9 Best Drill Press Vises of 2024

The body is made from some of the most robust materials to help it withstand daily use. And it is safe both for you and your unit, preventing any untoward incidents. But the best part is the high maneuverability, enabling you to get the precise outcome in your work.

However, you may be wondering how to choose from the many products that are dotting the market, right?

Listed below are the top 5 recommendations for the best drill press vises:

• Performance Tool Drill Press Vise: Experience precision with a 2-1/2" jaw width and smart design. Occasional instability in surface filling and screws coming loose may pose challenges.
• Wen Drill Press Vise: Achieve a stable grip and versatile functionality while staying mindful of potential bolt looseness and occasional plate issues.
• Wilton Drill Press Vise 11694: Optimize projects with excellent maneuverability despite encountering limitations on sled movement and potential wobbling.
• Delta Drill Press Vise: Efficiently handle workpieces using a 4" jaw and quick-release button, while remaining mindful of potential instability in the sliding side and occasional wobbling.
• HFS Drill Press Vise: Embark on heavy-duty tasks with high-pressure endurance and a cross-travel feature, acknowledging the potential for a learning curve and occasional operation hiccups.

Here's the list of the 9 best drill press vises on the market today, complete with all the important features and specifications you need to know.

1. Performance Tool Drill Press Vise - Best for Overall Performance

In the runners-up spot, we have picked the Performance Tool Drill Press Vise, which shares several similarities with our top recommendation. But it does come with numerous upgrades, which have propelled it to the top of the charts. It combines sturdiness with a smooth performance to generate positive reviews from users.

To start, the etched smart jaw design will not only enable you to get more accuracy in your projects, but you will also be safe. Rather than holding down your workpiece yourself, as seen in many other models, the grasping ability of the uniquely designed jaws will take care of that.

The jaw's texture enhances the gripping ability, and because it is complemented by the 2-1/2" jaw width, you won't have to worry about the materials slipping out while drilling. Moreover, thanks to the pivot handle, you will get smooth performance due to the natural turning function.

You can use it for diverse projects, thereby providing a high degree of versatility, which goes hand-in-hand with user-friendliness. Along with its robustness helping to prevent damage during work, you get an effortless installation that allows you to continue working without wasting much time. So, it scores high on the efficiency meter.

The surface filling is not right, which could lead it to be unstable on occasion. You may not like it if you have to keep adjusting it, which could prove to be an inconvenience. Furthermore, after handling several projects, you may find that the screws could come loose, so you'll have to keep an eye on that.

2. Wen Drill Press Vise - Best for Compatibility & Stability

Taking the final podium spot, we have the Wen Press Vise, a highly compatible unit that allows you to perform many tasks with ease. Sporting a universal design, you can equip it with several drill press machines to get the desired output on the most intricate jobs, making it a valuable acquisition.

Right away, the cast iron construction makes it suitable to handle various types of work environments without experiencing any significant damage. You can rest assured it will last a long time, and you will also get a safe operation. And speaking of performance, the 3" jaw volume will fit on most materials.

You can then use the 1' throat depth to hold onto these materials and carry out the required drilling. The stable grip makes sure that the content doesn't slip, and you are guaranteed to get a precision performance. So, it is no surprise that you can use it with a great deal of versatility to get great results.

Plus, four onboard mounting plates come in handy to make the installation process much more manageable. You can assemble the components quickly and get down to work, which is sure to please most buyers.

You need to be very careful and make frequent checks after completing your day's work. We have received reports that the bolts may loosen up due to the vibration, which is a downside. Also, the plate is loose and, on occasion, may hamper the stability you need on your projects.

3. Wilton Drill Press Vise 11694 - Best for Efficient Maneuverability

Having gone through our top three products, it's time to look at the Wilton Drill Press Vise, which just missed the cut. But there can be no doubts about the performance you'll get due to the uniquely designed jaws. It has several other additions, making it one of the models on everyone's wish list.

Straight away, you'll get excellent maneuverability due to its ability to move across two axes allowing for increased drilling activity. As a result, your workpiece can move according to the task's demands, thereby ensuring you get a precise performance by placing the material in the correct position.

Furthermore, the 4" jaws feature a V-grooved design enabling you to hold down the material you're working on securely. Moreover, they are replaceable and made of hardened steel to withstand even the toughest of jobs and last for a long time. Adding to the robustness is the cast iron construction, which makes the entire unit reliable.

Likewise, it features cast side knobs having 1" increments making it compatible with a range of drill presses. So, you get great versatility while the pivot handles make sure you can apply more pressure if you need to. Finally, the installation process is easy, as well.

You won't be able to move the sleds to the extreme left or right, which could affect maneuverability but not much. By using the extreme positions, your unit may start to wobble more, which will affect the output. So, many users will want to consider other options offering more flexibility.

4. Delta Drill Press Vise - Best for Large Work Capacity

The Delta Drill Press Vise comes with a large work capacity, which gives it the ability to hold varied workpieces. Whether it be metal or wood, you will get a terrific performance, and combined with the durable construction; you can enjoy it for a long time.

