On Tue, 10 Aug 2004 00:43:00 -0400, RickS wrote:

No matter the thickness ( 1/4", 3/8", whatever ), I agree that the
dowels (or M&T) will add to the shear strength of the jaw caps. If you
should have the need to clamp just the bottom 1/4" of a workpiece at the
top of your vise, this strength may be appreciated.

With that much thickness, the OP has the opportunity to make an awesome
dog. Just use hefty dowels. Lift the outer jaw on its pegs, and voila,
full-width dog. Nice.

Although the sliding dovetail suggestion sounds elegant...

--
"Keep your ass behind you"