Self-Centering Vise (125.7mm x 254mm x 73.6mm)

5^th Axis Self Centering Vise is engineered for precision and consistency, delivering repeatability better than ±0.0005” (±0.0127mm). This level of accuracy ensures that every part is perfectly centered with no need for manual adjustments, making it ideal for high-tolerance 5-axis machining applications.  When designing the full line of self-centering vises our goals was to create a precision self-centering vise that satisfies 90% of the shops do at a cost effective price point.

Aluminum and steel soft jaws are available for all models of 5^th axis vises.  The standard serrated hard jaws are built for Op 1 roughing operations.  All clamping on finished surfaces should be done in machinable soft jaws.

Jaw lift is a reality in every vise—regardless of manufacturer claims. It occurs when clamping force causes the jaws to slightly tilt or lift, leading to part misalignment, reduced clamping force, and inconsistent machining results. At 5th Axis, we’ve engineered our vises to minimize jaw lift and provide the most secure, repeatable, and precise Workholding available.

How 5th Axis Vises Minimize Jaw Lift

Precision-Ground Dovetail & Ways

Our vises feature precision-ground contact surfaces and a robust dovetail design, ensuring that the jaws move smoothly while maintaining rigid, even contact.

A standard 45-degree dovetail is built into the back of the standard hard jaw.  This is an optional feature and will not get in the way if you choose not to utilize it.  We recommend utilizing the dovetail when machining hard materials or where the stock size is larger than the opening of the vise itself.

The hardened serrated gripper teeth are built to bite directly into raw material.  We recommend utilizing the serrated gripper teeth with for stock with a hardness under 35 HRC.  For material with hardness over 35 HRC we recommend utilizing the dovetail or custom soft jaws.

Yes, the standard hard jaw features a smooth face, serrated gripper teeth and an integrated 45-degree dovetail.  The standard hard jaws are built for Op 1 roughing and we highly recommend utilizing soft jaws for clamping on any finished surfaces.

Selecting the right self-centering vise is crucial for maximizing stability, efficiency, and machining accuracy. The right vise depends on your part size, machine type, and workholding needs.  Check out our 3D configuration tool to find the best workholding for your application.

Part Size & Clamping Range

V75100X (Compact 3” Vise) – Best for small to medium parts and tight machine envelopes.

V562X (5” Standard Vise) – Our most versatile option, ideal for a wide range of part sizes.

V510X (Large 10” Vise) – Designed for larger parts and heavier cutting forces.

Machine Size & Work Envelope

Smaller 3-, 4-, or 5-Axis Machines → Use a compact vise (V75100X, V75150X) for better tool access.

Larger Machines & Horizontal Setups → A larger vise (V510X) can handle bigger parts and aggressive cutting.

Material & Machining Forces

Light-to-Medium Machining (Aluminum, Plastics) → A smaller vise can typically handle the job.

Heavy-Duty Machining (Steel, Titanium, Inconel) → Choose a larger vise for better rigidity and holding power or utilize the 45-degree dovetail integrated into all standard vise hard jaws.

 Workholding Density & Fixturing

Single-Part Machining? → A standard vise like the V562X offers the best versatility.

Multiple-Part Setups? → Use smaller vises in a high-density setup to increase throughput.

Automation & Palletization? → Consider a vise compatible with the RockLock™ Quick-Change System for fast swaps.

All 5^th Axis self-centering vises feature industry standard 52mm or 96mm pull stud spacing.  This means they are RockLock ready.  It also means that all vises are compatible with competitive systems utilizing the 52mm and 96mm pull stud spacing.  The line of steel vises can also be directed mounted from the top down like a traditional vise using standard socket head cap screws and dowel locators.  The dowel pins are removeable so if you run into an application where you need to direct mount the vise to the t-slot table, you can simply remove the dowel pins.  We recommend using the dowel pins when mounting the vises onto a subplate or pallet.