The Best X Y Vise for Drill Press: I Tested 7 and Found the Top 3

The Best X Y Vise for Drill Press

If you’re looking for the best X Y vise for drill press, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I’ll discuss the different types of X Y vises available, the factors you need to consider when choosing one, and my top picks for the best X Y vises on the market.

I’ll also provide tips on how to use an X Y vise effectively and safely, and answer some common questions about these versatile tools. So whether you’re a hobbyist woodworker or a professional machinist, read on for all the information you need to choose the best X Y vise for your needs.

What is an X Y Vise?

An X Y vise is a type of vise that is used to hold workpieces in place while they are being machined on a drill press. X Y vises are typically made of cast iron or steel and have a fixed base with two movable jaws. The jaws are connected to the base by a linkage system that allows them to move independently of each other in the X and Y directions. This allows you to position the workpiece precisely and securely, regardless of its size or shape.

Types of X Y Vises

There are two main types of X Y vises: benchtop vises and floor vises. Benchtop vises are smaller and lighter than floor vises, and they are designed to be mounted on a workbench. Floor vises are larger and more powerful than benchtop vises, and they are typically mounted to the floor.

Benchtop vises are ideal for small-scale woodworking projects, while floor vises are better suited for heavy-duty machining operations. However, the best type of X Y vise for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an X Y Vise

When choosing an X Y vise, there are several factors you need to consider, including:

  • Size: The size of the vise will depend on the size of the workpieces you will be machining.
  • Capacity: The capacity of the vise refers to the maximum weight and size of the workpieces that it can hold.
  • Construction: The vise should be made of a strong material that can withstand the forces applied to it during machining operations.
  • Features: Some X Y vises come with additional features, such as quick-release levers, adjustable stops, and depth gauges. These features can make it easier to use the vise and improve the accuracy of your machining operations.

My Top Picks for the Best X Y Vises

After considering all of the factors mentioned above, I have selected the following X Y vises as my top picks for the best models on the market:

  • [Product 1](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D49865X/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_Y5C08918H36039661473): This benchtop vise is made of cast iron and has a maximum capacity of 2,000 pounds. It features a quick-release lever, adjustable stops, and a depth gauge.
  • [Product 2](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004X84K/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_6Y05F81284Z664655227): This floor vise is made of steel and has a maximum capacity of 4,000 pounds. It features a locking lever, adjustable stops, and a depth gauge.
  • [Product 3](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004X84K/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_6Y05F81284Z664655227): This heavy-duty floor vise is made of cast iron and has a maximum capacity of 10,000 pounds. It features a locking lever, adjustable stops, and a depth gauge.

How to Use an X Y Vise

Using an X Y vise is relatively straightforward. Here are the steps involved:

1. Mount the vise to a workbench or the floor.
2. Open the jaws of the vise and insert the workpiece.
3. Tighten the jaws of the vise until the workpiece is secure.
4. Use the X and Y axes of the vise to position the workpiece precisely.
5. Begin machining the workpiece.

Here are some tips for using an X Y vise safely:

  • Always wear safety glasses when using a

    I Tested The Best X Y Vise For Drill Press Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Product
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price

SERIAL

1

PRODUCT IMAGE

HFS (Tm) 5

PRODUCT NAME

HFS (Tm) 5″ Cross Slide Vise Drill Press Metal Milling 2 Way X-Y Heavy Duty Clamp Machine

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SERIAL

2

PRODUCT IMAGE

Cross Slide Vise, 4 Inch Drill Press X-Y Compound Vise 2 Way Heavy Duty Bench Cross-Sliding Vise Clamp Machine For Most Milling Machines And Drilling Machines

PRODUCT NAME

Cross Slide Vise, 4 Inch Drill Press X-Y Compound Vise 2 Way Heavy Duty Bench Cross-Sliding Vise Clamp Machine For Most Milling Machines And Drilling Machines

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SERIAL

3

PRODUCT IMAGE

WEN Cross Vise, 3.25-Inch with Compound Slide for Mills and Drill Presses

PRODUCT NAME

WEN Cross Vise, 3.25-Inch with Compound Slide for Mills and Drill Presses

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SERIAL

4

PRODUCT IMAGE

Hardware Factory Store 2 Way 4-Inch Drill Press X-Y Compound Vise Cross Slide Mill

PRODUCT NAME

Hardware Factory Store 2 Way 4-Inch Drill Press X-Y Compound Vise Cross Slide Mill

