Vise blocks

[MetaMoose]

Hi folks, I am replacing the wood blocks on my vice for my 20 inch saw. The old wood was plywood. Is there any concern about using a hardwood instead of a ply for a vise block? I’ve purchased some red oak to use, expecting that it would last longer than a ply. I’d like to make sure there aren’t any major concerns. Thanks for the help.

[MetaMoose]

Jan 20, 2023 9:36:16 GMT -5 Bravura Cabochon Designs said:

That should work.
Sometimes the face of the vice behind that wood isn’t perfectly flat, and the boards can be cupped a little bit. Run the grain horizontally as opposed to vertically to avoid splitting the board when tightening to the vise.
Edited to add I’m assuming this is a horizontal vise, you might want to stick with plywood if it’s a vertical vise.

Understood, thank you. The plates appear very flat (its <1y old Highland Park), and the wood grain will run horizontal. Thanks for the response!

[jasoninsd]

Personally, I'd stick with the plywood...treated marine grade plywood...then I'd still coat with a waterproofing. I believe the plywood will actually last longer than the hardwood due to the ability to "conform" to a degree with what you're clamping - at least a lot better than the hardwood would do.

[realrockhound]

I use oak on mine. You’ll be good.