Record Vices

[MobileMech]

I have a couple of Record Vices. They are both quick release, 6” wide jaws and open to similar amounts. They both have a small anvil on the static jaw and they are about the same weight.
My question is, why would Record produce two different vices with similar specifications? Is there a special purpose that each one is designed for? Is one better than the other?

 

[Agroshield]

My question is, why would Record produce two different vices with similar specifications?

If you replaced 'Record' in the above with 'Vauxhall Astra', would that help?

The left hand one does not look compatible with a swivel base. It is possible they are from different years. It might be possible to find historic catalogues (start here https://archive.org/details/RecordCatalogueNo141935/page/n19/mode/2up) which will show the history and variants of the 36 model.

 

[timgunn1962]

It's probably just down to what sold.

Both the 36 and the 112 are steel/ SG Iron vices, so were unbreakable in normal use. It's worth noting that there was a "vanilla" Grey Cast Iron No6 of similar size, but with no QR and without the anvil, for most customers who didn't need the heavy-duty capabilities, and also the heavier Cast Iron 25: QR but no anvil.

I have a 114 (8") and can't fault it, but feel the 36 looks more elegant. The 36 also feels like it has better angles of approach when filing/grinding, though looking at the photos, there can't actually be much in it.

In a bloke-in-a-shed situation, it's a lot easier to make special jaws for the 11x-series than for the 3x-series.

 

[MobileMech]

If you replaced 'Record' in the above with 'Vauxhall Astra', would that help?

The left hand one does not look compatible with a swivel base. It is possible they are from different years. It might be possible to find historic catalogues (start here https://archive.org/details/RecordCatalogueNo141935/page/n19/mode/2up) which will show the history and variants of the 36 model.

Thank you for your reply. I have just spent the last hour reading through the Record catalogues you provided the link to.
I now know that the 36 model was designed for filing and fitting and the 112 is more robust and designed to be used for work that includes hammering. This finally makes sense of why one company made two products that seemingly compete.
The 36 is shaped with sloping top and more clearance round the jaws to enable fine work. The 112 is a more robust “squat” stance designed to perform to withstand beating and hammering.
Its interesting to note that the 112 isn’t recommended for a swivel base although it will fit one. My swivel base was bought separately and both vices can be mounted on it.
Thanks again, I always like to know as much detail about my tools and this has answered a question that has perplexed me for some time.
Out of interest, in the picture of the 36 vice is a record No1 vice that belonged to my dad. I am currently servicing it fettling it up. I can recall first using this vice as a three year old so its a nice thing to keep.

 

[MobileMech]

It's probably just down to what sold.

Both the 36 and the 112 are steel/ SG Iron vices, so were unbreakable in normal use. It's worth noting that there was a "vanilla" Grey Cast Iron No6 of similar size, but with no QR and without the anvil, for most customers who didn't need the heavy-duty capabilities, and also the heavier Cast Iron 25: QR but no anvil.

I have a 114 (8") and can't fault it, but feel the 36 looks more elegant. The 36 also feels like it has better angles of approach when filing/grinding, though looking at the photos, there can't actually be much in it.

In a bloke-in-a-shed situation, it's a lot easier to make special jaws for the 11x-series than for the 3x-series.

Yes, the 36 does look more elegant. Thanks for the reply. I shall set up the 112 on a separate solid mount, leaving the 36 on its “dainty” swivel mount on the bench.
I like the point you made about the ease of making special jaws for the 11 series, hadn’t thought of that.

 

[prepman]

It's probably just down to what sold.

Both the 36 and the 112 are steel/ SG Iron vices, so were unbreakable in normal use. It's worth noting that there was a "vanilla" Grey Cast Iron No6 of similar size, but with no QR and without the anvil, for most customers who didn't need the heavy-duty capabilities, and also the heavier Cast Iron 25: QR but no anvil.

I have a 114 (8") and can't fault it, but feel the 36 looks more elegant. The 36 also feels like it has better angles of approach when filing/grinding, though looking at the photos, there can't actually be much in it.

In a bloke-in-a-shed situation, it's a lot easier to make special jaws for the 11x-series than for the 3x-series.

I have the 25 never really realised the difference..it was a freebie and an invaluable tool. In constant daily use.
Mine....

Also...found one for sale on eBay....https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/256540441815