Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise Review

The Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise Made a Bold First Impression

As a seasoned gunsmith and 1911 enthusiast, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution of tools designed to simplify firearm maintenance. Enter the Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise, a compact and seemingly simple device promising to be a game-changer for 1911 owners. The Tipton name is synonymous with quality gun cleaning supplies, and I was eager to see if this latest offering lived up to their reputation.

My need for this arose from countless hours spent wrestling with my beloved 1911s during cleaning and minor repairs. Clamping a 1911 securely without marring the finish or damaging delicate components has always been a challenge. I had been using a combination of padded vises and makeshift supports, never truly satisfied with the stability or security they offered.

Upon unboxing the Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise, I was immediately struck by its robust construction. The black polymer felt dense and durable, promising a solid foundation. Its design was intuitive; a simple block designed to fit snugly into the 1911 magazine well.

I had previously considered similar mag well vise blocks from Real Avid and Wheeler Engineering. However, the Tipton product’s compatibility with the Tipton Best Gun Vise, which I already own, gave it a significant edge. This integrated approach promised a more streamlined and stable setup.

My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise exuded quality and thoughtful design. I was excited to put it to the test and see if it could truly simplify my 1911 maintenance routine.

Real-World Testing: Putting Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise to the Test

First Use Experience

My first encounter with the Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise was during a post-range cleaning session of my trusty Colt Government Model. I mounted the vise block onto my bench using the included fasteners. The setup was incredibly straightforward, even without the Tipton Best Gun Vise.

The vise block securely cradled the 1911 frame, offering a stable platform for cleaning the barrel, slide, and frame. Working with the Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise made cleaning significantly easier. It freed up both of my hands.

I encountered no immediate issues, even after applying moderate force while brushing the bore and scrubbing stubborn carbon deposits. The grip remained firm and secure. This eliminated the frustrating wobble I’d experienced with my previous setup.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise has proven to be a reliable and indispensable tool. The block shows no signs of wear or deformation, even after repeated clamping. The polymer material has held up beautifully.

Maintaining the vise block is a breeze. A simple wipe-down with a solvent-resistant cloth keeps it clean and free of debris. This contrasts sharply with my older methods, which required constant adjustments and re-tightening.

Compared to my previous makeshift solutions, the Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise is a revelation. It provides superior stability, security, and ease of use. It has truly streamlined my 1911 maintenance routine.

Breaking Down the Features of Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise

Specifications

• The Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise is specifically designed for use with 1911-style handguns. Its dimensions are tailored to fit standard magazine wells.
• It’s constructed from a high-density, solvent-resistant polymer. This ensures durability and resistance to chemicals commonly used in gun cleaning.
• The vise block is compatible with the Tipton Best Gun Vise. It can also be mounted directly to a workbench using included fasteners.
• It weighs approximately 6 ounces, providing a stable yet lightweight platform. This is essential for ease of use.
• The purpose of these specifications is to provide a stable, secure, and non-marring platform for cleaning, maintaining, and performing light gunsmithing tasks on 1911 pistols. The compatibility with the Tipton Best Gun Vise ensures a seamless and integrated setup. The solvent-resistant polymer prevents damage from cleaning chemicals.

Performance & Functionality

The Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise excels at its intended purpose: securely holding a 1911 for maintenance. It provides a rock-solid platform, allowing for confident cleaning and minor repairs.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. Its only weakness is it’s specific to the 1911 platform.

It absolutely meets and exceeds my expectations. The improved stability and ease of use have made my 1911 maintenance routine significantly more efficient.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is straightforward and functional. The polymer material is durable and lightweight, offering a comfortable and secure grip.

The Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise is incredibly user-friendly. There is no learning curve. Mounting and securing the 1911 is simple and intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The high-density polymer construction suggests excellent longevity. The Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise should withstand years of regular use.

Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down after use is all that’s required. The solvent-resistant material makes cleaning effortless.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise comes with mounting hardware for direct benchtop attachment. While there are no specific “accessories” for the vise block itself, its compatibility with the Tipton Best Gun Vise is a significant advantage.

The vise block works seamlessly with any standard 1911, regardless of manufacturer or aftermarket accessories. Its simplicity ensures broad compatibility.

Pros and Cons of Tipton 1911 Mag Well Vise Block Gun Vise