Arrow Products has just released the second generation of their popular Rock Vise, featuring some subtle improvements. In this video, I’ll detail the 10 tasks we most frequently use the vise for!
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About the Arrow Products Rock Vise Gen 2
The Rock Vise has been a fixture in my shop since I first tested it, coming in handy for all sorts of tasks.
I regularly utilize two vises – one on my bench and one on a pedestal.
Accessories like the precision scope level further expand the versatility of this tool.
The most startling differences between Gen 1 and Gen 2 of the Rock Vise are that the lever has been relocated from one end of the assembly to the middle in Gen 2 and the color scheme is now green instead of red.
The optional fluted knob accessory is now green to match and shorter for improved ergonomics.
Discerning users will also notice that all engraving is now accomplished by laser rather than a mill.
It is important to note that all changes are backwards-compatible with Gen 1 Rock Vises.
What’s in the Box
The main assembly comes with instructions, mounting hardware, and a sticker. I also added a fluted knob and customized accessory tray.
Top 10 Uses!
The Rock Vise is extremely simple to use. A lever tensions the rod with a two-sided pinch clamp.
This labeled clamp is cut for ARCA on one side and for Picatinny on the other.
This is extremely useful for securing a variety of rifles and chassis. For this demonstration, I made sure the ARCA side was facing up, paired the ARCA rail on my Foundation Samson, and tightened the knob.
With the knob tight, I can quickly and easily loosen the lever to move the gun to any angle that may best suit the task at hand. If you desire more precise positioning, you can move the rod in and out with the object to be held still in the clamp.
1. Mounting Scope Rails and Scopes
While not necessary, I particularly like employing the Arrow Products scope leveling tool.
To use this tool, place the scope in the mount/rings on the rifle and establish proper eye relief.
Make sure that all screws are finger tight before removing the scope, make note of the scope’s position, and swap the rifle for the scope leveling tool.
Once the scope is leveled it can be installed on the rifle.
2. Barreled Action Install
Sometimes the best way to work on a particular part of a firearm is by holding it vertically.
The Rock Vise keeps the gun secure while optimizing access to the action screws for installing a barreled action.
3. Trigger Install
The Rock Vise also eases trigger installations. Generally I’m working with a REM700 clone action with an integrated Picatinny rail.
This rail serves as an ideal place to clamp the action into the vise. I always move the action as far forward as I can so that the clamp secures the action right under the trigger pins. Positioning the action this way provides the most room to place the trigger and hammer the pins into place.
4. AR Gunsmithing
The AR-15 Platform Mag Attachment Block makes working on AR’s especially convenient.
A small knob on its side controls the tension. With this accessory, you can mount a lower or full rifle and flip it completely upside down to accomplish any number of tasks. Another useful AR accessory is the Arrow Products Reaction Rod.
5. Cleaning
The Rock Vise is known for rock-solid holding. This is especially handy when cleaning rifles. No more awkward angles!
6. Pistol Gunsmithing
Any pistol with a forward Picatinny section will securely clamp into the vise. This makes mounting a red dot much easier!
7. Mounting and Clocking a Brake/Mounting Suppressors
When I want to mount or clock a brake I place one level on some feature of the rifle and a second on the brake.
With the rifle securely held in place I am free to do as much wrenching as I need without worrying about the rifle moving out of the level position. This is beneficial when mounting or swapping any sort of muzzle device, including suppressors.
8. Bedding Barreled Actions to Stocks
I do not bed stocks nearly as frequently as I perform activities 1 to 7 on this list, but it is still something I’ve been glad to have the Rock Vise for. One specific use case was bedding my .375 CheyTac barreled action to my Accurate Rifle Systems ELR Chassis.
This was a very involved process that required great attention to detail. I was very impressed with how solidly the vise held the 44-lb. rifle!
9. Mount and Adjust Buttstocks
Ultradyne’s UD Chassis System mounts directly to the ARCA clamp.
From this point I can swap or install any number of accessories, particularly buttstocks and grips.
I’ve swapped buttstocks without the Rock Vise before and can honestly say I won’t do so again.
10. Accessory Installation
Today’s accessory options are nearly endless.
Whether it’s a weight or part like a UD spigot, this tool allows for more efficient and elegant installation.
Conclusion
In all of the above use cases, the defining features are the rigidity with which the Rock Vise holds the firearm or part and the versatility it offers while doing so.
The ability to quickly adjust the angle of the firearm/part allows for optimal positioning every time. This single tool has made a measurable difference in my shop and I cannot recommend it enough.
What are you using your Rock Vise for? Let me know if I missed anything!
Get the Gear
Arrow Products Rock Vise Precision Firearm Vise
Arrow Products Precision Scope Leveling Mount
AR-15 Platform Mag Attachment Block
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Thanks,
Gavin Gear
