The 9 Best Cross Slide Vises
This wiki has been updated 7 times since it was first published in January of 2019. A sturdy cross slide vise proves useful during various machining projects, since it can help you change the position of your workpiece without the hassle of reclamping. It's uniquely designed to move your material both horizontally and vertically, making it easy to cut or shape it in multiple spots with a router or drill. Here we rank them for durability, ease of use, and price. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki. If you'd like to contribute your own research to the Wiki, please get started by reviewing this introductory video.
1. Palmgren 30301
2. Wilton 11694
3. Palmgren CV80
Editor's Notes
March 08, 2021:
It was a busy round of updates that – in spite of seeing the HFS Heavy Duty, Yost HD CSV-4 and Capri Tools 10520 removed due to availability issues – saw these rankings grow from a seven- to a nine-item collection. Our list remains anchored by its big-name choices – the Palmgren 30301, Wilton 11694 and Palmgren CV80 – but we found several serviceable alternatives to join them, including many that are more affordable.
As far as placement, we gave preference to larger models that allow users the flexibility of working with bigger material – the Mophorn Heavy Duty and Wen 41-CV have eight- and 8/3/8-inch versions available, respectively – but we also included some smaller choices a little lower on our list, as we realized that, for those who know their capacities will be sufficient for their applications, the lower prices and weights associated with these small offerings are likely to be quite appealing. If you never need to deal with material larger than three-inch stock, then the Texalan TQS is an option that rates reasonably well and comes for an exceptionally low cost.
Another reason to think about smaller hardware in this context is to make sure that you select a unit that’s small enough to be compatible with whichever tool you’re pairing it with — in this case, likely a drill press.
To assist you with alternate clamping needs, we also maintain lists of bench vises and pipe vises.
April 29, 2019:
When you’re stopping frequently to move your wooden or metal workpiece as you cut it in different places, a cross slide vise can shave hours off your project. Products from two separate century-old toolmakers are featured on our list: The two reliable Palmgren models offer conveniences like dust-collecting ports and ergonomically placed handles for easier operation. The Yost HD CSV-4 is dependable, simple to use, and is thoughtfully designed with adjustability and dovetailed construction.
If you’re in the mood for a more budget-friendly choice, look to the Capri Tools and HFS selections listed here. Note that these both will likely require some prep work out of the box, including cleaning, lubing, and adjusting.
Whichever you decide is right for you, always wear safety glasses and hearing protection when operating machines such as drills and routers.
Special Honors
MSC Industrial Direct Cross slide vises are a small part of this company's business, but they still offer quite a wide selection. With some jaw openings smaller than three inches, and others as big as eight inches, there's a good chance you'll find a size suitable for your applications. mscdirect.com
4. Mophorn Heavy Duty
5. Wen 41-CV
6. Neiko 55002A
7. Shop Fox D4082
8. Myoyay Milling Machine
9. Texalan TQS
After deciding that the pen was mightier than the pliers, Canadian electrical contractor William Rhoda abandoned his career and headed back to college, where he majored in marketing and advertising and won a scholarship along the way to earning a diploma in creative communications. His past career landed him a depth of knowledge in tools and hardware, while his current career schooled him in audio, video and camera equipment. During his leisure time, he’s learned lots about outdoor gear, and years of tiresome backyard maintenance have taught him all about pools and hot tubs. His recreational pursuits include rest, relaxation and revolutionary action, and his roommate’s a hairless cat.