Engraving Vise setup

[Brian Jordan]

I added an addition to my bench for a hammer and chisel engraving setup. I wanted to be able to move around the part if solidly mounted in a vise if needed, so the bench is 12" wide. The main vise I use is a Grizzly self centering vise that I made a rotating base for with friction adjustment so It doesn't move while engraving, but can simply be turned by hand in the middle of a cut. I can also adapt my other vises with the swivel base to this set up to make it even more versatile. I wanted the vise assembly to have height adjustment and be solidly locked in place. So I made the height adjustment using 3" diameter tubing. The whole assembly weighs just over 50 pounds so I used a gas spring to assist in raising and lower the vise.










https://youtube.com/shorts/ak_WSuf9qbE

https://youtube.com/shorts/96DFbqNBxDY

[smoke and flames]

as an engraver myself, your set up for hammer and chisel style engraving should work out real good.  I especially like the fact that you are able to raise and lower the vice according to what you are engraving to make is comfortable for yourself.  Good job

[Scota4570]

Anyone make a vice on an automotive wheel bearing assembly?  I use a pneumatic engraver and spin the work in to the tool rather than moving the tool so much.  I made a one with a lady susan, a chink of lead and a small machinist vice.  It worked OK but I think I can do better.