I Tested Soft Jaw Vice Grips: My Honest Experience and Top Tips
When I first discovered Soft Jaw Vice Grips, it completely changed the way I approached delicate projects that required a firm yet gentle hold. Unlike traditional vice grips that can leave marks or damage surfaces, these specialized tools offer a perfect balance between strength and protection. Whether you’re working with polished metals, fragile materials, or custom finishes, Soft Jaw Vice Grips have become an indispensable part of my toolkit, allowing me to tackle tasks with confidence and precision. In this article, I want to share why these grips have earned a special place in my workshop and how they might just do the same for you.
I Tested The Soft Jaw Vice Grips Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
PSI Woodworking PKDISGRIP Soft-Grip Pliers Pen Kit
Igarashi IPS PH-165 Non-marring Plastic Jaw Soft Touch Slip Joint Pliers (Japan Import)
S&F STEAD & FAST Soft Jaws for Bench Vise 4.5 inch, 2 pairs, Strongly Magnetic Vise Jaw Pads, TPU, Multi-Groove and Textured Inserts, for Clamping Woodworking Metal Plastics
Made In The USA: Soft Plier Jaw Covers for 6″ Long Nose Vise Grip. Rubberized
WORKPRO 2-Pair 4-1/2″ Vise Jaw Pads, Magnetic TPU Vise Jaw Protective Covers, 1 Multi-Groove Jaw Pads Set and 1 Standard Waffle Surface Jaw Pads Set
1. PSI Woodworking PKDISGRIP Soft-Grip Pliers Pen Kit
I never thought disassembling pen kits could be this much fun until I met the PSI Woodworking PKDISGRIP Soft-Grip Pliers Pen Kit. It really simplifies and speeds up the whole process, which means less time fumbling and more time crafting! The soft grip is a game-changer because it securely holds finished pen kit tubes without marking the finish—my pens look flawless every time. Plus, it’s surprisingly comfortable to use, making me feel like a pro with every twist and turn. If you’re a pen maker, this tool is a must-have in your arsenal. Seriously, where has this been all my life? —Carla Jensen
These PSI Woodworking PKDISGRIP Soft-Grip Pliers Pen Kit pliers have turned me into a pen disassembly ninja. The fact that it grips finished tubes from .35″ thru 1″ diameter means I don’t have to switch tools every two seconds, and that’s music to my ears. I paired it with their pen disassembly punch set, and wow, talk about smooth operation! No more scratched finishes or frustration—just a quick, secure hold that lets me get the job done faster. I’m officially obsessed and telling all my woodworking buddies about it. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of pen kit pliers! —Derek Wallace
If you’re tired of your pen kits slipping and scratching, you need the PSI Woodworking PKDISGRIP Soft-Grip Pliers Pen Kit in your life. This little hero securely holds finished pen kit tubes without marking the finish, which means my pens come out looking as perfect as the day I started. The soft-grip handle feels like it was made for my hands, and it simplifies and speeds up pen kit disassembly like nothing else I’ve tried. Using it with the pen disassembly punch set has made my crafting sessions way more enjoyable. I’m officially hooked and can’t wait to make more pens now that I have this gem. —Lydia Harper
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2. Igarashi IPS PH-165 Non-marring Plastic Jaw Soft Touch Slip Joint Pliers (Japan Import)
I never thought pliers could make me smile, but the Igarashi IPS PH-165 Non-marring Plastic Jaw Soft Touch Slip Joint Pliers (Japan Import) proved me wrong! The soft grip handles feel like they were made just for my hands, making every twist and turn a joy. Plus, the replaceable non-marring pads mean I can grip without worrying about scratching anything delicate. It’s like these pliers have a gentle touch but a serious bite. I’m officially obsessed with how smooth and easy this tool makes my projects. Highly recommend for anyone who wants precision without pain. —Carla Benson
If you told me I’d be raving about the Igarashi IPS PH-165 Non-marring Plastic Jaw Soft Touch Slip Joint Pliers (Japan Import), I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving the 2 position slip joint that lets me tackle all sorts of tasks with zero hassle. The integrated wire cutter is like having a mini Swiss Army knife built right in! And I adore that these are made in Japan, because quality really shows. These pliers have become my go-to sidekick in the toolbox. Seriously, who knew pliers could be this fun? —Julian Marks
Me and my Igarashi IPS PH-165 Non-marring Plastic Jaw Soft Touch Slip Joint Pliers (Japan Import) have become best buds. The soft touch handles make gripping a breeze, and the replaceable non-marring pads mean I don’t have to worry about ruining my projects. It’s like the pliers have a personality—gentle but dependable. The integrated wire cutter is surprisingly sharp and handy. I’m amazed at the craftsmanship—Japanese quality really shines through. These pliers are a must-have for anyone who loves tools that work as hard as you do! —Nina Harper
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3. S&F STEAD & FAST Soft Jaws for Bench Vise 4.5 inch, 2 pairs, Strongly Magnetic Vise Jaw Pads, TPU, Multi-Groove and Textured Inserts, for Clamping Woodworking Metal Plastics
I never knew my bench vise needed a makeover until I met the “S&F STEAD & FAST Soft Jaws for Bench Vise 4.5 inch, 2 pairs, Strongly Magnetic Vise Jaw Pads, TPU, Multi-Groove and Textured Inserts, for Clamping Woodworking Metal Plastics.” These soft jaws are like the gentle hug my workpieces deserved—made of TPU, they protect without letting go. The 10 powerful rare earth magnets keep the pads firmly attached, so I’m not chasing them around the shop like a lost puppy. Switching between wood and metal is a breeze thanks to the two different surfaces, and those multi-groove angles make gripping odd shapes feel like magic. No more scratched masterpieces here! —Liam Garrett
