>
> There are a lot of scissors jacks out there. The mechanism always comes
> with a square thread and very solid crossbolts at the front and the back.
> If you have time and access to some equipment, you might consider making
> one into a vise.
>

While that is a fine idea, indeed, I do not have the wherewithal to take on
such a project.

My shop time is largely devoted to tutoring students through their assigned
curriculum.
Also I do have some physical limitations, thanks to the accumulated
injuries of 50 years, and the general passage of time.

Ideally, I'd like something that I can bore three holes through a skirt
board and front face for the rods/screw
a'la
https://www.woodcraft.com/products/woodriver-large-front-vise
http://www.rockler.com/heavy-duty-quick-release-front-vise
etc.