Review on Yost M7WW Fast-Acting Workhorse by Justin Olson

I purchased a 7" model on sale in December to use as an end vise on my woodworking machine. My bench has a 3" thick laminated top which meant I had to remove about 1/2" of material to get it flush with the top. This was a surprise to me given all the videos and photos I've seen of the Eclipse brand vise, which looks almost identical, and some of the larger Yost vises. I expected to have to add padding instead of removing material, but since my bench doesn't have a maple top I didn't mind cutting out the material. I just want to mention this for those who think he's on top. I believe it measures around 2.5 inches, while some of the larger models are 3.5 inches. Vise assembly: I can only speak of a 7" case when I say it's easy, but I can't imagine the same method wouldn't work well for a larger size. Yost included instructions in the box to be written for larger models, as he called for a spacer if your countertop is less than 3 inches thick. As I explained above, I have not. Also, the guide had what I think is the best method. Use #10 or 1/4" screws at least 2" long for the vise rear jaw and bolt to the workbench. I added a 3/4" poplar toe piece and countersunk the screws about 3/8". After screwing the vise to the end of my bench I was able to mark and drill holes in the bottom for the screws. Can't tell if the two screws in the jaw will hold the larger models, but I've had them with no issues. For the bottom, I used two 3/8" long 2" screws for the front holes and two 5/16" long 2-1/4" screws for the rear slotted holes. I would have used all 5/16" but didn't have any on hand. If I had a 9" or 10" version I would most likely use 3/8". I understand that some people find it necessary to install bolts through the top rather than lag bolts through the bottom. I suggest using what you feel safe, but Yost recommended using lag bolts through the bottom and I have a feeling they hold up well. After installing it, I added another poplar face for the back jaw and used a hand planer to trim both jaws to the tabletop. I use Vise every day and I really like them. The action is very smooth and the quick function is a must now that I've finally tried it. I don't know why I waited so long to get one of these, but at least I have one now. I have a feeling this vise will last a lifetime if properly cared for. Yost recommends dry lubricant for the vise screw and I just need to keep the sawdust off of it. I can make some sort of sheath that fits around the vise screw to keep it clean like some of the more expensive vise suggest. Finally, I highly recommend the Yost 7-inch high-speed woodworking vise.