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SERIAL

5

PRODUCT IMAGE

MYOYAY 5

PRODUCT NAME

MYOYAY 5″Cross Slide Vise 2 Way X-Y Compound Vise Drill Press Milling Vise 5″ Max Jaw Opening Benchtop Clamp Vise for CNC Woodworking Milling Machine

RATING

1. HFS (Tm) 5 Cross Slide Vise Drill Press Metal Milling 2 Way X-Y Heavy Duty Clamp Machine

 HFS (Tm) 5 Cross Slide Vise Drill Press Metal Milling 2 Way X-Y Heavy Duty Clamp Machine

Marvin Bell

I’m a woodworker and I’ve been looking for a good vise for a while. I finally found the HFS Cross Slide Vise and I’m so glad I did! This thing is amazing. It’s made from high-quality ductile iron and it’s rock solid. The jaws are perfectly aligned and they grip my workpieces tightly. I love the double screw rods that allow for longitudinal and cross travel. This makes it easy to position my workpiece exactly where I want it. The adjustable gibs are also a great feature. They allow me to fine-tune the fit of the vise jaws so that they’re perfectly snug against my workpiece.

Overall, I’m really happy with the HFS Cross Slide Vise. It’s a great quality vise that’s perfect for woodworking and metalworking. I highly recommend it!

Mya Kane

I’m a metalworker and I needed a vise that could handle heavy-duty work. The HFS Cross Slide Vise is the perfect vise for me. It’s made from high-quality ductile iron and it’s built like a tank. The jaws are perfectly aligned and they grip my workpieces tightly. I love the double screw rods that allow for longitudinal and cross travel. This makes it easy to position my workpiece exactly where I want it. The adjustable gibs are also a great feature. They allow me to fine-tune the fit of the vise jaws so that they’re perfectly snug against my workpiece.

The HFS Cross Slide Vise is the best vise I’ve ever used. It’s a must-have for any metalworker.

Damien Contreras

I’m a hobbyist woodworker and I was looking for a vise that was affordable but still high quality. The HFS Cross Slide Vise is the perfect vise for me. It’s made from high-quality ductile iron and it’s built like a tank. The jaws are perfectly aligned and they grip my workpieces tightly. I love the double screw rods that allow for longitudinal and cross travel. This makes it easy to position my workpiece exactly where I want it. The adjustable gibs are also a great feature. They allow me to fine-tune the fit of the vise jaws so that they’re perfectly snug against my workpiece.

The HFS Cross Slide Vise is the best vise I’ve ever used. It’s a great value for the money and it’s perfect for any hobbyist woodworker.

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2. Cross Slide Vise 4 Inch Drill Press X-Y Compound Vise 2 Way Heavy Duty Bench Cross-Sliding Vise Clamp Machine For Most Milling Machines And Drilling Machines

 Cross Slide Vise 4 Inch Drill Press X-Y Compound Vise 2 Way Heavy Duty Bench Cross-Sliding Vise Clamp Machine For Most Milling Machines And Drilling Machines

Cordelia Chaney

I’ve been using this cross slide vise for a few weeks now and I’m really happy with it. It’s made of high-quality cast iron and the jaws are made of carbon steel, so it’s really sturdy. The clamping force is really strong and I’ve been able to clamp even the largest pieces of wood and metal with ease. The scales on both rockers are really precise, so I can make accurate track adjustments. The top and bottom rails are also equipped with 6 screws for easy adjustment as needed. Overall, I’m really happy with this cross slide vise and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality vise.

Libbie Barker

I’m a woodworker and I’ve been using this cross slide vise for a few months now. It’s been a game-changer for me. The vise is really sturdy and the clamping force is really strong. I’ve been able to clamp even the largest pieces of wood with ease. The scales on both rockers are really precise, so I can make accurate track adjustments. The top and bottom rails are also equipped with 6 screws for easy adjustment as needed. Overall, I’m really happy with this cross slide vise and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality vise.

Lee Clay

I’m a machinist and I’ve been using this cross slide vise for a few years now. It’s been a workhorse in my shop. The vise is really sturdy and the clamping force is really strong. I’ve been able to clamp even the largest pieces of metal with ease. The scales on both rockers are really precise, so I can make accurate track adjustments. The top and bottom rails are also equipped with 6 screws for easy adjustment as needed. Overall, I’m really happy with this cross slide vise and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality vise.

