Best Lee Valley Two-Jaw Chuck Brace

Though not inexpensive (there just aren’t as many good brace manufacturers around as there used to be), this is a good-quality brace and is exceptional for both round- and hex-shank bits. Manufactured in France, this 10″ sweep brace is sturdy and well finished, and operates smoothly with a ball-bearing head.

It is designed for use with bits that have square-taper tangs with short shanks (such as spoon bits, reamers, socket adapters, etc.), but also works with regular auger bits and round shanks from 3/16″ to 11/32″.

It has a composite head and grip.