Popular Woodworking 2008-08 № 170, страница 9

Tricks op the Trade -

EDITED BY PAUL ANTHONY

THE WINNER:

A Back-saving Vise Extension

W.

v hile sawing dovetails for a jewelry box, 1 found my back was hurting from hunching over my bench vise. In order to work more comfortably, I built this vise extension that works on the same principle as a leg vise. The fixture is nothing more than a couple short sections of 2x12 lumber connected with a veneer-press screw ($15 from Woodworker's Supply; woodworker.com or800-645-9292). The longer rear board clamps into my bench vise, while the front board adjusts in and out by turning the veneer-press screw. In use, the workpiece gets clamped between the two boards, projecting from the top at a much

more comfortable working height. The topsof the jaws are chamfered for easier workpiece access and tool maneuverability.

To keep the jaws parallel under clamping pressure, simply insert a shim at the bottom that's the same thickness as your workpiece. To prevent a workpiece from slipping downward when tapping on it with a chisel or other tool, rest the lower end of the workpiece on a tall shim board. The fixture can be made in any size to suit particular types of work, and the clamp can be reused in different-sized vises if desired.

—Hunter Cox, Richmond, Virginia

Threaded collar secured I >»■— into hole with screws | / through flange

Screw's pressure plate not necessary

Cash and prizes for your tricks and tips!

Each issue we publish useful woodworking tips from our readers. Next issue's winner receives a $250 gift certificate from Lee Valley Tools, good for any item in the catalog or on the web site (leevalley.com). (The tools pictured at right are for illustration only, and are not part of the prize.)

Runners-up each receive a check for $50 to $100. When submitting a trick (either by mail or e-mail) you must include your complete mailing address and a daytime phone number. If your trick is selected for publication, an editor will need to contact you. All entries become the property of Popular Woodworking. You can send your trick by e-mail to popwoodtricks@fwpubs.com, or mail it to Tricks of the Trade, Popular Woodworking, 4700 E. Galbraith Road, Cincinnati, OH 45236.

16 ■ Popular Woodworking August 2008