Ironton vs NoCry Bench Vice
Choosing between an Ironton and a NoCry bench vice comes down to balancing raw clamping force against jaw versatility and protection. We break down their specs, build quality, and real-world owner feedback to help you pick the right vise for your workbench.
Quick answer
For heavy-duty metalwork and maximum clamping power, the Ironton bench vice wins. For general DIY, woodworking, and projects where you need interchangeable soft jaws, the NoCry bench vice is the better all-rounder.
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Research updated June 2026.
| Feature | Ironton Bench Vice | NoCry Bench Vice |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Heavy-duty metalwork, automotive | DIY, woodworking, delicate materials |
| Jaw Width | 5 inches | 4.5 inches |
| Maximum Clamping Force | High (cast iron, heavy screw) | Medium (ductile iron, smooth screw) |
| Jaw Type | Serrated steel (replaceable) | Serrated steel + 2 sets of soft jaws (plastic & rubber) |
| Swivel Base | 360-degree with dual locks | 360-degree with single lock |
| Anvil Surface | Yes, large flat rear | Yes, small flat rear |
| Weight | ~18 lbs | ~10 lbs |
| Warranty | 1 year | Lifetime |
| Owner Rating | 4.5 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 |
| Price | Check on Amazon | Check on Amazon |
Ironton Bench Vice: Raw Power for Tough Jobs
The Ironton bench vice is built for users who need maximum clamping force and durability. Its cast iron construction and 5-inch serrated jaws provide a strong grip on metal pipes, automotive parts, and heavy stock. The large anvil surface on the rear is useful for light hammering and bending work. Owners consistently praise its solid feel and lack of wobble under heavy load. The dual swivel locks keep the vise firmly in place during demanding tasks. However, the serrated jaws can mar softer materials like wood or plastic, and the vice is quite heavy to move around.
NoCry Bench Vice: Versatile and Material-Friendly
The NoCry bench vice is designed for versatility and protecting your workpieces. It comes with two sets of interchangeable soft jaws (plastic and rubber) that snap over the serrated steel jaws, allowing you to clamp wood, plastic, or finished metal without leaving marks. The 4.5-inch jaw width is adequate for most DIY projects. Owners appreciate the smooth screw action and the included jaw liners. The lifetime warranty is a strong point. The trade-off is lower maximum clamping force compared to the Ironton, and the smaller anvil surface is less useful for heavy hammering.
What to Check Before Buying a Bench Vice
Before choosing, consider these factors: Jaw width determines the maximum workpiece size you can clamp. Clamping force is critical for metalwork but less important for woodworking. Jaw material (serrated vs. smooth/soft) affects whether you will mar your work. Swivel base allows you to rotate the vise for better access. Weight affects portability and bench stability. Warranty reflects the manufacturer's confidence in the product.
Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Bench Vice
Common mistakes include buying a vise that is too small for your largest projects, ignoring the jaw type (serrated jaws will damage finished wood), and underestimating the weight needed for stability. Also, check that your workbench can support the vise's weight and that the mounting holes align with your bench. Finally, do not overlook the warranty; a longer warranty often indicates better build quality.
Which Vise Is Right for You?
Choose the Ironton bench vice if you primarily work with metal, need maximum clamping force, and have a sturdy workbench. It is the better choice for automotive repair, blacksmithing, and heavy fabrication. Choose the NoCry bench vice if you work with a variety of materials, including wood and plastic, and want to avoid marring your workpieces. It is ideal for general DIY, woodworking, and hobbyist use. The NoCry's lifetime warranty also makes it a lower-risk purchase.
Our verdict
The Ironton bench vice is the best overall for heavy-duty metalwork and maximum clamping power. The NoCry bench vice is the best budget-friendly choice for versatile DIY and woodworking, thanks to its included soft jaws and lifetime warranty.
FAQs
Can I use the Ironton bench vice for woodworking?
Yes, but the serrated jaws will leave marks on wood. You would need to add aftermarket soft jaw covers.
Does the NoCry bench vice come with mounting hardware?
Yes, it includes bolts and washers for mounting to a workbench.
Which vice has a larger anvil surface?
The Ironton bench vice has a larger, flatter anvil surface suitable for light hammering.
Is the NoCry bench vice made of cast iron?
It is made of ductile iron, which is strong but slightly less rigid than cast iron.
Can I replace the jaws on the Ironton bench vice?
Yes, the serrated steel jaws are replaceable.
Does the NoCry bench vice swivel 360 degrees?
Yes, it has a 360-degree swivel base with a single lock.
Which vice is heavier?
The Ironton bench vice weighs about 18 lbs, while the NoCry weighs about 10 lbs.
What is the warranty on the Ironton bench vice?
It comes with a 1-year warranty.
Can I clamp plastic in the NoCry bench vice?
Yes, the included rubber soft jaws are ideal for clamping plastic without damage.
Which vice is better for automotive work?
The Ironton bench vice is better for automotive work due to its higher clamping force and larger anvil.