Hans,
I knew you would come to the rescue should vises be discussed. I have read your older reviews and just finished the updates for 2006. "Companion" is my answer.
My AK Best was sold by A.K. himself directly to Dave Lewis who sold it to me in brand new condition back in 1996. (It replaced my "Orvis Royal Coachman" [Thompson?..in a used tying kit totaling $49 including tools worth as much] which still functions well.) I like it but it lacks true rotary, bobbin cradle, has indented jaws which confound larger hook set, requires adjustment (albeit quick) to rotate or stay in place, adjustment must be made to get the jaws to grasp well, reportedly has a tendency for the jaws to chip (alas, no replacement available?) but I have been very careful with it.
As I watch others tie on various vises, I note the ease some have inserting and releasing hooks, having a cradle to place bobbins, gallows options (which I have rigged at my desk and is not travel friendly..Byard's gift of 2 rubberbands and 2 hooks), rotatation tying and having an optional C-clamp. What I consider my "Travel" vise is the Orvis so my interest is not so much replacement but an alternative with extra features. While I am not wanting for an art piece, quality is important as is durability. And, the LAW is a bit expensive for my abilities.
Thanks in advance, Hans.
From: "Hans Weilenmann" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Reply-To: <[email protected]>
To: <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: [VFB] confession, questions plenty, vises???
Date: Sat, 18 Feb 2006 23:03:41 +0100
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On 2/18/06, David Murphy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:Murf,BTW, my "Byard's Gallows Tool" has a broken tension arm. What size rubberbands should I get? ;-) Also, I have read and re-read all the reviews Hans did on vises and am curious about the Mongoose (ring issue). I almost exclusively tie trout and steelhead flys from size 6 to 24. My current vise is an AK Best (paid $200 used when it listed $300) and I considered the Renzetti Traveler at one point. Which vise would you all suggest under $300 or preferably under $200? I'd like to have such things as a bobbin cradle and be able to setup my gallows tool. Ideas???? PLEASE?
I am not clear on what you are after? A replacement for the AK Best? A companion vise to use as a travel kit? What?
Depending on your goal and requirements, I may be able to suggest a vise or two.
Hans
--
==================== You have a Friend in Low Places ====================
Hans Weilenmann, The Netherlands
http://www.danica.com/flytier
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