My vise is 5 inches so I cut it off. I liked that the rubber inserts slide out, making it easy to cut the rubber about an inch further than the metal to leave an edge. The position of the magnets allows for incisions without touching the magnets or cutting off both ends. The rubber is firm enough on the aluminum that I don't have to worry about it slipping off when moving or sliding, and it's almost firm enough for everything, what is cylindrical should not come into contact with aluminum to cause scratches. Gum has a slight stickiness. The two plates stick to each other when pressed, there is nothing in between, and they stick to the clamped object even after releasing. So I applied dry teflon to it in addition to the new magnets. My only issue in general is the strength of the original magnets. I am not sure what they are made of. They splinter, spark, they're not black Most magnets can be snapped off. I've tried using them on my 30 year old 360x360 heavy duty vise and my new 360x360 heavy duty vise and they stay strong against simple gravity but are easy to knock off if the vise hits or they hit themselves meet or you have done. t save the gum. either oiled or dusted depending on whether you are working with metals, wood or plastic. But as a maker, I buy rough ideas and then model them. Since I don't have an aluminum roller, rubber roller, or electric magnetizer, but have access to a hacksaw, drill, and other magnets, this is great. Cut them to length, pull out the old magnets, adjust the holes and stick on new magnets and rods that will work for you for a lifetime.