
Get exclusive shopping offers and guides
Straight to your inbox
Finder is committed to editorial independence. While we receive compensation when you click links to partners, they do not influence our content.
Updated
Like most fly-fishing equipment, the fly-tying vise market has transformed over the past 30 years.
From the classic Thompson Model A vise to the latest that include the ability to attach lights, optic magnifiers and even cameras, tyers have never had so many choices.
Name | Average price | Platform | Base | Purchase |
---|---|---|---|---|
Regal Revolution | $550 | True rotary | Pedestal | Shop at Orvis |
Dyna-King Barracuda | $445 | True rotary | Comes in clamp and pedestal | Shop at Orvis |
Regal Medallion Regular Head | $275 | Non-rotary | Comes in clamp and pedestal | |
HMH Standard Vise | $310 | Non-rotary | Pedestal | Shop at Cabela's |
Griffin Montana Pro II | $90 | Non-rotary | Pedestal | Shop at Amazon |
The different types of vises are distinguished by their platform design and how they’re held onto the tying table.
The traditional platform is a standard non-rotary vise, where the hook is clamped in the vise jaws while the tyer winds thread and other material clockwise around the stationary hook. With a true rotary vise, the clamped hook rotates clockwise around the thread and material held by the tyer.
However, many non-rotary vises are designed to rotate 360 degrees around a central axis. Conversely, most true rotary vises can be locked so the tyer can wind material around the hook in the traditional manner.
By default, most fly-tyers choose the platform that they learned on. Devotees of both platform types are usually steadfast in their beliefs that one is better than the other.
But realistically, you simply need a tool that holds a hook to tie great flies. In fact, early fly-tying innovator Lee Wulff famously tied flies along the stream with one hand holding the hook, while the other wound the thread and attached fur and feathers to it.
If you’re just beginning to tie flies, you might want to try both to see which one works best for you.
Once you’ve chosen a platform type, the other major option to select is the base type. Some vises are designed for the shaft to be C-clamped to the edge of a table or other surface. Other vises are designed to fit inside a heavy base — usually made of metal, granite or other stone — called a pedestal. Some vise kits include both table clamp and pedestal.
When shopping for vices, consider these key features:
Before you get started, you’ll need to stock up on a few other tools and accessories, like:
Whether you’re just starting out or have been tying for years, the right vise can make your fly-tying efforts easier, faster and more enjoyable.
Ready to buy? Compare top fly-fishing vises
Ready to hit the stream? Outfit yourself with the perfect fishing vest to securely store your newly-tied flies.
We compared the price, type and overall features of some of the most popular fly-tying vises currently available, factoring in our own personal experiences as well as third-party online reviews.
If you’re looking for masks with breathability, whether for exercising or just to increase airflow, look at our top picks.
The right pair of boots can keep your feet dry, stable and comfortable while reeling in a catch.
Don’t get left on the stream without everything you need for a successful trip.
Hit the hay with the perfect pillow picked just for you.