Milwaukee 6" Leveling Tripod Chain Vise

Milwaukee has a solid reputation for producing reliable tools, but the 6" Leveling Tripod Chain Vise presents a mixed bag of experiences. As someone who regularly works with pipe and conduit, I was eager to see how this tool would perform in a professional setting. Here's my hands-on review based on extensive use over several months.

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the Milwaukee tripod chain vise appears robust and well-engineered. The tripod legs are made of steel, while the top is cast aluminum. This combination gives it a sturdy feel, and the tool weighs in at a substantial 51 pounds. The folding design is one of its standout features, making it easy to transport and store. The legs lock securely in both open and closed positions, preventing any accidental unfolding during transport.

However, the cast aluminum top has its drawbacks. Despite the steel wear surfaces overlaying the aluminum to enhance durability, the aluminum itself can be fragile. During my use, I noticed that the top could crack under high stress, particularly when working with larger pipes or applying significant force. This fragility is a major concern for a tool that's supposed to offer lifetime sturdiness.

Setup and Portability

One of the most appealing aspects of this tripod chain vise is its ease of setup. The two-step process is quick and straightforward. The adjustable leg is a fantastic feature, allowing you to level the vise on uneven surfaces. This makes it highly adaptable for various job sites, whether you're working in a basement or on a sloped outdoor area.

The vise folds flat, which is a blessing for anyone with limited storage space. It fits neatly into my work van, taking up minimal room. The portability is a significant plus, making it easy to move around different job sites without much hassle.

Functionality

The chain vise is designed to secure pipes up to 6 inches in diameter. In practice, the vise's grip is strong, and it holds materials firmly in place. I found it particularly useful for securing smaller pipes and fittings. The vise's large work surface provides ample space for tools and materials, which is a helpful feature.

However, the vise's performance is inconsistent when working with larger or more stubborn pipes. I experienced slippage when threading 3/4" and 1" schedule 80 carbon steel pipes and rigid steel conduit. The chain vise would often lose its grip, causing the material to scuff and making the task more time-consuming than necessary. This issue undermines the vise's reliability, especially for professional use.

Durability

Durability is where this tool falls short. Despite its sturdy appearance, the cast aluminum top's fragility is a significant drawback. I encountered several instances where the top cracked or broke under stress. This happened not just once but multiple times, which is unacceptable for a tool marketed for professional use.

The lack of a warranty further exacerbates the issue. Unlike some other brands that offer lifetime warranties, Milwaukee's tripod chain vise does not come with such a guarantee. This means that any damage or defects are essentially the user's responsibility, making it a risky investment for professionals who rely on their tools daily.

User Experience

On the positive side, the tool is easy to use and set up. The leveling mechanism is heavy-duty, consisting of a 1 1/2" ACME screw controlled by a double-ended handle on the long leg. This allows for precise adjustments and ensures the table is level, even on uneven surfaces.

Transporting the tool is also a breeze, thanks to its folding design. It’s easy to carry with one hand, and the quick-release lock on the tripod legs ensures they stay in position until needed. These features make it a convenient option for tradespeople who need a portable and easy-to-store solution.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee 6" Leveling Tripod Chain Vise has several commendable features, including its portability, ease of setup, and adjustable leg for leveling. The folding design and sturdy steel legs are also noteworthy. However, the tool's performance is marred by the fragility of the cast aluminum top and the inconsistent grip of the chain vise when working with larger pipes.

For light to moderate use, particularly with smaller pipes and fittings, this tripod chain vise can be a handy tool. Its portability and ease of setup make it suitable for tradespeople who need a versatile and easy-to-transport solution. However, for heavy-duty professional use, especially with larger pipes, the tool's durability issues and lack of a warranty are significant drawbacks.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Milwaukee 6" Leveling Tripod Chain Vise? It depends on your needs. If you're a professional who requires a reliable and durable tool for heavy-duty use, I would advise looking elsewhere. The fragility of the cast aluminum top and the lack of a warranty make it a risky investment for demanding tasks. On the other hand, if you need a portable and easy-to-use vise for lighter tasks and smaller pipes, this tool could be a viable option. Just be aware of its limitations and handle it with care to avoid potential damage.