Best Sealey Bench Vice of 2026
Sealey is a trusted UK brand known for robust workshop tools. Whether you need a heavy-duty model for metalwork or a compact vice for hobby use, we have analysed the specs and owner reviews to find the best Sealey bench vice for 2026.
Quick answer
The Sealey AK9624 is our top pick for its excellent jaw width, cast iron construction, and integrated anvil. For best value, the Sealey AK9622 offers similar durability with a slightly smaller jaw, making it ideal for general garage tasks.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (jaw width, weight, construction)
- Owner reviews aggregated from major retailers
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability (Sealey)
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated June 2026.
Sealey AK9624
Heavy-duty cast iron vice with 150mm jaw width and anvil.
| Product | Best For | Jaw Width | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sealey AK9624 | Best Overall | 150 mm | 4.6/5 | $$$ |
| Sealey AK9622 | Best Value | 125 mm | 4.5/5 | $$ |
| Sealey AK9626 | Heavy-Duty | 175 mm | 4.4/5 | $$$$ |
| Sealey AK9620 | Compact | 100 mm | 4.3/5 | $ |
| Sealey AK9628 | Professional | 200 mm | 4.2/5 | $$$$$ |
Sealey AK9624
Best OverallPros
- Integrated anvil for light forging
- Large 150mm jaw width
- Replaceable hardened steel jaws
Cons
- Heavy at 12.5 kg
- No swivel base included
The Sealey AK9624 is a classic workshop vice built from cast iron for maximum rigidity. With a 150mm jaw width and 125mm opening, it handles most garage tasks, from holding metal stock to light bending. The integrated anvil is a useful addition for minor shaping work.
Owner reviews consistently praise its solid construction and smooth screw action. The replaceable hardened steel jaws add longevity, making this a vice that will last for years. It is best suited for a permanent bench installation due to its weight.
Sealey AK9622
Best ValuePros
- Great value for money
- Compact but sturdy
- Replaceable jaw plates
Cons
- No anvil
- Smaller opening
The Sealey AK9622 is a smaller, more affordable version of the AK9624. It retains the cast iron build and replaceable jaws but in a more compact 125mm width. This makes it a good fit for smaller workbenches or for users who do not need the largest jaw capacity.
Owner feedback highlights its excellent value and reliable performance. The 100mm opening is sufficient for most DIY tasks, though it lacks the anvil found on the larger model. It is a solid choice for general garage and home workshop use.
Sealey AK9626
Heavy-DutyPros
- Very large jaw capacity
- Extremely sturdy build
- Integrated anvil
Cons
- Very heavy
- Requires a strong bench
The Sealey AK9626 is designed for serious workshop use. With a 175mm jaw width and 150mm opening, it can handle large workpieces that smaller vices cannot. The cast iron construction ensures minimal flex even under heavy clamping force.
Reviews from professional users note its reliability for repetitive heavy-duty tasks. The integrated anvil is larger than on the AK9624, making it more practical for metalwork. The main drawback is its 16kg weight, which makes it difficult to move once mounted.
Sealey AK9620
CompactPros
- Lightweight and portable
- Good for small parts
- Affordable price
Cons
- Limited clamping capacity
- Not for heavy work
The Sealey AK9620 is the smallest vice in the range, designed for light-duty tasks and hobby work. Its 100mm jaw width and 5kg weight make it easy to mount on a small bench or even a portable workstand. It is ideal for holding small components during assembly or model making.
User reviews appreciate its compact size and smooth operation for light tasks. However, it is not suitable for heavy clamping or metal bending. It is a good entry-level vice for those with limited space or budget.
Sealey AK9628
ProfessionalPros
- Maximum jaw width
- Highest clamping force
- Large anvil
Cons
- Extremely heavy
- Expensive
The Sealey AK9628 is the largest vice in the Sealey range, built for professional workshops and heavy industrial use. The 200mm jaw width and 175mm opening allow it to clamp the largest workpieces. The cast iron construction and large anvil make it capable of taking significant abuse.
Owner reviews from tradespeople highlight its unmatched stability and clamping power. The main trade-offs are its 20kg weight and higher price point. It requires a very sturdy workbench and is best considered a permanent fixture rather than a portable tool.
What to Check Before Buying a Sealey Bench Vice
Jaw width is the most important specification. A wider jaw provides more clamping surface and stability. Consider the largest workpiece you will regularly hold and choose a vice with a jaw width that matches or exceeds it.
Weight and construction matter. Cast iron vices are heavier but offer better rigidity and vibration dampening than steel or aluminium alternatives. Ensure your workbench can support the weight and that you have adequate mounting bolts.
Mistakes to Avoid
Do not buy a vice that is too small for your typical tasks. A vice that is too small will struggle to hold workpieces securely and may flex under load. Conversely, a vice that is too large can be cumbersome and take up valuable bench space.
Avoid mounting a vice on a flimsy workbench. The vice needs a solid, heavy base to function effectively. A lightweight bench will move or vibrate, reducing clamping efficiency and accuracy.
FAQs
What is the best Sealey bench vice for general use?
The Sealey AK9624 is the best choice for general garage use due to its 150mm jaw width, cast iron build, and integrated anvil.
Are Sealey bench vices made from cast iron?
Yes, all Sealey bench vices in the AK series are made from cast iron for strength and durability.
Do Sealey vices come with a swivel base?
No, the standard Sealey AK series vices do not include a swivel base. They are designed for direct bench mounting.
What is the difference between AK9622 and AK9624?
The AK9622 has a 125mm jaw width and no anvil, while the AK9624 has a 150mm jaw width and an integrated anvil.
Can I replace the jaws on a Sealey vice?
Yes, most Sealey vices have replaceable hardened steel jaw plates that can be swapped out when worn.
What size bench vice do I need for metalwork?
For metalwork, a vice with a jaw width of at least 125mm is recommended, such as the Sealey AK9622 or AK9624.
How heavy is the Sealey AK9628?
The Sealey AK9628 weighs 20.0 kg, making it the heaviest model in the range.
Is the Sealey AK9620 good for DIY?
Yes, the AK9620 is suitable for light DIY tasks, model making, and electronics work due to its compact size.
Do I need to bolt a Sealey vice to my bench?
Yes, for safety and stability, all bench vices should be securely bolted to a workbench.
What is the warranty on Sealey vices?
Sealey typically offers a 12-month warranty on their vices, covering manufacturing defects.
Our verdict
The Sealey AK9624 is our top pick for most users, offering the best combination of jaw size, build quality, and anvil functionality. For those on a budget, the Sealey AK9622 provides excellent value without sacrificing durability.