How Big a Vice Can I Fit?

[Phil3]

I need to sometimes hold work pieces bigger than my little 3" vice will hold. I would like a bigger vice, but obviously, there are limits as to what will fit. I would like thoughts on an appropriate size vise for my milling machine. Dimensions to consider include:

Table - 5" x 20" w/3 T-slots.
Y Travel - 5-3/8"
X Travel - 12"
Distance - Rear of Table to Forward T-Slot: 4-1/8". If vise hangs off back of table, my "Y" travel is reduced. I think a 4" vise just might do that. ???
Spindle Centerline to Mill Column - 4 - 11/16".

The mill is an early 1950s Rotex horizontal and vertical knee mill with two motors.

Thanks,

Phil

 

[matthewsx]

Why not use hold downs?

 

[benmychree]

4" I'd say.

 

[C-Bag]

Depending on the work I've found toe clamps and backstops to be very useful for long and odd sized work. No matter how big the vise you can have overhang. You can't get better support than clamping directly to the table. I'm also keeping an eye out for a 4" two piece vise for a decent price. You can never have too many clamping options.