I like the recessed jaws as they allow you to place the work piece on your shoulder so that it is level and there is room underneath for the drill bit to protrude can get too close to the drill. This also bypasses the process of placing a washer under the part. Then if you need a deeper clamp, place the part on the round guides as they are solid and you cannot damage them. up or down is sufficient as these vises really clamp as tight as the user wants. Then of course if you can't live without matching the entire surface then make some new sponges or install a gasket behind the old ones until the surfaces match. .The bottom line is that this vise maker understands what users really want and with a little ingenuity allows the user to make changes. I also allow you to adjust as the vise wears out. The overall design allows for quick product changes with a very secure clamp. I just don't see what's not to like about these vises other than the fact that they aren't free. kd