Forward CR80A 8 in Bench Vise Heavy Duty with 190 Degree Swivel

In this review of the Forward CR80A 8 in bench vise the bottom line is simple: this is a heavy-duty workholding tool built for craftspeople who need a durable, reliable vise for metalwork and garage projects. The reviewer found the build quality and clamping force immediately noticeable, making it suited for cutting, tapping and demanding clamps where a solid grip and stable platform matter. Its weight and ductile iron construction make it feel like a workshop staple rather than a light duty add-on.

Key Features

• Jaw Width: A 200mm (8 in) jaw width provides a broad contact area that stabilizes large workpieces for safer cutting and drilling.
• Jaw Opening: With a 229mm (9 in) jaw opening, the vise can accept thicker stock and assemblies without forcing improvised supports.
• Clamping Force: Rated at 12,000 lbs (55 kN), the vise delivers the holding power needed for heavy tapping and shaping tasks without slipping.
• Construction: Made from PSI 60,000 ductile iron, the body resists deformation under sustained loads and stands up to frequent workshop use.
• Versatility: The 190 degree swivel base and large reinforced anvil let the user index the work and use the vise as a small anvil for light hammering and shaping.
• Multi-jaw Options: Replaceable serrated top jaws, slot jaws and built-in pipe jaws (1/2 in to 3 1/2 in) give secure grips on flat, slotted and round stock.

Who It's For

The Forward CR80A is aimed at home shop owners, metalworkers and professional tradespeople who need a tough benchtop vise for routine heavy-duty tasks. Its robust ductile iron body and high clamping force make it a sensible choice for anyone doing cutting, tapping, bending or pipe work where slippage is not acceptable.

It is less appropriate for users who need a lightweight, portable clamp for occasional hobby tasks or for those who require specialized soft-jaw systems out of the box. If mobility and minimal weight are priorities, a smaller, lighter vise would be a better option.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Solid, heavy construction gives a confidence-inspiring feel and long service life.
• High clamping force and wide jaw opening handle large and tough workpieces without slipping.
• Multiple jaw types and pipe jaws increase versatility for different materials and shapes.
• The 190 degree swivel base and reinforced anvil expand functionality for multi-angle work.

Cons

• Weight and bulk make repositioning or frequent transport less convenient than lighter models.

Specifications

Jaw Width	200mm (8 in)
Jaw Opening	229mm (9 in)
Throat Depth	104mm (4.1 in)
Clamping Force	12,000 lbs (55 kN)
Construction	PSI 60,000 ductile iron
Swivel Base	190 degrees
Pipe Jaws	Built-in 1/2 in to 3 1/2 in

Our Verdict

The Forward CR80A 8 in bench vise is a durable, no-nonsense workholding tool that delivers strong clamping, versatile jaw options and a useful swivel base, making it good value for serious hobbyists and professionals. Buy it if you need a long-lasting vise for heavy metalwork and garage projects; skip it only if you need extreme portability or a lightweight bench clamp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this vise hold round stock and pipe?
Yes. It includes built-in pipe jaws that grip pipe from 1/2 in up to 3 1/2 in for secure holding.

Is the vise suitable for heavy tapping and cutting?
Yes. The 12,000 lb (55 kN) clamping force and reinforced anvil make it suitable for cutting, tapping and most metalworking tasks.

Can it be mounted on any workbench?
Yes. The design allows for solid mounting to a bench and the base can be locked after adjusting the 190 degree swivel.