Reprofiling post vise jaws

A

AlaskanHunter

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Nov 23, 2013
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I have an old post vise that has a 1/2" gap in the center of the jaws when closed. I've been contemplating reprofiling (grinding flat) the jaws so that the center closes tight at the same time as the edges. So... before I start throwing sparks, is there anything I should know first? Is this a bad idea? Any one know if the jaws are hardened, and if yes, are they hardened all the way through?
 
This is a question that really needs a photo or two. Unless the jaws were modified for some blacksmith task, I can't imagine what would have make them have a center gap.
 
When I went out to snap a picture, I realized that the gap was only 1/8 - 1/4". Still a problem, but not as bad as I had thought. Guess the problem gets bigger in a guy's mind if he's been fighting it all day. The jaws do not appear to have a face welded onto them.
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I would take a file and go to it and when I got them both reasonably square, I would mount new detachable jaw faces to the jaws--that old thing looks worn and wise!!
 
The vise probably has a lot of heavy forging of hot steel done on it and has bowed the jaw. People who drift hawks and axes often bow the jaws. I would just use it as-is, as it is unlikely you will be working any steel thinner than the bow.

If you want to true it square, disassemble the vise and flatten it with an angle grinder and files. Test fit as it gets close and finish up assembled with a file.

Making or buying a set of copper jaw liners that clip on the vise is a real good addition. They will hold a blade very tight without marring it. Really useful for tang shaping and handle shaping.
This is what they look like:
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_fro...ers.TRS0&_nkw=copper+vise+jaw+liners&_sacat=0
 
If I might add a very small tip to what the master Stacy said.

Edit I just noticed that Stacy said assemble and finish with a file lol damn old man knows too much ;) I hope I know as much as he does before I die lol

When you get it close with the grinder and files reassemble
The vice then clamp down on a file "lightly" so you can still push it in and out.

Then crank the vise a little and a few more swipes then tighten and file rinse and repeat and you'll get it VERY true as long as you pull your file relatively straight :)
And it will true both sides to the file at the same time.

You can also true plate pliers in this way and tweezers
 
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