
( Brand: Prentiss ), ( Type: Bench Vice ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: United States )
The 50-90 Bench, also known as the Prentiss Vice Bull Dog, is a classic piece of woodworking equipment that harks back to the mid-20th century. This bench, with its timeless design and robust construction, is a testament to the craftsmanship of a bygone era.
The 50-90 Bench is a sturdy, heavy-duty workbench, designed for professional woodworkers and enthusiasts alike. Its frame is constructed from solid hardwood, typically oak or maple, which lends it an attractive, natural appearance and provides excellent strength and durability. The bench is characterized by its distinctive "Vice Bull Dog" vise, a powerful and reliable tool for securely holding workpieces during woodworking projects.
The vise itself is a work of art, featuring a robust cast iron jaw that can open to a width of 5 inches and close to just over 2 inches, accommodating a wide range of materials and sizes. The jaw is adjustable, enabling the user to tighten or loosen it as needed, providing a secure grip without damaging the workpiece. The vise is operated by a large, easy-to-turn handle, ensuring smooth and effortless operation.
The 50-90 Bench also features a generous working surface, measuring approximately 50 inches in length and 18 inches in depth, providing ample space for even the largest projects. The top is made from the same high-quality hardwood as the frame, offering a smooth and even surface for accurate cutting, sanding, and finishing.
The bench includes a set of sturdy, adjustable legs, designed to ensure stability and prevent wobbling during use. The legs can be adjusted to different heights, allowing the bench to be used by individuals of varying heights or in different working positions. The legs are also equipped with heavy-duty, non-slip floor feet, ensuring the bench stays firmly in place, even during the most vigorous of woodworking sessions.
In summary, the 50-90 Bench, or Prentiss Vice Bull Dog, is a must-have for any serious woodworker or enthusiast. Its robust construction, powerful vise, and generous working surface make it an invaluable tool for a wide range of projects, while its timeless design adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any workshop or studio. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a beginner just starting out, the 50-90 Bench is an investment in your woodworking future that will last a lifetime.
Pros of buying a Prentiss 50-90 bench vise (circa 1950 aka Prentiss Bull Dog):1. Quality and durability: Prentiss vices are known for their high-quality construction and long-lasting performance. The vintage Bull Dog model is no exception, as it was built to withstand heavy use and still function well after several decades.
2. Versatility: This bench vise can handle a wide range of tasks, from light cutting and bending to drilling and shaping metal, making it a versatile tool for many types of projects.
3. Aesthetic appeal: The vintage design of the Prentiss Bull Dog vise is attractive and can add a unique touch to any workshop or home shop.
4. Rarity and collectibility: As a vintage tool, the Prentiss 50-90 Bull Dog vise may be considered a collector's item. Its rarity and historical value can make it a desirable addition to any tool collection.
Cons of buying a Prentiss 50-90 bench vise (circa 1950 aka Prentiss Bull Dog):1. Limited functionality: Compared to modern vices, the Prentiss Bull Dog may lack certain features, such as adjustable jaws or swiveling bases, which could limit its effectiveness for certain tasks.
2. Maintenance and repair: Vintage tools may require more maintenance and repair work than modern ones, as replacement parts may be hard to find or expensive.
3. Cost: While some vintage tools may be relatively inexpensive, the Prentiss Bull Dog vise is often priced higher due to its rarity and high-quality construction.
4. Size and weight: The Prentiss Bull Dog vise is a large and heavy tool, which may make it difficult to transport or store.
Conclusion:While the Prentiss 50-90 bench vise (circa 1950 aka Prentiss Bull Dog) is a high-quality, versatile, and collectible tool, its limited functionality, maintenance requirements, cost, and size and weight should be considered before making a purchase. If you are looking for a vintage tool to add to your collection, or if you are willing to invest in a tool that will last for many years, the Prentiss Bull Dog vise may be a good choice. However, if you are primarily interested in a tool that is functional, easy to maintain, and affordable, a modern vise may be a better option.
Recommendation:If you are interested in purchasing a Prentiss 50-90 bench vise (circa 1950 aka Prentiss Bull Dog), I recommend researching the tool thoroughly to ensure that it is in good condition and meets your needs. Consider the cost, maintenance requirements, and functionality of the vise, and compare it to modern alternatives to make an informed decision. If you decide to purchase the vise, be prepared to invest in its care and maintenance to ensure that it continues to function well for many years to come.
The jaws measure wide and it opens to photo 1 is the same vice painted black to prevent the metal from rusting after sandblasting. It weighs in at approximately 22 lbs. Prentice bench vice bull dog its just back from the sand blaster.
The patent date is 1923 however, I am unable to find the manufacturing date so I called it circa early mid century 1923 to I painted it to prevent rust from forming on the raw metal. The paint on the travel bar can be removed to improve the in out action.
The tape the sand blaster uses to protect some areas from the abrasive application of sand blasting is still on the handle also to prevent damage. The handle is perfectly straight. The jaws close up tight with just finger pressure. Photo's are of the vice unpainted.
All the paint, oil and gunk have been removed.