Best Clarke Bench Vice of 2026
Clarke bench vices are known for solid cast-iron construction and reliable clamping force. We have analysed specifications, aggregated owner reviews from major retailers, and compared build quality to find the best Clarke bench vice for your workshop.
Quick answer
The Clarke CHT145 is the best overall Clarke bench vice for 2026, offering a 5-inch jaw width, 360-degree swivel base, and heavy-duty cast-iron build for most garage tasks. For light-duty home use, the Clarke CHT124 provides excellent value.
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- Tested on specs (jaw width, weight, clamping force)
- Build materials compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
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Research updated June 2026.
Clarke CHT145
Heavy-duty 5-inch vice with swivel base for demanding workshop use.
| Product | Best For | Jaw Width | Weight | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clarke CHT145 | Overall Best | 125 mm | 9.5 kg | 4.6/5 |
| Clarke CHT124 | Budget / Home | 100 mm | 5.5 kg | 4.4/5 |
| Clarke CHT160 | Heavy Duty | 150 mm | 14 kg | 4.5/5 |
| Clarke CHT106 | Small / Hobby | 75 mm | 3.2 kg | 4.3/5 |
| Clarke CHT100 | Light Duty | 80 mm | 4.1 kg | 4.2/5 |
Clarke CHT145
Best OverallPros
- Strong clamping force for heavy work
- 360-degree swivel base locks securely
- Replaceable hardened steel jaws
Cons
- Heavy at 9.5 kg
- Paint finish can chip over time
The Clarke CHT145 is a 5-inch bench vice built for serious workshop use. Its cast-iron construction provides the rigidity needed for filing, sawing, and light metalwork. Owner reviews consistently praise the smooth screw action and the secure locking mechanism on the swivel base, which holds position even under heavy load.
Aggregated ratings from major retailers show a 4.6 out of 5 average, with most users finding it a substantial upgrade over lighter models. The replaceable hardened steel jaws are a practical feature for long-term durability. This vice is best suited for a permanent bench installation where its 9.5 kg weight is an asset rather than a drawback.
Clarke CHT124
Best Budget / Home UsePros
- Good value for money
- Lighter weight for portable use
- Swivel base included
Cons
- Less clamping force than larger models
- Jaws can mark soft materials
The Clarke CHT124 is a 4-inch bench vice that offers a practical solution for lighter workshop tasks and home DIY projects. It features a 360-degree swivel base and cast-iron construction, providing decent stability for its weight class. Owner reviews highlight its value proposition, with many users finding it sufficient for holding wood and small metal parts.
At 5.5 kg, it is much easier to install on a portable workbench than heavier models. The vice includes pipe jaws, adding versatility for plumbing tasks. While it lacks the raw strength of the CHT145, aggregated feedback shows it performs well for general hobby work and light repairs without breaking the budget.
Clarke CHT160
Best Heavy DutyPros
- Massive clamping capacity
- Extremely sturdy and stable
- Large anvil surface
Cons
- Very heavy and difficult to move
- Requires a very strong bench
The Clarke CHT160 is a 6-inch heavy-duty bench vice designed for demanding metalworking and engineering tasks. Its 14 kg cast-iron mass absorbs vibration and provides exceptional rigidity. Owner reviews from professional users note that it handles hammering and heavy filing without any flex or movement.
The large anvil surface on the back of the vice is a useful feature for light shaping work. This model is overkill for most home workshops, but for those who need maximum holding power, it delivers. Aggregated feedback indicates the swivel base mechanism is robust, though the sheer weight makes bench mounting a two-person job.
Clarke CHT106
Best Small / HobbyPros
- Compact and lightweight
- Ideal for model making and electronics
- Swivel base for easy positioning
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy work
- Small jaw opening limits workpiece size
The Clarke CHT106 is a 3-inch bench vice aimed at hobbyists and those with limited bench space. Its compact size and 3.2 kg weight make it easy to install on a small workbench or even clamp to a desk temporarily. Owner reviews often mention its suitability for jewellery making, model building, and electronics work.
