Modular Vise FAQ

This page contains answers to our most commonly asked questions about our Modular Vise System - for more information, see our Modular Vise Knowledge Base.

How do I use the SMW Modular Vise System?

Videos and setup instructions for all versions of our Modular Vise are available on our Knowledge Base here.

What are the recommended torque specs for the Mod Vise?

You can view torque specs for each Mod Vise in our product line in our Knowledge Base article here.

How does the Modular Vise work?

The two tapered clamping screws on the top of the Mod Vise force the vise jaw forward as they're tightened, converting screw torque into clamping force.

You can view an animation of this mechanism in our Knowledge Base article here.

What is the difference between the Gen2 and Gen3 vise? How do I know which I have?

The Gen3 Mod Vise was primarily introduced to allow support for metric fixture plates and non-US customers. For a full overview of the changes, and how to identify your existing vise, see our Knowledge Base article here.

What is the Castle Grip / Turret Grip?

Our Knowledge Base article here gives an overview of each of our Mod Vise clamping hardware options, include the Castle and Turret Grips.

Do you recommend the Jaw Insert Bars, Castle Grips, or Talon Grips for the Modular Vise?

Each of our Accessory Kits include both the Castle Grip and insert bars, which is our recommendation for the most versatile setup. A full overview of each option is available on our Knowledge Base here.

If you're only purchasing one or the other we typically recommend our Mod Vise users towards the insert bar. This is because the Castle Grip leaves visible indentations into the part and aren't always suitable for Op2/finishing workholding.

This 'bite' into the part does mean that the Castle Grip can better resist vertical forces, making them a great option for large plate work or situations where the lower-profile clamping is desired. Desktop and hobby machines (e.g. using our 1/4" or M6 Mod Vise) typically don't see cutting forces high enough to necessitate the Castle Grip, although we still recommend them in cases where low profile clamping is desired. 

How can I convert my single station vise to a dual station?

For complete parts lists for each vise in our product line, see our Knowledge Base article here.

Will the Mod Vise work without a fixture plate or with a non-SMW fixture plate?

Our Modular Vise System requires our standard fixture plate hole patterns - for example, 1/2"-13 tapped and 1/2" bored holes on 1.25" centers.

Generally speaking, the Mod Vise will not work on non-SMW fixture plates. To see the minimum required hole pattern for using the Mod Vise (e.g. for making your own fixtures or comparing your fixture plate), see our Knowledge Base article here.