Originally Posted by
prairiepedaler
Thanks for the replies fellas. Most feedback was useful input. The vise now dwelling under the bench in shame is a Canadian Tire product, Mastercraft brand (i.e. Chinese POS). It was chosen and installed by the Coop not me. However, being involved in it's demise I think it prudent I help resolve the problem because the shop needs a vise. Therefore, I am providing a donor vise obtained specifically as replacement: a Charles Parker 3-1/2" swivel variety, model 973. It'll have to be adapted to the bench but should be doable. I hope it lasts longer than the crumbly one.
The good vises in the ad above are the ones with the lead screw inside the movable jaw's guide bar which are 5 of the 7 shown. An exposed lead screw is vulnerable to damage from chips, filings and general crud and are indications the vise is not a good one.