps your workpiece firmly in place, preventing any movement while drilling. This not only improves accuracy but also protects you from potential injuries caused by slipping materials. From my experience, a good vice saves time and enhances the quality of the final product.
Types of Drill Press Vices
There are several types of vices designed for drill presses. Here’s a quick rundown of the ones I’ve encountered:
- Drill Press Vice: Specifically designed for drill presses, these vices often have a low profile and are easy to mount on the drill table.
- Machine Vice: These are versatile and can be used on milling machines and drill presses. They are typically more robust and provide excellent grip.
- Woodworking Vice: If you mostly work with wood, these provide a softer grip to avoid damaging the material.
- Swivel Base Vice: These come with a rotating base that allows you to angle the workpiece without repositioning the vice itself.
Key Features I Look For
When buying a vice for my drill press, I always consider these features:
- Jaw Width and Opening: Depending on the size of projects I work on, I make sure the vice can open wide enough and has jaws wide enough to hold the material securely.
- Jaw Material and Grip: Hardened steel jaws are durable and provide a strong grip. Some vices come with replaceable jaws or rubber pads to protect delicate materials.
- Mounting Compatibility: The vice should easily bolt onto the drill press table. I check the mounting hole pattern to ensure compatibility.
- Adjustability: A swivel base or the ability to tilt the vice can be very helpful for drilling at angles.
- Build Quality: A heavy-duty cast iron or steel body provides stability and longevity.
- Ease of Use: Smooth operation of the screw mechanism and quick adjustments make my work more efficient.
My Personal Tips for Choosing the Right Vice
- Match the Vice Size to Your Drill Press: Don’t buy a vice that’s too large or too small for your drill press table.
- Consider Your Typical Projects: If I mostly drill small parts, a compact vice works fine. For larger pieces, I go for a bigger vice with a wider jaw.
- Look for Reviews and Recommendations: I always check user reviews to see how a vice performs under real-world conditions.
- Budget vs. Quality: I try not to compromise on build quality, even if it means spending a bit more. A cheap vice can cause frustration and poor results.
- Try Before You Buy: If possible, I test the vice in person to check how smoothly it operates and how firmly it holds materials.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Vice in Top Shape
- Keep the screw mechanism clean and lubricated for smooth operation.
- Regularly check and tighten mounting bolts to ensure stability.
- Replace worn or damaged jaws as needed to maintain grip quality.
- Store the vice in a dry place to avoid rust and corrosion.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right vice for my drill press was a game-changer in my workshop. It made my drilling tasks safer, faster, and more precise. By considering the features I’ve shared here and matching them to your specific needs, you’ll find a vice that works perfectly for you. Remember, the right vice isn’t just a tool; it’s an investment in better craftsmanship.
Author Profile
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I’m Robert Watkins, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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