Nice comparison! I started with a Thompson A, then bought a locally made vise HMH Spartan , Then Regal Medallion, decided to try a rotary bought a Peak ( none of the fly shops near me carry Renzetti), had issues with the Peak jaws, finally bought the Regal Revolution, gives me the ease of hook attachment and rotary. On the not so good side the Revolution was $325 when I bought it. I am able to tie from size 28 to 4/0 hooks on the standard jaws. Typically when I use the rotary function is tying classic feather wing streamers, it makes bodies on 9xl hooks much faster and smoother. Just wish they included a bobbin holder.
Features I like about the Regal is the flat place where you can put your hand comfortably, also a really great feature is the dark head. There’s nothing shiny on it which really is easier on your eyes when tying for long periods.
I've often been tempted to get the Regal, but a C-Clamp vise wouldn't work for me. My tying station is a small roll-top desk. The c-clamp, if it fit at all, would prevent me from being able to open the desk drawer. The pedestal version of the vise is about $100 more. I don't understand why there is such a big difference in prices.
Recently, I got Traveler 2000, but the rotary mechanism allows me to smoothly rotate only in one direction while otherwise is unscrews and becomes loose. Do you know where I'm wrong?
You need to set and re-adjust the two round knurled adjustments knobs on each side of the rotary lever arm. That locks everything along the arm together.
