Hans,
Hi, it holds hood very well. The vise operates the same as Fran Betters' vise I posted a while ago. The swing arm moves "forward" to open the jaws and to the rear to lock the hook in the jaws.
Will try to post a few more pics when I get a chance.
Tyrone,
It would be OK for travel. Of course, it has a bit of weight as the base must weigh over 3 lbs.