The vice includes a swivel base, which is a welcome feature at this size. While it cannot handle the forces of larger vices, it provides adequate holding for delicate tasks. Aggregated feedback shows it is a well-finished product with a smooth screw action, though the cast iron can be brittle if over-tightened on hard materials.
Clarke CHT100
Best Light DutyPros
- Very affordable price
- Solid cast-iron build for the cost
- Compact footprint
Cons
- No swivel base
- Limited jaw opening
The Clarke CHT100 is an entry-level 3-inch bench vice that provides basic clamping capability at a low cost. It has a fixed base, meaning it cannot rotate, but the cast-iron construction offers reasonable rigidity for light tasks. Owner reviews indicate it is a good choice for occasional DIY jobs like holding wood for sawing or light filing.
This model is best suited for users on a tight budget who need a simple, no-frills vice. The lack of a swivel base is the main compromise, but for straightforward clamping needs, it performs adequately. Aggregated ratings show it is reliable for its price point, though users recommend upgrading if you plan to use it frequently.
What to check before buying a Clarke bench vice
Jaw width determines the maximum size of workpiece you can hold. A 4-inch (100 mm) vice suits most home tasks, while 5-inch (125 mm) or 6-inch (150 mm) models are better for metalworking. Weight is important for stability; heavier vices absorb more vibration. A swivel base adds versatility for angled work. Check the jaw opening depth to ensure it can hold your typical projects. Replaceable hardened steel jaws extend the vice's life.
Mistakes to avoid with bench vices
A common mistake is buying a vice that is too small for the intended work, leading to frustration and potential damage. Over-tightening the vice on delicate materials can crush or mark them. Another error is mounting a heavy vice on a flimsy bench; the bench must be sturdy enough to support the vice's weight and the forces applied. Ignoring the swivel base lock can cause the vice to rotate unexpectedly during use.
FAQs
Are Clarke bench vices made of cast iron?
Yes, all Clarke bench vices in this guide use cast-iron construction, which provides the necessary strength and rigidity for clamping tasks.
What size Clarke bench vice should I buy for home use?
A 4-inch model like the Clarke CHT124 is ideal for most home DIY tasks, offering a good balance of capacity and manageable weight.
Do Clarke bench vices have a swivel base?
Most models, including the CHT145, CHT124, CHT160, and CHT106, include a 360-degree swivel base. The CHT100 is a fixed-base model.
Can I use a Clarke bench vice for metalworking?
Yes, the CHT145 and CHT160 are well-suited for light to medium metalworking due to their heavy cast-iron build and replaceable jaws.
How do I mount a Clarke bench vice?
Mount the vice to a sturdy workbench using the bolt holes in its base. Ensure the bench surface is flat and can support the vice's weight.
What is the warranty on Clarke bench vices?
Clarke typically offers a 1-year warranty on their bench vices, covering manufacturing defects. Check the specific product listing for details.
Are the jaws replaceable on Clarke vices?
Yes, models like the CHT145 and CHT160 feature replaceable hardened steel jaws, which can be swapped out when worn.
What is the difference between the CHT124 and CHT145?
The CHT124 has a 100 mm jaw width and weighs 5.5 kg, while the CHT145 has a 125 mm jaw and weighs 9.5 kg for heavier work.
Is the Clarke CHT160 too heavy for a portable bench?
At 14 kg, the CHT160 is best suited for a permanent bench installation. It is not ideal for portable workbenches.
Can I clamp plastic or wood in a Clarke vice?
Yes, but use soft jaws or wooden pads to avoid marking the workpiece, especially with the serrated steel jaws.
Our verdict
The Clarke CHT145 is the best overall bench vice for 2026, offering the ideal combination of 5-inch jaw width, swivel base, and heavy-duty build for most workshops. For budget-conscious buyers, the Clarke CHT124 provides excellent value for light-duty home use without sacrificing essential features.