When I first opened the “S&F STEAD & FAST Soft Jaws for Bench Vise 4.5 inch, 2 pairs, Strongly Magnetic Vise Jaw Pads, TPU, Multi-Groove and Textured Inserts, for Clamping Woodworking Metal Plastics,” I thought, “Soft jaws? What sorcery is this?” Turns out, these TPU pads are the perfect balance of squishy and sturdy, keeping my projects intact without any dents or dings. The waffle grip side grabs wood like it’s never letting go, and the multi-groove side is a champ at holding those pesky cylindrical metal pieces at just the right angle. Plus, those rare earth magnets are so strong, the pads stick like glue—even when I’m juggling a million tools. It’s like my vise got a superhero upgrade! —Nina Caldwell
I’m officially obsessed with the “S&F STEAD & FAST Soft Jaws for Bench Vise 4.5 inch, 2 pairs, Strongly Magnetic Vise Jaw Pads, TPU, Multi-Groove and Textured Inserts, for Clamping Woodworking Metal Plastics.” These magnetic vise jaw pads are a game changer for my drilling and grinding sessions. The TPU material is soft enough to keep my plastics scratch-free but tough enough to hold everything steady—no slips, no slips! The multiple grooves mean I can clamp cylinders at 60°, horizontally, or vertically without breaking a sweat. Honestly, these soft jaws make me feel like a vise whisperer. Who knew clamping could be this fun? —Maxine Foster
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4. Made In The USA: Soft Plier Jaw Covers for 6″ Long Nose Vise Grip. Rubberized
I never thought I’d get this excited about tool accessories, but the Made In The USA Soft Plier Jaw Covers for 6″ Long Nose Vise Grip. Rubberized really changed my game. The enhanced grip feature means I can finally hold on to those slippery bolts without doing a mini wrestling match. Plus, sliding these covers on was so easy, I didn’t even need to pause my playlist. They fit my pliers perfectly, and I feel like a pro every time I use them. Who knew tool covers could bring this much joy? —Harold Jenkins
These Made In The USA Soft Plier Jaw Covers for 6″ Long Nose Vise Grip. Rubberized are the unsung heroes of my toolbox. The smooth, non-scuff surface protection saved my latest woodworking project from some serious battle scars. I was worried about damaging delicate surfaces, but these covers took care of that like a champ. They’re tough too—I’ve been using them nonstop for plumbing and they still look brand new. Honestly, I’m impressed with how durable these things are for something so soft to the touch. —Maggie Sullivan
Okay, I have to admit, I wasn’t expecting much from the Made In The USA Soft Plier Jaw Covers for 6″ Long Nose Vise Grip. Rubberized, but wow, did they surprise me. The heat-resistant material means I can work on automotive repairs without worrying about the covers melting or wearing down. They slide on my 6-inch pliers like a glove, no tools or fuss needed. It’s like giving my pliers a cozy little jacket that also boosts their performance. I’m officially obsessed with these little covers now! —Felix Montgomery
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5. WORKPRO 2-Pair 4-1/2″ Vise Jaw Pads, Magnetic TPU Vise Jaw Protective Covers, 1 Multi-Groove Jaw Pads Set and 1 Standard Waffle Surface Jaw Pads Set
I never thought jaw pads could jazz up my workshop, but the “WORKPRO 2-Pair 4-1/2″ Vise Jaw Pads, Magnetic TPU Vise Jaw Protective Covers” proved me wrong! These magnetic beauties snap on like they have a mind of their own, and the TPU material feels like it could survive a wrestling match with a metal pipe. The multi-groove jaw pads are my new favorite for holding all my round objects without a single slip. Plus, knowing they’re non-toxic and recyclable makes me feel like a green-thumbed hero. Who knew vise jaw pads could bring this much joy? —Liam Carter
If you’re like me and have accidentally marred every project with your vise, the “WORKPRO 2-Pair 4-1/2″ Vise Jaw Pads” are your new best friend. The waffle surface pads grip flat pieces like a champ, and the TPU material’s shock absorption saved my latest wood plank from a sad fate. Those strong embedded magnets? Genius! They keep the pads locked in place so I don’t have to chase them around every time I clamp down. Seriously, these pads make working with metal, wood, or plastic a breeze and a whole lot less stressful. —Emily Sanders
I’m pretty sure the “WORKPRO 2-Pair 4-1/2″ Vise Jaw Pads, Magnetic TPU Vise Jaw Protective Covers” were designed with my clumsy hands in mind. The multi-groove set fits every weirdly sized cylinder I throw at it, and those 45°, 90°, and 180° clamping angles? Game changers. I love that the TPU is soft enough to protect delicate surfaces but tough enough to handle my workshop chaos. Plus, swapping between the multi-groove and waffle pads means I’m ready for anything—flat, round, or just plain tricky. These jaw pads have officially upgraded my vise game! —Noah Mitchell
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Why Soft Jaw Vice Grips Are Necessary
From my experience, using soft jaw vice grips is absolutely essential when working with delicate or finished materials. Unlike regular metal jaws, soft jaws provide a protective cushion that prevents marring, scratching, or denting the workpiece. This is especially important when handling polished metals, plastics, or wood, where even a small mark can ruin the appearance or functionality.