Firstly, the most critical aspect is that it's incredibly safe. Unlike other models where you'll have to hold down your workpiece, increasing the risk of injuries, you can use the 4" jaw capacity to hold any material firmly. Plus, thanks to the cast iron construction, it will last a long time.

Along with that, there is a quick-release button, something not seen with other units. It makes for smooth performance and ensures you have no problem removing any of the materials. Further adding to the output is the vibration-resistant feature, which prevents any unnecessary movements.

So, you get the desired stability allowing you to drill precise holes into various materials without much effort. Besides, you'll love the fact that it is affordable despite having numerous functions. Delta has managed to keep the price within reasonable limits to cater to a broad audience.

We have seen that the sliding side of the clamps is unstable, leading to complications during work. And so, despite having vibration resistance, you may encounter wobbling making it hard to get accurate results, which will not please many buyers. So, it raises safety concerns as well, and you'll have to be mindful of cuts.

5. HFS Drill Press Vise - Best for High-Pressure Resistance

Being made from the best materials gives the HFS Drill Press Vise the ability to withstand a lot of pressure. Whereas other models would bend under the load of work, it won't face any such problems and can deliver consistently, thereby endearing it to users.

Right away, the ability to endure up to 80000PSI pressure makes it one of the sturdiest units in the market. Likewise, the tensile iron construction prevents bending even after regular use on the toughest of jobs. Furthermore, it has serrated steel blades, which will last a long time and ensure you get a firm grip on any material.

Meanwhile, it comes with a cross-travel feature allowing for multi-axis movement enabling you to carve out any form accurately. And with the help of the adjustable gibs, you'll get the desired flexibility to take on different projects, making it very versatile. Moreover, the jaws have a 3" capacity to hold down most materials.

As a result, you get a stable performance, which complements the versatility on offer. Additionally, it has a rotating cutter, which effectively eliminates unwanted materials such as wood, metal, and other solid pieces.

It could be challenging to get used to it initially, which may prove to be problematic. So, you may not want to use it full throttle at the start, but instead, take your time. Plus, you may not get a smooth performance on occasion, proving to be a contentious issue for some.

6. Shop Fox Drill Press Vise

We have reached the halfway point, but there are still numerous top-notch products to go through. In this regard, we have chosen the Shop Fox Drill Press Vise to feature next on our list due to the fantastic functions it comes with. It's no surprise then that it has made a name for itself in the market.

First and foremost, you'll like the fact that you also get an excellent capacity along with grip. It means that despite having the ability to accommodate a lot of materials, there won't be any compromises when it comes to grasping. The jaws are perfectly aligned and supported by the adjustable gibs you get exceptional flexibility.

The significant addition is the inclusion of a slide bar, which prevents the jaws from getting out of position when you're tightening it. As a result, you will get the desired precision in most tasks to make your work stand out. Plus, it is very versatile, and you can use numerous materials.

Meanwhile, Shop Fox has paid attention to durability and flaunts a muscular design, making it great for milling operations. It also means that you'll be able to exert the necessary pressure without spending too much energy, enabling you to use it for long hours.

Now, because it is quite muscular to enhance durability, it means it packs a bit more weight than usual. Weighing in at 22 lbs, you may feel uncomfortable owning a more substantial tool than average. It's not a significant issue, but if you want a lighter unit, you will have to look elsewhere.

7. Palmgren Drill Press Vise

The Palmgren Drill Press Vise sticks to the basics and provides you with a reliable option in the workshed. It is made from quality material, meaning there is no compromise on durability, while the jaws enable you to get a steady output. You'll love all these and more it has to offer.

Firstly, the jaws are well-aligned, meaning that you can perform accurate cut-outs on the materials you're working on. It provides you with a 4" jaw capacity and 1-3/4" throat depth, which is excellent for effectively holding down large materials. Adding to the stability are the grooved jaws that stop the content from moving, thereby preventing accidents.

Moreover, it is incredibly versatile, making it ideal for carrying out numerous tasks like drilling, countersinking, counterboring, reaming, and spot-facing. The crucial upgrade is the vertical T slot and three transverse 3/8" T slots allowing you to get a smooth operation, speeding up the time it takes to complete work.

Likewise, it's made from quality materials to feature a robust exterior that can handle the daily demands of work. But that doesn't mean you'll have problems with portability, thanks to the compact design allowing you to move it from one spot to another.

Some users have reported that it may be too small for their liking, which could reduce the buyer base. You may prefer a tool with a more massive build prompting you to consider other options. Also, as with many models, it may break down after regular use, which is usually unavoidable.

8. Wilton Drill Press Vise 11674

We are down to the final three products, and the next spot on our list goes to the Wilton Drill Press. Apart from the usual features, it has made some excellent upgrades that have helped it climb the charts. Most people have taken an active interest in finding out what more it has to offer.

Straight off the bat, the 4" jaw capacity will catch your eye, which is the reason it works well as an industrial-grade tool. Along with that, the fact that it's 7.5" long and 7.3" wide makes it ideal for tackling most projects. Moreover, it has cast iron castings, ensuring that you can use it for a long time.

