A vise is a mechanical device used to hold an object firmly in place while work is being done on it. It typically consists of two jaws, one fixed and one movable, which can be tightened or loosened using a screw mechanism. Vises are commonly found in workshops and are used in various trades, including woodworking and metalworking. There are different types of vises, such as the bench vise, which is mounted on a workbench, and the pipe vise, designed specifically for holding pipes. Vises enhance precision and safety by stabilizing materials during cutting, drilling, or shaping tasks.