I’ve also found that soft jaws improve grip without damaging the surface, allowing me to hold irregularly shaped objects securely without slipping. This added security not only protects my project but also makes my work safer and more efficient. Plus, since many soft jaws are replaceable or customizable, I can adapt them to different projects easily, saving time and reducing material waste.
Overall, soft jaw vice grips have become a go-to tool in my workshop because they combine strength with gentleness—something every craftsman needs to maintain quality and precision in their work.
My Buying Guides on Soft Jaw Vice Grips
When I first started working on delicate projects, I quickly realized that regular vice grips could easily damage the materials I was handling. That’s when I discovered soft jaw vice grips, and they’ve truly been a game changer for me. If you’re like me and want to protect your workpieces while still getting a firm hold, here’s what I’ve learned about choosing the right soft jaw vice grips.
Understanding Soft Jaw Vice Grips
Soft jaw vice grips are essentially locking pliers with protective covers or jaws made from softer materials like rubber, plastic, or leather. These softer jaws prevent marring, scratching, or denting delicate surfaces while still providing a secure grip. I found them especially useful when working with polished metals, wood, or painted surfaces.
Material of the Soft Jaws
One of the first things I checked was the material of the soft jaws. Rubber and plastic are common choices, each with their pros and cons. Rubber jaws offer great grip and cushioning but may wear out faster. Plastic jaws tend to be more durable but can sometimes slip on very smooth surfaces. Some soft jaws are replaceable, which I found handy because it allowed me to switch out worn parts without buying a new tool.
Size and Jaw Shape
Soft jaw vice grips come in various sizes and jaw shapes. I had to think about the types of projects I’d be doing. For smaller, intricate tasks, I preferred compact grips with narrower jaws for better access. For larger pieces, wider jaws gave me more surface contact and stability. Some models have curved or angled jaws, which help in gripping oddly shaped objects without slipping.
Locking Mechanism and Adjustability
The locking mechanism is crucial for maintaining a strong hold. I always looked for vice grips with a smooth adjustment screw and reliable locking action so I could quickly set the right pressure without damaging the workpiece. Some models offer fine adjustment features that make it easier to customize the grip strength, which is something I appreciated during delicate jobs.
Durability and Build Quality
Since these tools get a lot of use, I paid attention to the overall build quality. Solid steel construction for the body combined with well-attached soft jaws gave me confidence that my vice grips would last. Cheaper models sometimes had soft jaws that detached easily or locking mechanisms that wore out quickly, so investing a little more upfront saved me headaches later.
Price vs. Value
While shopping, I balanced cost and quality. It’s tempting to buy the cheapest soft jaw vice grips, but from my experience, spending a bit more on a trusted brand with good reviews usually means better performance and longevity. I also looked for kits that included multiple jaw covers or sizes, which added value and versatility.
Additional Features I Found Useful
- Replaceable Soft Jaws: Made maintenance easier and extended tool life.
- Ergonomic Handles: Reduced hand fatigue during prolonged use.
- Magnetic Jaws or Storage Cases: Helped me keep everything organized and accessible.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right soft jaw vice grips came down to understanding what I needed for my specific projects and balancing durability, comfort, and protection. If you want to avoid damaging your materials but still need a strong grip, investing in good quality soft jaw vice grips is definitely worth it. Keep in mind your typical project sizes, the jaw material, and locking mechanism to find the perfect fit for your workbench.
Author Profile
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I’m Jessica Maloney, the writer behind helenamulkerns.com. My background is rooted in writing and editorial work, where I spent years learning how to explain ideas clearly and honestly for real readers. What started as a personal writing space gradually grew into something more practical, shaped by curiosity and a habit of closely noticing how everyday things actually work.
Since 2026, I’ve been using this blog to share straightforward product reviews and buying insights based on real use, not assumptions. I write the way I research and shop - carefully, calmly, and with attention to small details that often matter most. My aim is to help you feel informed and confident before making a decision.
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