I ordered a Silhouette[the new entry level ($89) HMH vise] and it just arrived. I haven't had the opportunity to use it yet, but my initial impressions are that it is well worth the price. Although simple in design, the execution is nearly flawless and the materials are typical high quality that you'd expect from HMH. The standrod and vise body(tube) are tool steel heavily plated with nickle that has been very nicely brushed(almost hand rubbed) to a non-glare finish). The rest of the vise is stainless, brass, and case-hardened steel, just like the Spartan. I got the c-clamp base, which is cast aluminum with a non-coated finish. I plan to oxidize it black(checked with HMH and was told that this should work just fine) the c-clamp screws are machined brass. The jaws are similar to the HMH "Omni" jaws and can be replaced with optional jaws available by special order. The jaws adjust and rotate smoothly and appear to be first quality. All in all, I think this is a winner and a bargain.