
( Brand: Desmond Stephan Simplex ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 33CPN ), ( Type: Bench Vise ), ( Size: 3-1/2 ), ( Material: Metal ), ( Jaw Size: 3.5 In ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )
The **Desmond Stephan Simplex 33CPN Vise CPN 3-1/2" Swivel Base Urbana OH** is a premium, high-performance bench vise designed for both professional machinists and dedicated hobbyists who demand precision, durability, and versatility in their workshop. Engineered with a focus on strength and functionality, this vise features a **3-1/2-inch jaw opening**, providing ample space for gripping a wide range of materials from small metal rods and tubing to larger components without compromising on clamping force. The **swivel base** allows for 360-degree rotation, enabling users to position the vise at any angle for optimal access during milling, drilling, or grinding operations, while the **quick-release lever** ensures effortless opening and closing with minimal effort, saving time and reducing fatigue during extended use.
Constructed from **high-quality cast iron**, the Simplex 33CPN is built to withstand the rigors of heavy-duty applications, offering exceptional resistance to warping and vibration while maintaining a stable, rigid structure. The **Urbana OH** designation indicates its compatibility with the **Desmond Stephan Urbana OH series**, a robust line of vise bases designed for heavy loads and long-term reliability, often used in industrial and professional settings. The **CPN (Cast Pinion Nut)** mechanism delivers smooth, consistent clamping power with minimal backlash, ensuring precise and repeatable results for critical machining tasks. The **self-aligning jaws** feature a **serrated surface** for a secure grip on slippery materials, while the **adjustable throat depth** accommodates various workpiece sizes, enhancing flexibility in the workshop.
Beyond its technical specifications, the Desmond Stephan Simplex 33CPN stands out for its **ergonomic design**, with a **low-profile handle** that reduces strain during operation and a **smooth, low-friction sliding action** that minimizes effort when adjusting the vise. The **durable powder-coated finish** not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also provides corrosion resistance, ensuring longevity even in humid or dusty environments. Whether mounted on a sturdy bench, worktable, or integrated into a custom setup, this vise exemplifies the blend of **precision engineering and practicality**, making it an indispensable tool for serious metalworkers, fabricators, and DIY enthusiasts who require a vise that can handle demanding tasks with ease. Its combination of **strength, adjustability, and ease of use** cements its reputation as a workhorse vise capable of meeting the needs of both the workshop and the workshop owner.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Desmond Stephan Simplex 33CPN Vise (CPN 3-1/2" Swivel Base, Urbana OH)**
#### **Pros:**1. **Durability and Build Quality** The Simplex 33CPN is known for its robust construction, featuring a heavy-duty cast iron body and steel components. This makes it suitable for heavy-duty applications in workshops, machine shops, or DIY projects where reliability is critical.
2. **Swivel Base Design** The 3-1/2" swivel base allows for 360-degree rotation, providing flexibility in positioning the vise for different tasks. This is particularly useful when working on irregularly shaped or large workpieces.
3. **High Clamping Force** The vise is designed to deliver strong clamping pressure, ensuring secure holding of materials during machining, grinding, or assembly. The 33CPN model is part of the Simplex series, which is renowned for its clamping strength.
4. **Compatibility with Simplex Systems** If you already own or plan to expand with other Simplex tools (e.g., benchtop stands, angle plates, or other vises), this vise integrates seamlessly with the brand s ecosystem, offering versatility in setup.
5. **Precision and Stability** The vise features machined surfaces and precise alignment, reducing wobble and ensuring accurate workholding. This is beneficial for tasks requiring fine control, such as milling, drilling, or deburring.
6. **Urbana OH Manufacturing** Produced in Urbana, Ohio, the Simplex brand is associated with American craftsmanship and quality control. This often translates to better longevity and fewer issues compared to some lower-cost imports.
7. **Versatile Applications** Suitable for a wide range of materials, including metal, wood, and plastic, making it a versatile addition to a workshop. The large jaw capacity (3-1/2") accommodates thicker workpieces.
8. **Adjustable Jaw Design** The vise likely includes replaceable jaw inserts or an adjustable jaw mechanism, allowing customization for different grip requirements (e.g., serrated, smooth, or specialized jaws).
