Griffin Odyssey Spider vise review

[smalljaw]

I just got my new Griffin vise, after using it for a few hours I figured I'd give a review in case there is a new member with a kit vise and looking to upgrade. The first thing is you notice that at the price point you are getting a rotary vise with no frills or bling, it is straight forward in looks and function. One thing I liked is that is has a lifetime warranty and it is mostly metal, when I checked out a 100 dollar Danvise 3/4 of it was plastic so that made me happy. Once I was set up and tying I realized I didn't care to much for the bobbin cradle, it is useful for palmering but not much else, at least for me it isn't. The rotary function is nice, it was something I thought I didn't need but it truly is incredible at the difference it makes, no more taking out a jig and turning it over. For those of you that say you don't need one, you're right but the easiest way to explain the difference is like going from dial up internet to broad band, you don't need to go that fast but once you have it you'll never go back willingly. I was very skeptical of the thumb screws for the jaws but amazingly they hold so much better than the last 2 vises but they were cheap ones so I didn't have anything to compare it too. Overall I'm happy, if someone doesn't have a lot to spend on a vise but you want a pretty good rotary vise then this is it, I've only tied for 3 hours but I like it and that is an understatement!!

 

[cadman]

Smalljaw, I have the same vice you have and for the money it is a good vice. I've had mine for 3 years and have no complaints.

 

[Fatman]

Thanks for the review

 

[AtticaFish]

I have the same vise also - but with the cam jaws - and love it. Doesn't sound like you would need to, but also saw that they sell the cam jaws separate for around $50, if you would ever want to upgrade that down the road. It is an excellent overall tool IMO.

You are spot on about the rotation of the vise..... never knew i needed it, till i tied on it, and won't go back if i can help it.

I use the bobbin cradle more now than i did at first, you get used to it and bet you will find yourself swinging it around more often as you tie with it. Is great for wrapping chenille or working with a dub loop. Does come in handy to keep your thread out of the way if you are creating a weave pattern also.