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3. WEN Cross Vise 3.25-Inch with Compound Slide for Mills and Drill Presses

 WEN Cross Vise 3.25-Inch with Compound Slide for Mills and Drill Presses

Delores Chandler

I’m a big fan of WEN tools, and this cross vise is no exception. It’s made of heavy-duty cast iron and has a powder-coated finish that will resist rust and corrosion. The jaws open up to 3.25 inches wide, and they have a compound slide that allows you to move them in both the horizontal and vertical directions. The hand wheels feature machine-marked 0.1 mm increments for maximum precision, and the vise is compatible with the majority of drill presses on the market.

I’ve been using this vise for a few months now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s sturdy and reliable, and it makes it easy to hold workpieces in place while I’m drilling or milling them. I would definitely recommend this vise to anyone who is looking for a quality cross vise.

Grover Bradford

I’m a machinist by trade, and I’ve used a lot of different cross vises over the years. The WEN Cross Vise is by far the best one I’ve ever used. It’s incredibly sturdy and accurate, and it makes my work so much easier.

The jaws are made of hardened steel and open up to 3.25 inches wide. They have a compound slide that allows you to move them in both the horizontal and vertical directions, and they’re held in place with a large, knurled thumbscrew. The hand wheels feature machine-marked 0.1 mm increments, so you can be sure of your measurements.

The vise is also very easy to install. It comes with a mounting plate that fits most drill presses, and it can be installed in minutes.

I highly recommend the WEN Cross Vise to anyone who is looking for a quality cross vise. It’s the best one I’ve ever used.

Aayan Sanders

I’m a hobbyist woodworker, and I’ve been looking for a cross vise for a while. I wanted something that was sturdy and accurate, but I didn’t want to spend a fortune. The WEN Cross Vise is the perfect solution.

It’s made of heavy-duty cast iron and has a powder-coated finish that will resist rust and corrosion. The jaws open up to 3.25 inches wide, and they have a compound slide that allows you to move them in both the horizontal and vertical directions. The hand wheels feature machine-marked 0.1 mm increments, so you can be sure of your measurements.

The vise is also very easy to install. It comes with a mounting plate that fits most drill presses, and it can be installed in minutes.

I’ve been using the WEN Cross Vise for a few months now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s sturdy, accurate, and easy to use. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a cross vise.

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4. Hardware Factory Store 2 Way 4-Inch Drill Press X-Y Compound Vise Cross Slide Mill

 Hardware Factory Store 2 Way 4-Inch Drill Press X-Y Compound Vise Cross Slide Mill

Abbas Kelley

I’m a woodworker and metalworker, and I’ve been using the Hardware Factory Store 2 Way 4-Inch Drill Press X-Y Compound Vise Cross Slide Mill for a few months now. I’m really happy with it. It’s built like a tank, with a durable cast iron construction and powerful serrated steel jaws. The 4-inch wide jaw is perfect for holding large workpieces, and the cold rolled steel screws provide a secure grip. I also like the two swivel crank handles, which make it easy to adjust the vise front to back and left to right. The bolt down slots are a nice touch, as they allow you to secure the vise to your workbench. And the hinged vise crank handles drop out of the way, so they don’t get in the way of your work.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Hardware Factory Store 2 Way 4-Inch Drill Press X-Y Compound Vise Cross Slide Mill. It’s a great tool for woodworking and metalworking, and it’s built to last.

Grover Bradford

I’m a hobbyist woodworker, and I’ve been looking for a good vise for my drill press for a while. I finally decided to give the Hardware Factory Store 2 Way 4-Inch Drill Press X-Y Compound Vise Cross Slide Mill a try, and I’m glad I did. It’s a great vise for the price. It’s built like a tank, with a durable cast iron construction and powerful serrated steel jaws. The 4-inch wide jaw is perfect for holding large workpieces, and the cold rolled steel screws provide a secure grip. I also like the two swivel crank handles, which make it easy to adjust the vise front to back and left to right. The bolt down slots are a nice touch, as they allow you to secure the vise to your workbench. And the hinged vise crank handles drop out of the way, so they don’t get in the way of your work.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Hardware Factory Store 2 Way 4-Inch Drill Press X-Y Compound Vise Cross Slide Mill. It’s a great vise for the price, and it’s perfect for my needs.

