Copper

B

BobinWa

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Ok I have a basic question. Of the different copper alloys which is the best to use for vise jaws?

Bob
 
Why would you use copper for vise jaws. I use aluminum or delrin for soft jaws.
 
I wouldnt have thought the alloy composition would really matter for soft jaws. I just use any old copper sheet.

Cheers Phil
 
vise5.JPGFor my 6” Wilton bench vise I use aluminum angle stock 1 1/2” X 1 1/2” X 1/8”. You can get it at the big box stores. It’s probably 6061, works for me…Good Luck.

vise5.JPG
 
Last edited:
wayne w said:
I don't know the alloy, but I use buss bar.



wayne
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Great idea, and I just happen to have some sitting on the shelf. Never thought about using them for soft jaws.

Buss bars are almost pure copper.
 
Ok I can understand Aluminum for the Kurt vise though I am working with rifle barrels etc. on standard vises. I have read that copper is best to clamp down actions, barrels etc. I am inquiring the best/near best copper for the standard vise
 
BobinWa said:
Ok I can understand Aluminum for the Kurt vise though I am working with rifle barrels etc. on standard vises. I have read that copper is best to clamp down actions, barrels etc. I am inquiring the best/near best copper for the standard vise
Click to expand...

I would try to find some dead soft copper, should be pretty common. I know Wilton sells copper soft jaws, and I am guessing Enco and McMaster will have them.
 
BobinWa said:
Ok I can understand Aluminum for the Kurt vise though I am working with rifle barrels etc. on standard vises. I have read that copper is best to clamp down actions, barrels etc. I am inquiring the best/near best copper for the standard vise
Click to expand...

For rifle barrels, it's perfect. Copper is softer than brass, conforming to the work and clamping better than aluminum soft jaws.
 
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