Combination Pipe and Bench Vise 5.5 in Jaw Width - Heavy Duty Utility

In this review the Yost Vises 455 combination pipe and bench vise is evaluated for workshop use where durability and a secure hold matter most. The bottom line: this vise is aimed at hobbyists, mechanics, and metalworkers who need a heavy-duty, multi-purpose workholding tool with a reliable swivel base and hardened serrated jaws. Its cast grey iron body and steel U-channel bar deliver a solid feel, while the 360-degree swivel base and replaceable jaws make it a practical, long-term addition to a busy bench.

Key Features

• Combination design: Integrates a permanent serrated pipe jaw and serrated top jaws so users can clamp both round pipe and flat stock without swapping tools.
• Durable construction: Built from 30,000 PSI cast grey iron with a steel U-channel bar to resist bending and provide long service life under shop loads.
• Replaceable jaws: Hardened steel serrated top jaws are replaceable, extending the vise lifespan and maintaining grip performance over years of use.
• Swivel base: A 360-degree rotatable swivel base with two lockdowns and a hand-tighten knob allows positioning the workpiece quickly and locking it securely.
• Anvil surface: Large integrated anvil gives a convenient surface for light hammering and shaping tasks without moving the workpiece.

Who It's For

The vise is best suited to garage mechanics, metalworkers, plumbers, and DIY enthusiasts who need a robust bench-mounted vise capable of handling both pipe and flat-stock clamping. Its combination jaws and replaceable hardened parts make it a sensible choice for users who expect frequent use and occasional maintenance.

Those who should look elsewhere include users needing extremely large pipe capacities beyond 2.5 in or a very lightweight portable vise for field work; this model is optimized for bench use and shop durability rather than maximum portability or oversized pipe clamping.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Solid cast iron and steel build provides dependable rigidity for heavy-duty bench tasks.
• Combination pipe and top jaws remove the need to swap between specialized vises for many common jobs.
• 360-degree swivel base with two lockdowns makes positioning workpieces fast and repeatable.
• Replaceable hardened jaws extend usable life and maintain grip quality.

Cons

• Max pipe capacity of 2.5 in limits use on larger diameter piping or tubing.
• At this weight and construction it is intended for bench mounting and is not ideal for highly portable applications.

Specifications

Jaw Width	5.5 in
Jaw Opening	5 in
Throat Depth	3.25 in
Min Pipe Capacity	0.125 in
Max Pipe Capacity	2.5 in
Body Material	30,000 PSI cast grey iron with steel U-channel bar
Base	360-degree swivel with 2 lockdowns

Our Verdict

The Yost Vises 455 is a practical, well-built combination vise for anyone who needs a reliable bench-mounted clamp for both pipe and flat work. It delivers good value through durable materials, replaceable jaws, and a versatile swivel base, making it a smart purchase for workshop users who want a long-lasting, multi-purpose vise without paying for industrial-scale capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this vise clamp round pipe?
Yes, it features a permanent serrated pipe jaw with a pipe capacity up to 2.5 in for common plumbing and fabrication sizes.

Does the base rotate and lock?
Yes, the base rotates 360 degrees and uses two lockdowns plus a hand-tighten knob to secure the chosen position.

Are the top jaws replaceable?
Yes, the hardened steel serrated top jaws are replaceable to extend service life and maintain gripping performance.