How to secure a bench hook using a vice?

27th February 2020


	How to secure a bench hook in a vice


	Shop for Bench Hooks


			Traditionally, a bench hook has no means of support other than forward hand pressure, and the forward cutting action of saws, planes and chisels, which hold the hook against the edge of the workbench.

			However, for some jobs – particularly when chiselling or planing with both hands holding the cutting tool – additional support can be provided by a woodworking vice. A woodworking vice is a device with two parallel jaws. One jaw is fixed, while the other can be opened or closed (moved away from or towards) the other jaw by means of a handle attached to a screw.

			Woodworking vices are attached to workbenches, the non-moveable jaw often being the side of the workbench.

			Step 1 – Open vice Open the vice by turning its handle anti-clockwise, or use the vice’s quick-release lever if it has one.

			Step 2 – Insert hook Place the hook of the bench hook between the jaws of the vice.

			Step 3 – Close vice Tighten the vice by turning the handle clockwise.

			Step 4 – Check Check that the bench hook is now held securely by the vice and is flat on the top of the workbench.