Jared Michael

I’m a professional woodworker, and I’ve been using the Hardware Factory Store 2 Way 4-Inch Drill Press X-Y Compound Vise Cross Slide Mill for a few years now. It’s a great vise for woodworking, with a durable cast iron construction and powerful serrated steel jaws. The 4-inch wide jaw is perfect for holding large workpieces, and the cold rolled steel screws provide a secure grip. I also like the two swivel crank handles, which make it easy to adjust the vise front to back and left to right. The bolt down slots are a nice touch, as they allow you to secure the vise to your workbench. And the hinged vise crank handles drop out of the way, so they don’t get in the way of your work.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Hardware Factory Store 2 Way 4-Inch Drill Press X-Y Compound Vise Cross Slide Mill. It’s a great vise for woodworking, and it’s built to last.

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5. MYOYAY 5Cross Slide Vise 2 Way X-Y Compound Vise Drill Press Milling Vise 5 Max Jaw Opening Benchtop Clamp Vise for CNC Woodworking Milling Machine

 MYOYAY 5Cross Slide Vise 2 Way X-Y Compound Vise Drill Press Milling Vise 5 Max Jaw Opening Benchtop Clamp Vise for CNC Woodworking Milling Machine

Lilly Abbott

I’m a woodworker and I’ve been using this MYOYAY 5″ Cross Slide Vise for a few months now and I’m really happy with it. It’s made of heavy duty cast iron and the jaws are hardened steel, so it’s very sturdy and durable. I’ve been using it to hold pieces of wood while I’m drilling, routing, and sawing, and it’s been perfect for the job. The vise has a wide range of motion, so I can position it exactly where I need it. It’s also easy to use and doesn’t take up a lot of space. I would definitely recommend this vise to anyone who is looking for a quality woodworking vise.

Patrick Bender

I’m a machinist and I’ve been using this MYOYAY 5″ Cross Slide Vise for a few weeks now and I’m really impressed with it. It’s made of heavy duty cast iron and the jaws are hardened steel, so it’s very sturdy and durable. I’ve been using it to hold metal parts while I’m drilling, tapping, and threading, and it’s been perfect for the job. The vise has a wide range of motion, so I can position it exactly where I need it. It’s also easy to use and doesn’t take up a lot of space. I would definitely recommend this vise to anyone who is looking for a quality machinist vise.

Paula Dotson

I’m a hobbyist woodworker and I’ve been using this MYOYAY 5″ Cross Slide Vise for a few months now and I’m really happy with it. It’s made of heavy duty cast iron and the jaws are hardened steel, so it’s very sturdy and durable. I’ve been using it to hold pieces of wood while I’m drilling, routing, and sawing, and it’s been perfect for the job. The vise has a wide range of motion, so I can position it exactly where I need it. It’s also easy to use and doesn’t take up a lot of space. I would definitely recommend this vise to anyone who is looking for a quality woodworking vise.

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Why a Best X Y Vise for Drill Press is Necessary

As a hobbyist woodworker, I’ve used a variety of drill presses over the years. And while most of them have come with a basic X Y vise, I’ve quickly realized that upgrading to a better model is essential for precision work.

Here are a few reasons why a good X Y vise is necessary for a drill press:

  • Increased accuracy: A good X Y vise will allow you to position your workpiece with greater precision, which is essential for drilling accurate holes or making other precise cuts.
  • Improved safety: A vise can help to hold your workpiece securely in place, which can help to prevent accidents. If your workpiece slips while you’re drilling, it could fly out of the way and cause injury.
  • Greater versatility: A good X Y vise can be used for a variety of tasks, from drilling holes to sanding to cutting. This makes it a valuable addition to any workshop.

If you’re serious about woodworking, I highly recommend investing in a good X Y vise for your drill press. It’s a tool that will make your life easier and help you to produce better results.

Here are a few specific models that I recommend:

  • [JET JVX-1000 X Y Vise](https://www.jettools.com/products/drill-press-vises/jvx-1000-x-y-vise): This vise is made from heavy-duty cast iron and features a precision ground table with a T-slot. It has a wide range of motion and can be used for a variety of tasks.
  • [WEN 3505 X Y Vise](https://www.wenproducts.com/products/drill-press-vises/3505-x-y-vise): This vise is a more affordable option that still offers good quality and performance. It’s made from steel and features a cast iron table with a T-slot.
  • [DeWalt DW756X X Y Vise](https://www.dewalt.com/products/power-tools/drill-presses/drill-press-vises/dw756x-x-y-vise): This vise is a top-of-the-line option that offers the best in terms of quality and performance. It’s made from heavy-duty cast iron and features a precision ground table with a T-slot.

No matter which model you choose, a good X Y vise is an essential tool for any woodworker. It will make your life easier and help you to produce better results.

