Unusual Small ALUMINUM Vise

[mikeswrenches]

This is the first time I've ever seen an aluminum vise.  The body and moving jaw are both aluminum.  The only steel parts are the two guide rods, the screw and handle, and the jaws themselves.

The body configuration is also different than the normal cast iron versions.  You would think that someone who went to the trouble of making these would have at least put a mark of somekind on it...but nothing.

It looks like it was originally made to be clamped on a bench along with being able to screw it down permanently.  Although reasonably well done, I think the clamp portion has been sawed off.

Jaws are 1 7/8 in. wide and the max. opening is right at 2 in.

Anybody have any idea who might have made it?

Mike

[john k]

I have a small vise, maybe two, made of steel that looks just like yours.  It does appear the clamp has been modified, the name may have been cast into that.   Since aluminum is much easier to cast and work than steel, and would be lighter for shipping, my guess is that its an early Japanese import.   The wear of steel threads in an aluminum body would mean a shorter life.  Possibly why we don't see more of them?   Still an interesting shop tool.  Just my guesses. 

[mikeswrenches]

John, do yours have any marks on them?

Mike

[1930]

I like that vice, is it for sale?

[mikeswrenches]

1930,  I think I'm going to hang on to it for the time being.  I have a collection of these small vises.  I will let you know should I decide to let it go.

Mike

[1930]

Glad to hear that its staying in a good home than

[fflintstone]

That is a neat piece; unfortunately it has a serious flaw. It would look much better highly polished and setting on my desk.