pcb vise

[John Roman]

I've always just made do with whatever I had but my dexterity ain't what it used to be, along with several other functions. So what do you folks suggest as a good all around vise tool to hold stuff for soldering and inspection?
John

[pro_crip]

I've just used this http://www.modelexpo-online.com/product.asp?ITEMNO=MZ101. It's big enough for BH boards and it's got a magnifying glass. Thanks for listening.

Rich

[Yoder]

I bought a PanaVise with a vacuum base a couple of months ago and love it. They also make a head for PCBs, but the regular head works great for most PCBs. Best of all they are made in the USA. http://www.panavise.com/index.html?pageID=1&id1=1&startat=1&--woSECTIONSdatarq=1&--SECTIONSword=ww The base runs around $30 as do most of the heads...a very flexible tool.

I gave up on the Helping Hands with PCBs for several reason: balance, don't like the idea of the sharp alligator clips cutting into the PCB, the arms are not too stable, ad nauseum. Hell, they are cheap pieces of crap made in China...need I say more.

[John Roman]

Hey Yoder,
"Made in America" used to be ubiquitous. Now you have to really search for it, sad state of affairs we've put ourselves in. Thanks for the tip about
Panavise.
best regards, John

[Yoder]

If you go with the Panavise, then get the vacuum base. It is great in that you can use it almost anywhere. I slap it on the table next to me and braid cable while watching Star Trek re-runs--not advised when 7-of-9 is on the big screen.

[Jim R.]

Another vote for the pana-vise, though I use the heavy base with the small compartments in it -- great place to put all the little hardware and components that one typically has when building electronics.  I also have the pc card holder but can't remember the last time I used it.

-- Jim