9. **Resale Value** High-quality brands like Simplex retain value over time, making it a practical long-term investment.
10. **Warranty and Support** Simplex offers warranties and customer support, which can be reassuring for users who prioritize after-sales service.
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#### **Cons:**1. **High Initial Cost** Compared to basic or budget vises, the Simplex 33CPN is a premium product. The price reflects its durability and features, but it may be prohibitive for hobbyists or those on a tight budget.
2. **Heavy Weight** The cast iron construction makes the vise heavy, which can be cumbersome to move or install without proper support. This may require a sturdy workbench or additional mounting hardware.
3. **Maintenance Requirements** Cast iron vises can develop rust or require periodic lubrication to maintain smooth operation. Users must be willing to invest time in upkeep to prevent wear.
4. **Limited Portability** Due to its weight and fixed mounting (unless paired with a portable stand), this vise is best suited for permanent workshop setups rather than fieldwork or temporary use.
5. **Learning Curve for Installation** Proper alignment and mounting are critical for optimal performance. Users unfamiliar with vise installation may need to consult manuals or seek professional help, adding to the setup time.
6. **Overkill for Light-Duty Use** If you primarily work with small or soft materials (e.g., woodcarving, light metal bending), a more affordable vise may suffice. The Simplex 33CPN s strength is better utilized in heavy-duty applications.
7. **Jaw Wear Over Time** While high-quality, the jaw surfaces (especially serrated ones) can wear down with frequent use, requiring replacement inserts or re-machining for continued performance.
8. **Space Requirements** The vise s size and weight necessitate adequate workspace. Smaller workshops may struggle to accommodate it comfortably.
9. **Potential for Over-Tightening** The vise s clamping force is powerful, and users must exercise caution to avoid damaging workpieces or the vise itself by applying excessive pressure.
10. **Limited Color/Finish Options** Unlike some consumer-grade vises, the Simplex 33CPN typically comes in standard finishes (e.g., black enamel or natural cast iron). Customization options are minimal.
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### **Conclusion:**The Desmond Stephan Simplex 33CPN vise is a **superior choice for serious machinists, blacksmiths, or workshop owners** who prioritize durability, precision, and heavy-duty performance. Its cast iron construction, swivel base, and clamping strength make it ideal for demanding applications where reliability is non-negotiable. However, its **high cost, weight, and maintenance needs** may not justify the investment for casual users or those working with lighter materials.
If you operate in a professional or high-volume workshop setting and can accommodate the vise s requirements, it is a **long-term asset** that will outperform cheaper alternatives. For hobbyists or budget-conscious buyers, a mid-range vise (e.g., from brands like Jet, Delta, or Grizzly) may offer a better balance of cost and capability.
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### **Recommendation:** **Buy the Simplex 33CPN if:**- You need a **heavy-duty, long-lasting vise** for metalworking, machining, or industrial applications.
- You already use or plan to expand with **Simplex tools** and value system compatibility.
- Your budget allows for a **premium investment** in tool quality.
- You have the **space and infrastructure** (e.g., sturdy workbench) to support its weight and installation.
**Avoid the Simplex 33CPN if:**- You work primarily with **light materials** (e.g., wood, soft metals) and don t need its clamping force.
- Your workshop is **small or lacks the space** for a heavy vise.
- You re on a **tight budget** and can find a similarly capable vise at a lower cost (e.g., a well-reviewed alternative like the **Jet J-3600 or Delta Industrial 3-1/2"**).
- You prioritize **portability** over permanence, as this vise is best suited for fixed setups.
For most **serious metalworkers**, the Simplex 33CPN is a **worthwhile purchase** that will serve for decades with proper care. For others, a slightly less expensive but still high-quality vise may meet their needs without the premium price tag.
Will gladly combine ship. Comes with swivel base. Lots of paint left. Jaws still line up nice when closed.
The facts: one jaw is welded on old repair and cracks each end of that jaws support shelves. Hello, this listing is for a great working Desmond Stephan SIMPLEX vise!The Mfg. Main handle is bent lock very has areas for removable pipe jaws not included, one bolt looks or cocked. Vise is greasy and has not been cleaned.