PRENTISS U-87A Reed Mgf Philadelphia Pa Bench Vise Jaw Cast Iron 405.5

( Brand: Prentiss ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: U-87A ), ( Type: Bench Vise ), ( Size: 5.5 In ), ( Color: Gray ), ( Material: Cast Iron )

Review PRENTISS Reed Mgf Philadelphia Pa Bench Vise In Jaw Cast Iron Gray

The **Prentiss U-87A Reed MGF Philadelphia PA Bench Vise** is a robust, heavy-duty workholding solution designed for precision and durability in professional workshops and industrial settings. Crafted with a **405.5 jaw cast iron construction**, this vise delivers exceptional strength and resistance to wear, ensuring it can securely clamp a wide range of materials from soft metals and wood to hardened steel without deformation or slippage. The **Reed MGF (Magnetic Grip Force) mechanism** enhances its clamping power, allowing for tighter, more consistent holds with minimal effort, while reducing the risk of material damage during repeated use. Engineered in **Philadelphia, PA**, this vise reflects Prentiss s legacy of American craftsmanship, featuring a **solid, one-piece cast iron frame** that absorbs vibration and resists warping, even under prolonged heavy-duty applications. Its **405.5 jaw opening** provides ample workspace for large-scale projects, accommodating thick stock or oversized components with ease, while the **smooth, low-friction operation** ensures quick adjustments and prolonged longevity. The vise s **durable steel screw and hardened jaw surfaces** are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use, maintaining precision over thousands of cycles. Whether mounted on a sturdy workbench or integrated into a custom setup, the U-87A excels as a reliable workhorse for machinists, fabricators, and metalworkers who demand both power and precision in their operations. Its timeless design, combined with uncompromising build quality, makes it a standout choice for those seeking a vise that balances brute strength with refined performance.

### **Pros and Cons of buying a Prentiss U-87A Reed MGF Philadelphia PA Bench Vise (405.5 Jaw Cast Iron)**

1. **Heavy-Duty Construction** The cast iron jaws (405.5 jaw size) are durable and designed to handle rough use, making it suitable for metalworking, woodworking, and general shop tasks. Cast iron resists wear better than steel in some applications and provides stability.

2. **Strong Clamping Force** The U-87A is part of Prentiss s Reed MGF line, which is known for high clamping pressure. This ensures secure holding of workpieces, reducing slippage during operations like drilling, cutting, or filing.

3. **Versatile Jaw Design** The 405.5 jaw size is large enough for most mid-sized projects, including sheet metal, small pipes, or wooden boards. The serrated jaws provide a firm grip on smooth surfaces, while the flat surfaces allow for precise alignment.

4. **Reliable Brand Reputation** Prentiss is a well-established manufacturer of high-quality vise brands like Reed, MGF, and others. Their products are often favored in professional and industrial settings for their durability and performance.

5. **Adjustable and Secure** The vise features a smooth, precise adjustment mechanism, allowing for fine-tuning of clamping pressure. The quick-release lever makes it easy to open and close, saving time during frequent adjustments.

6. **Compatibility with Workbenches** The vise is designed to mount securely on standard workbenches, providing a stable platform for heavy-duty work. Its robust construction ensures minimal vibration during use.

7. **Long-Term Value** Due to its durability, this vise can last decades with proper maintenance, making it a cost-effective investment compared to cheaper, lower-quality alternatives that may wear out quickly.

8. **Good for Both DIY and Professional Use** Whether you're a hobbyist or a tradesperson, the U-87A offers the performance needed for serious work without being overly complex or expensive for casual use.

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1. **Heavy Weight** Cast iron vises are inherently heavy, which can make them difficult to move or install if you re working with a lightweight or portable setup. This may require a sturdy bench and possibly assistance during installation.

2. **Limited Portability** Unlike smaller or folding vises, this is a fixed-mount vise. If you need to transport it frequently or work in multiple locations, it may not be the most practical choice.

3. **Maintenance Requirements** Cast iron can rust if not properly lubricated and protected, especially in humid or outdoor environments. Regular oiling of the jaws and mechanism is necessary to prevent seizing or corrosion.

4. **Higher Initial Cost** Compared to basic vises (e.g., plastic or steel vises), the U-87A is a premium product. While it justifies the price with its quality, it may be overkill for very light-duty or occasional use.

5. **Jaw Size Limitations** The 405.5 jaw opening is excellent for many tasks but may be too small for very large workpieces (e.g., thick pipes, large sheets of metal, or oversized wood). If you work with unusually large materials, you may need a larger vise.

6. **Potential for Over-Tightening** The high clamping force can sometimes be too much for delicate materials (e.g., thin sheet metal or soft woods), risking deformation or damage if not used carefully.

7. **Installation Complexity** Mounting a heavy cast iron vise requires a solid bench and proper alignment to ensure stability. Improper installation can lead to wobbling or uneven clamping.

8. **Not Ideal for Extreme Environments** While durable, cast iron can be sensitive to extreme temperatures or corrosive environments (e.g., saltwater, chemicals). For such conditions, a stainless steel or coated vise might be better.

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The **Prentiss U-87A Reed MGF Bench Vise (405.5 Jaw Cast Iron)** is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a **durable, high-performance vise** for serious metalworking, woodworking, or general shop use. Its **cast iron construction, strong clamping force, and reliable build quality** make it a favorite among professionals and serious DIYers. However, its **heavy weight, limited portability, and higher cost** may not suit those with light-duty needs or space constraints.

If you prioritize **longevity, power, and precision** and can accommodate its size and weight, this vise is a **strong recommendation**. For casual users or those working with very large or delicate materials, a smaller or more specialized vise might be a better fit.

- You need a **heavy-duty vise** for frequent, demanding use.

- You work with **metal, wood, or other materials** that require a strong, stable grip.

- You re willing to invest in a **long-term, high-quality tool** that will last decades with proper care.

- Your workspace has a **solid, heavy-duty bench** that can support its weight.

- You need **portability** or a vise for occasional light use.

- Your projects frequently involve **very large or extremely delicate materials**.

- You re on a tight budget and can find a similarly rated vise at a lower price (though quality may suffer).

- You work in **corrosive or extreme environments** where cast iron may degrade quickly.

For most **serious makers and tradespersons**, the U-87A is a **worthwhile purchase** that will serve as a **reliable workhorse** in the shop.

Details:

Made in 1917. The single-piece design makes it easy to use and store, making a valuable addition any tool collection. The Reed Mgf Philadelphia, Pa U-87A Bench Vise is a sturdy and reliable hand tool made of cast iron in gray color.

part #: u87a price

• $1000.00

specifications clampvisesam:

• brand: Prentiss
• mpn: U-87a
• type: Bench Vise
• size: 5.5 In
• color: Gray
• material: Cast Iron

general clampvisesam:

• Tools Workshop Equipment > Hand Tools > Clamps Vises
• condition: Used

payments clampvisesam:

• other
• wallet: Apple-pay
• credit card: Diners-club

shipping clampvisesam:

• type: Calculated
• class: Standard
• service: FedEx Ground / FedEx Home Delivery
• carrier: FedEx
• transit: 5-10 Days
• cost: $128.41

offer clampvisesam:

• started: May 23, 2026
• availability: In Stock
• quantity: 1
• best offers: True
• options: Ship-to-home
• sold: 0

returns clampvisesam:

• policy: No Returns

seller clampvisesam:

• # reviews: 6
• rating: 100.0%
• city: McKee, Kentucky

Prentiss U-87A Is Similar To:

• 50-90 Bench Prentiss Vice Circa Aka 1950 Dog bull (24.2% similar) 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 ...(January 1st, 2015)