The 6 Best Pin Vises
This wiki has been updated 20 times since it was first published in May of 2020. Designed to securely hold a variety of items in their tiny chucks, handheld pin vises are especially well suited to help with intricate electronic, metal, or woodworking projects. Whether you're looking for an option that can hold earring posts for jewelry work or a small screwdriver for opening up a laptop, our list includes a wide range of options to meet anyone's needs. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. QWork Micro Mini
2. iBayx Micro Mini
3. Starrett 162A
Editor's Notes
August 27, 2020:
Even though pin vices are most commonly used for jewelry, woodworking, or electronics, their usefulness is really only limited by your imagination. The ability to hold tiny objects in place can come in handy for nearly any project that involves small components.
That being said, some models are geared more toward specific applications than others. Models like the QWork Micro Mini, or the Mudder 37 DIY are better-suited for hand drill applications. Their ergonomic handles are designed for easy twisting, and also come with a collection of drill bits to get you started. How exactly you use the pin vise as a hand drill is up to you, but the most popular method is to place your palm on top of the unit, and use your fingertips to rotate the handle.
The thinner Starrett 162A is more appropriate for tasks like holding wire in place for bending or twisting, or small files for deburring jewelry. It doesn’t have a large base like other models, but its textured handle still provides a good amount of control when twisting and turning during use. If these are the kind of projects you're interested in, one of these jewelry making kits could be a useful purchase.
The extra-small tasks that are typically done with pin vises, like working with miniatures or intricate watch repair, can usually benefit from some kind of magnifying tool. Whether it's by using a head-mounted model or securing one to your desk or workbench, magnifying your work area can help prevent costly mistakes.
If you're looking to holding larger items in place, a traditional bench vise might be what you're looking for. These devices are either temporarily or permanently mounted to a workbench, and can create an impressive amount of force.
4. WindCloud Professional
5. General Tools 93
6. Mudder 37 DIY
Alex Rennie is a writer from Los Angeles, CA, and holds a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Missouri. Having been a successful residential and commercial carpenter for six years in New York City, he has a comprehensive knowledge of woodworking, power tools, and the world of home DIY. His passion for construction and carpentry keep him up to date on the latest gadgets and techniques, and he never misses an opportunity to patch up a drywall dent or sand down a rough edge. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking the Santa Monica mountains with his family and their dogs, and fostering rescue animals.