Likewise, the jaws are made from steel and provide an excellent grip against any material. Adding to the grip is the V-groove design enabling you to move it both horizontally and vertically to hold down materials of various shapes. Plus, the screws are coated with black oxide to provide more stability under different conditions.

Besides, it has a throat depth of 1.5" making it incredibly efficient. Therefore, it speeds up your work, and you don't have to spend too much time on any one task. Lastly, it scores high on the versatility meter, allowing you to get a vast range in your work.

Now, because the jaws are more comprehensive than the body, it tends to wobble when you use it on one side. You may have difficulties in getting the desired precision in such instances. Additionally, the handle is long, making adjustments difficult, and you'll have to continually maneuver it for the best results.

9. Bora Drill Press Vise

The final product we have for you is the Bora Drill Press Vise, which comes with functions that have helped it stand out. It has state-of-the-art features and a modern design to back it up, and it has quickly climbed the ladder to become one of the most prominent tools in the market.

Firstly, the 4" clamping capacity means that it can get through most materials without much difficulty. You can, therefore, use it for drilling or reaming among other tasks, and, thanks to the non-marring pads, you get a lot of versatility. Moreover, it has a colorful handle, which does more than just look good.

The handle features a soft grip making long working hours possible, and you can pivot it sideways, enabling you to apply more pressure. The significant addition is the inclusion of the quick-release button, which cuts down on the time it takes to complete a job. You can press down on it to make the vise open and close faster.

Now, coming to the design, it has a die-cast aluminum body while the central screw is made from chrome-plated steel, meaning that it can last longer. The jaws, too, are made from steel, so that they can withstand the daily demands of work.

Despite having numerous features to beef up the durability, you'll get the best performance on light-duty tasks. If you are someone who needs to attend mainly heavy-duty work, you'll be best off considering some other option. Consequently, it may keep away a section of buyers.

What Is the Best Drill Press Vise?

This table compares the key attributes of various drill press vises, including jaw width (in inches), jaw opening (in inches), throat depth (in inches), material composition, and weight (in pounds).

Buying Guide for the Best Drill Press Vises

Before you venture into the market, we would like to give you a couple of pointers to help you pick the right unit. Drill press vises have many components that could make it difficult for you to distinguish between the top products and the merely good ones.

We are here to discuss the essential aspects based on which we have formulated our list. A piece of knowledge about these functions will place you in good stead and help you make an informed choice.

Durability

Your tool must be durable to handle the wear and tear of daily use. Drill press vises will have to deal with all types of tasks: drilling, reaming, countersinking, tapping, and milling. It should be no surprise that only quality materials must be used for construction to ensure it doesn't break down.

Buying any tool is an investment, so you cannot afford to spend time or money frequently on a new one. You must enjoy both the product and the components that come with it for a long time.

In that regard, the manufacturers cannot afford to make any compromises. So, just having a steel or aluminum construction is not enough. It must be able to withstand the pressures of work and deliver faultless output.

Ease of Use

Drill press vises come in various sizes to handle an array of tasks, but that shouldn't mean the designers have to compromise with user-friendliness. The primary objective of any unit is to reduce your workload, and therefore you must be able to control it effectively to get the best results.

All the components and functions must be understandable, almost at a glance. You should know what each part does rather than pondering over how to get it right. Plus, the installation process, along with the disassembly, must be written clearly to ensure it is uncomplicated.

There is no point in having a plethora of functions if the users find it challenging to use. Rather any good model must keep the basics right and then add the necessary features to deliver a better performance.

Safety

Finally, it must be safe to make sure you get through your work quickly. Drilling, milling, tapping, and countersinking are tedious, so you cannot afford to go about it at a leisurely pace.

You have a lot of work to do, and your unit must have the necessary power to ensure you get a cracking performance. More power doesn't always guarantee better performance, so you must have the ability to control the force you need on various tasks. As a result, your tool will be versatile, enabling you to handle small-scale and large-scale projects.

The ability to control the pressure means that you will get the required grip without experiencing any untoward incidents. It will be safer for you without compromising on the performance.

Can a drill press vise be used on other tools besides a drill press?

Thank you for reading our article on the best drill press vises.  We hope it has provided you with valuable insights to make the right choice for your drilling requirements. With numerous options and factors to consider, we've done our best to bring forward the top products to make your decision-making process more manageable.

We truly appreciate your time in going through our detailed reviews, which we believe will help you make the best choice based on your needs, budget, and preferences.

As you embark on your drilling journey, remember that proper maintenance and care are essential for ensuring the longevity of your drill press vise. Regular checks and adjustments ensure that you get the best performance, stability, and precision from your chosen tool. In the long run, the best drill press vise is the one that meets all your individual needs while providing the highest quality and accuracy.

Once again, thank you for investing your time in reading our article. We wish you the best of luck in your future drilling projects. Make sure to try out our top recommendations, and let us know if they live up to your expectations. Happy drilling!