Yost Vises M9WW Rapid Action Woodworking Vise: A Comprehensive Review

For woodworkers, both hobbyists and professionals, a reliable vise is indispensable. The Yost Vises M9WW Rapid Action Woodworking Vise, available on Amazon here, is one of the top choices in the market. This review explores its features, installation, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right addition to your workshop.



The Yost M9WW is a robust and versatile woodworking vise designed to offer both durability and ease of use. Constructed from rugged cast iron with a tensile strength of 30,000 PSI, this vise is built to last. Its rapid action lever and chrome-plated steel components enhance its functionality and longevity.

Key Features of the Yost M9WW


  1. Construction and Build Quality
    • Material: Made from heavy-duty cast iron, the Yost M9WW ensures durability and stability. The 30,000 PSI tensile strength provides a solid grip on workpieces.
    • Jaw Specifications: The vise features a 9-inch jaw width, a 10-1/4 inch jaw opening, and a 4-inch throat depth, making it suitable for a wide range of woodworking tasks.
    • Quick Release Mechanism: One of its standout features is the rapid action lever, which allows for quick adjustments. This mechanism disengages the screw for rapid repositioning of the jaws, significantly saving time during repetitive tasks.
    • Chrome-Plated Components: The steel T-bar handle and guide rails are chrome-plated, enhancing both the durability and the aesthetic appeal of the vise.
  2. Functionality and Performance
    • Buttress Threaded Main Screw: The main screw features buttress threads that provide superior clamping force and reliability. This design ensures that the vise maintains a firm grip on your workpieces without slipping.
    • Ease of Installation: While some users reported minor challenges in aligning the vise under their workbench, most found the installation process straightforward. The vise does not come with mounting hardware, so ensure you have the appropriate bolts on hand.

Installation and Setup


Setting up the Yost M9WW requires basic woodworking skills. The vise needs to be securely mounted to a workbench, and due to its 32-pound weight, having an extra pair of hands can be beneficial. Here’s a step-by-step guide to installing your new vise:

  1. Positioning: Decide on the optimal position on your workbench. Typically, vises are mounted at the front left corner for right-handed users.
  2. Marking and Drilling: Once positioned, mark the holes for the bolts. Drill appropriately sized holes for the bolts you’ll be using.
  3. Mounting: Attach the vise to the workbench using heavy-duty bolts. Ensure it’s tightly secured to avoid any movement during use.
  4. Alignment: Ensure the vise is aligned correctly to avoid any racking (where one side of the jaw is closer than the other).

Pros of the Yost M9WW


  • Sturdiness and Reliability: Users consistently praise the vise for its solid construction and reliable performance. Many find it an excellent value for its price, often comparing it favorably to higher-priced models.
  • Quick Release Mechanism: The rapid action lever is a significant advantage, especially for tasks that require frequent adjustments. This feature is appreciated for its efficiency and ease of use.
  • Value for Money: Priced competitively, the Yost M9WW offers features and build quality that rival more expensive vises. It's often highlighted as a great investment for serious woodworkers.

Cons of the Yost M9WW


  • Mounting Hardware: The lack of included mounting hardware is a minor inconvenience for some. Ensuring you have the right bolts before starting installation can mitigate this issue.
  • Size and Weight: While its robust build is generally a positive, the vise’s size and weight can make installation a bit cumbersome. However, this also contributes to its stability and durability.

Customer Reviews


  • John (December 30, 2022): "I really like this vise. It is good quality and works like expected. The quick release lever feature functions way better than those vises that do the reverse quick release."
  • Frederick (March 8, 2023): "Took a little while to line up under the bench but I think that is to be expected."
  • Richard (October 5, 2022): "Sturdy and well made. Works great. You have to supply the bolts to mount it."
  • RxLewis (April 19, 2022): "Great vise, very good value!! Mounting under the bench was a little challenging until I thought to clamp a couple of 2x4s to use as support. The rapid action saves time and wear and tear."

Conclusion


The Yost M9WW Rapid Action Woodworking Vise stands out as a reliable, durable, and efficient tool for both professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts. Its robust construction, coupled with the quick release mechanism, makes it a valuable addition to any workshop. Priced reasonably on Amazon here, it offers excellent value for money. While it requires some effort to install, the performance and ease of use it provides far outweigh this minor drawback.

For those looking to enhance their woodworking setup with a versatile and sturdy vise, the Yost M9WW is highly recommended. Its combination of durability, functionality, and user-friendly features make it a top choice in the market.

Whether you're new to woodworking or an experienced craftsman, this vise will meet and exceed your expectations, providing reliable service for years to come.