it is not cast iron or steel.It is wrought iron .This material is what blacksmiths used before steel was available.Material was smelted in a bloomery furnace and hand hammered to refine it the material has a grain like wood. thanks for your reply will try to get some pics tommorow

I am new to the forum and have a question.I purchased an antique wrought iron (not steel) post vise that is cracked This vice is to used not just looked at was wondering if tig welding with high percentage of nickel would be a good option.Thanks for the help if you have worked this material before. ...