I've been wondering why this is an either or question.

> David asked .. “if anyone who has used both (vise types) can make
> recommendation”

> The answer is simply - you need BOTH.

Good point.  If I could only have one, it would be the leg vise. I
find it most essential.

But it is possible to do anything without vises at all.  Look at the
bench this fellow is sitting on to rip a board.  It's the first photo
in the cabinet making section:

http://www.antiquetools.com/viet/

A Viet-Namese cabinet maker can do everything on one of these, 
everything.
I have two or three of these.  Mine are heavier, with 2X4 legs and 
braces,
and a 4 inch thick top.  Two are 6 feet long, and another is 8 feet 
long.
The long one has a bench hook.

I have one at Sutter's Fort.  I was able to document it for American use
since St. Roy featured one in an early segment of The Woodwright's Shop.
He called it a "planing bench."

Mike in Woodland