The GRS BenchMate Multi-purpose Vise

Here is a heavy-duty workhorse from GRS: the GRS BenchMate Multi-purpose Vise!
==+ TAP 'SHOW MORE' FOR DETAILS AND LINKS TO INFORMATION SHARED IN THIS VIDEO
The GRS BenchMate Encore QC and QCX are terrific systems for stone setters with limited space as is the MicroBlock. I love the idea of the Encore, but wanted something heavier duty that could do other jobs in the studio, too.
I've included information below about my setup, some 'how-to' links from GRS about the tools, plus resources I found helpful when researching the GRS MicroBlock and Encore QC/QCX options. After filming this video, I did want to point out a couple areas where the MicroBlock or Encore systems can be a better choice:
1) Speed: the MicroBlock is a ball vise, so a simple flick of the wrist will move your piece right where you want it for setting stones and small engraving projects. The Encore has easy-access knobs to adjust rotation, tilt, and height (QCX version). Changing everything but height is possible with the Multi-purpose Vise, it just takes a bit more time for the tilt because the device uses a bolt instead of a handle like it does for rotation. I am thinking about getting a dedicated wrench in the right size for mine.
2) Working with a microscope: the Multi-purpose Vise stays at the level your mount is at. The Encore QCX allows you to quickly adjust height so viewing through the microscope is just right. You'll have a similar challenge with the MicroBlock that you will with the Multi-purpose Vise, but there is a solution: set up your studio so these vises are at the best viewing position for your microscope 'most of the time.' I have a GRS slide-and-lock, but would hesitate to use the heavy-duty Multi-purpose Vise on it to raise and lower. I didn't find any information about this, so it may be worth a call to GRS if you use a microscope and want to see if it's an option for you.
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My GRS Multi-purpose Vise Setup
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For a total of $483 (March, 2022), I was able to get everything I needed to set stones, hold metal for power carving with flex shaft burs, hold a pitch tray for repousse work, and even my mandrels for hammering. This was a much better long-range purchase for my workshop setup and, when I'm ready to dig into engraving, all I need to do is add the GRS Standard Block to my shop.
Here are links to the products I'm sharing in this video from RioGrande:
==) GRS Multi-purpose BenchMate Vise (rotates 360 degrees like a lazy susan and tilts): www.riogrande....
==) GRS Inside Ring Holder for Bench Blocks or Vises (not to be confused with the ring holders build specifically for the Encore system): www.riogrande....
==) GRS BenchMate Pin Plate Set (converts the vise to use the small holders in the attachment set - vise does come with four larger holders): www.riogrande....
==) GRS 520 30-piece Attachment Set (works in any GRS vise or block): www.riogrande....

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Helpful Videos from GRS Using Tools in My Setup
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Here are a couple of videos I found on GRS Tools channel for pieces in my setup. I couldn't find any for the multi-purpose vise which is why I decided to make my own :)
==) How to hold work with the 520 attachment set: • GRS University: 520 At...
==) How to use the I.D. ring holder: • GRS University: I.D. R...

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Great Videos About the Encore QC and QCX Plus GRS MicroBlock
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When you're thinking about your studio setup, it's important to research the heck out of options. There are some of the best videos and resources I found along the way when I was deciding what to invest in first.
==) Comparison of the GRS BenchMate Encore QC and QCX (GRS Tools): • GRS University: Differ...
==) GRS BenchMate Encore 'add-ons' (GRS Tools): • GRS University: Benchm...
==) GRS MicroBlock vs. Encore (Lucy Walker): lucywalkerjewe...

I hope my video about the GRS BenchMate Multi-purpose Vise and tools you can use with it helps someone out there who is considering all the different options GRS has to offer. They are a fantastic company with great support for jewelers. Their tools are built to last and I can see using this vise for many years to come.

[@xx-vk5ol]

Love this style of one take video, no fancy editing just straight to the point. Thank you for this video, it helped alot.

[@10Gables]

Thanks Michael! I am glad you enjoyed the video. I've had the vise in my shop a few weeks now and find myself using it often. :)

[@lizhos]

Hi there, I love the pin adapter you drop into the top, I can[t seem to find it as a thing sold separately, can you help with the name of it or a link to buy them. Thanks

[@10Gables]

I included links to everything shown in the video description so you can get to all the products from there 💕 That piece is called a benchmate pin plate set. Please read the product description carefully at Rio or GRS as it may not work in other vises. Hope this helps!

[@lizhoskinson6770]

@@10Gablesah thank you, I didn’t see the description. That’s really helpful, unfortunately I can’t find it in the UK. Thank you

[@sylviaprudhomme5417]

Very good explanations

[@10Gables]

Thanks Sylvia!

[@M00Nabove]

Thank you so much for the review! I was looking at the grs vices (the blocks) and the bench mate versions and didn't know which option would be the best for my workshop and for the work I do and want to do. I usually set stones in heavy thick bezels (or would like to) and so I had my doubts about using the ball block. Then I saw this vice online and thought it might actually serve the purpose and save me lots of money and your review confirmed my assumption - this is probably the most reasonable way to go for me. So thanks a lot for helping me save hundreds of Euros. :)))
Also - genius ways of using the thermo lock :) I don't use it but it looks like a very useful thing. :)

[@10Gables]

I am glad it helped! I hope it works well for you. I am still loving mine. :)

[@M00Nabove]

@@10Gables Thank you. Great to know you're still happy with yours. :)

[@donnagreene4454]

Thank you so much for doing this review, Chris! It really helped clarify the choices in my mind. Much appreciated!!

[@10Gables]

Glad it was helpful!

[@sarahbethfederman]

Have you used it for any engraving? I'd love to try engraving but I don't have the bench space and money for a ball vice

[@10Gables]

Hello! You will need an engraving block (many call it a ball vise) for engraving because you need to be able to tilt in all directions. With engraving, you move the work, not your tool (kind of like sawing). I have used it for chasing and repousse work with a pitch board and it does well for this because you're moving the tools, not so much the work. Hope this helps!

[@sarahbethfederman]

​@@10Gables ah thank you for the info! So you aren't able to leave the rotation and tilt unlocked while working? Or is it just a bit more cumbersome to move/more limited than a ball?