I modified two of the bridges I use on my CNC frame to serve as a vise to hold boards vertically for joinery cuts.

Full story now live on my Blog.

Bridges can still serve as independent supports for anything I need to cut flat on my CNC. Last thing I made was the handles

4D

Excellent idea and upgrade 4D. I couldn't live without my (3) Folding Stand Workmates, (2) Bench top models, plus my (2) knock-off versions. Without them setup, I'd have to find somewhere to stack stuff.

After using this bridge vise several times I wish I had thought of it 15 years ago. Far easier and quicker to clamp boards small or large, skinny or wide for CNC jobs.

I also checked on the latest Workmate and am impressed with the improvements they've made since I bought mine 4ish decades ago. Almost ordered one from the Jungle store. They added a flip up front you can use to clamp down a board with, and it appears they've linked the handles together to turn at the same time. Curious though if the link can be "turned off" although I'm not sure why.

17 hours ago, 4DThinker said:

They added a flip up front you can use to clamp down a board with, and it appears they've linked the handles together to turn at the same time. Curious though if the link can be "turned off" although I'm not sure why.

Yeah, think they came out with that a few years ago. I have a Model 425 I bought used a few years back which has that feature. It also has the linked handles. It's sort of a elastic belt with holes that's driven by "sprockets" on each handle. Basically allows for quick rundown of the clamp jaw but final pressure you really need to use each hand screw individually. Belt on mine finally deteriorated.

I just remembered too, I have yet another Workmate. It is the very first model B&D introduced. Don't remember the model (think it's a 79-001, type 1) but it's equal to or maybe a little larger top surface like the 425. It also has the ability to clamp vertical. All 1" ? plywood top. It's heavy. I bought it at a garage sale probably 15 or more years ago. I've basically used it as a small workbench for years.

Edited March 28Mar 28 by Grandpadave52