Rock Vice

I was limited on the rock size that could be cut in my saw by my clamp (about 8"). With this vice ... if I can grip it and get it under the hood, I can cut it ... even if it won't cut all the way through  (do the math ... it's still just a 20 in. blade), all you need to do is back it out and drive a wedge in the cut (I use brass - because I have them). This allows me to reduce big pieces into 2 & 3 in. sections for slabbing. The face plate has a recessed machine screw in the middle that allows plate to pivot. The other two (top&bottom) can be placed as needed to grip (the bevel on screws act as fingers). The holes are layed out @ 1, 3, & 4 1/2" centers on each piece. All that is required to grip the rock is a square or sharp edge for the screws to grab. Once you find your edges all you have to do is tighten the nuts on the all thread bolts. Be careful not to over tighten ... it's not a spalling tool - although you may end up with those results. Once your happy with the grip, set it in your saw clamp and get after it.

Part List

Face Plate (2 req.d) 6x3x1/2   Recessed center screw hole -  7/16", untapped   other 6 holes are 3/8", tapped - evenly spaced   @ 1/2", 1 1/2", 2 1/4" from Center Line Top Plate (1 req.d) 6x 1 1/2 x1    top (2) holes - 7/16", untapped - end hole is    3/8", tapped Bottom Plate (1 req.d) 6x 1 1/2 x1    top (2) holes are drilled 3/4" deep & tapped      for 3/8" threads - end hole is also 3/8",    tapped Machine Screws (6 req.d) 1 x 3/8" Nuts (8 req.d) 3/8" Flat Washers (6 req.d) 3/8" Lock Washers (4 req.d) 3/8" All Thread (2 req.d) 9 x 3/8"