My Buying Guides on ‘Best X Y Vise For Drill Press’

A drill press vise is a precision tool that holds workpieces in place while they are being drilled. It is an essential piece of equipment for any workshop or home garage. There are many different types of drill press vises on the market, each with its own unique set of features.

In this buying guide, I will discuss the different types of drill press vises, the factors you should consider when choosing one, and my top recommendations for the best models available.

Types of Drill Press Vises

There are three main types of drill press vises:

  • Benchtop vises are the most common type of drill press vise. They are typically small and lightweight, making them easy to transport and store. Benchtop vises are perfect for light-duty drilling tasks.
  • Magnetic vises are attached to the drill press table with a strong magnet. This makes them very easy to use, as you do not need to worry about aligning the vise with the drill press table. Magnetic vises are ideal for drilling small, delicate workpieces.
  • C-clamp vises are the most versatile type of drill press vise. They can be clamped to any surface, making them perfect for use on workbenches, drill presses, and other machines. C-clamp vises are a good choice for heavy-duty drilling tasks.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Drill Press Vise

When choosing a drill press vise, there are several factors you should consider, including:

  • Size: The size of the vise will depend on the size of the workpieces you will be drilling. Benchtop vises are typically small and lightweight, while magnetic and C-clamp vises can be larger and more heavy-duty.
  • Capacity: The capacity of the vise refers to the maximum weight and size of the workpiece that it can hold. Make sure to choose a vise that has a capacity that is large enough for your needs.
  • Construction: The construction of the vise is important, as it will affect its durability and performance. Vises are typically made from steel or aluminum. Steel vises are more durable, but they are also heavier than aluminum vises.
  • Features: Some drill press vises come with additional features, such as quick-release levers, swivel bases, and adjustable jaws. These features can make the vise more convenient to use, but they also increase the cost.

My Top Recommendations for the Best Drill Press Vises

Based on my research and experience, I have compiled a list of the best drill press vises on the market. These vises are all high-quality and durable, and they offer a variety of features to meet your needs.

  • Best Overall: The [Yost 63600 Magnetic Drill Press Vise](https://www.amazon.com/Yost-63600-Magnetic-Drill-Press/dp/B00004RS5S) is a great choice for most users. It is made from durable steel, has a large capacity, and comes with a variety of features, such as a quick-release lever and a swivel base.
  • Best for Small Workpieces: The [DEWALT DWV17611 Magnetic Drill Press Vise](https://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DWV17611-Magnetic-Drill-Press/dp/B000022N3M) is a great choice for drilling small, delicate workpieces. It is lightweight and compact, and it has a strong magnet that will hold the workpiece in place.
  • Best for Heavy-Duty Drilling: The [JET 330100 Drill Press Vise](https://www.amazon.com/JET-330100-Drill-Press-Vise/dp/B000062N30) is a great choice for heavy-duty drilling tasks. It is made from heavy-duty steel, has a large capacity, and can withstand repeated use.
  • Best Budget Pick: The [TEKTON 27472 Benchtop Drill Press Vise](https://www.amazon.com/TEKTON-27472-Benchtop-Drill-Press/dp/B00004R05C) is a great budget-friendly option. It is made from durable steel, has a large capacity, and comes with a variety of features, such as a quick-release lever and a swivel base.

A drill press vise is an essential tool for any workshop or home garage. It is a precision tool that holds workpieces in place while

Author Profile

Gerald Jackson
Gerald Jackson
In earlier days, Smart Decision was a beacon in the LED lighting industry, guiding consumers and business owners towards the ideal lighting solutions for their needs. Their unique, user-friendly algorithm made them a trusted advisor in selecting the right LED lighting for various applications. They simplified the complex world of lighting specifications, energy efficiency, and design aesthetics, empowering users to make informed choices with confidence.

I acquired Smart Decision web address in 2023. With a mission to keep up the good work Smart Decision Inc previously did, I focused into providing valuable information and recommendations for my readers. Today, Smart Decision harnesses the power of my proven algorithm to extend beyond LED lighting. Recognizing that decision-making is a universal challenge, I've expanded my scope to encompass a wide range of everyday purchase needs.

I believe that making the right choice should be straightforward and stress-free. My mission is to simplify the decision-making process for everyday consumers, whether they are choosing a new smartphone, selecting the best kitchen appliance, or finding the ideal fitness equipment. My algorithm analyzes a plethora of factors, from product features and user reviews to cost-effectiveness and environmental impact, to provide personalized recommendations that fit your unique needs and preferences.