precision measuring tools

[rb70383]

What all does eveyone have? What is considered "must haves"? Micrometers, dial cailpers, etc. Digital or dial? Looking to get new tools for the project and realized I need to step up and get some. Anyone know a good source for 'em?

[CRead01]

depends what you are doing. if your doing your engine 1,2,3,4 mic's are nice. bore gauge, depth mic, step mic. Calipers are handy to have too. I like the digital but alot of people like the dial.

[rb70383]

Well mainly for engine building first off. Any good sources? I've been looking at powerhouse products. I dont want cheapo inaccurate ones yet I dont need professional grade either.

[Pro Stock]

What all does eveyone have? What is considered "must haves"? Micrometers, dial cailpers, etc. Digital or dial? Looking to get new tools for the project and realized I need to step up and get some. Anyone know a good source for 'em?

for engine work I recommend that you get a basic set of outside micrometers (0-5") a 6" digital caliper and a set of snap guages for checking inside diameters. I feel that the digital caliper is better than a dial because if you accidentally drop the digital you can reset "0" and it doesn't have a rack that is sensitive to dirt.

I recommed that you shop for these tools at J&L Industrial Supply also know as MSC Industrial Supply. Go to this web site and order a catalouge or shop online.

Good luck, Dale

www.jlindustrial.com/

[rb70383]

Thanks for the info Pro Stock!

[Taman]

I agree. Buy Starret. They are made in the USA. Don't buy that $4.95 for a 0 to 6" mic set. They suck.I am a tool and die maker and that's what I use. There are so many guys getting out of the trade, you can find used sets for cheap.

[dipren443]

I agree. Buy Starret. They are made in the USA. Don't buy that $4.95 for a 0 to 6" mic set. They suck.I am a tool and die maker and that's what I use. There are so many guys getting out of the trade, you can find used sets for cheap.

Starrett is nice. I have to admit to preferring Mitutoyo though. Fowler, Brown & Sharpe... All good quality pieces, but I would put Starrett and Mitutoyo towards the top.

MSC is a good source, but I think Enco may be a little cheaper.

http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INSRHM

[The WidowMaker]

the only issue with starret is the cheap bezel they are now putting on their stuff. i just picked a few items from them, and what used to be an aluminum bezel and crystal sight has now become all plastic. when youre paying top dollar the best, i wouldnt mind spending a few extra bucks for something that has ALL the best parts.

also, starett is no longer all american made. they have multiple series of instruments, and the cheaper are made offshore. the top dollar ones are still made here though.

[Steve in SoCal]

Hi,

I am new here but, I have been using precision measuring tools for years. I suggest you find good quality; Starrett, B&S, Mit etc used for two reasons. First they are much more reasonably priced but, IMO they are also far higher quality then the same products sold today. The other thing I suggest is a couple of 1" travel dial indicators and mag bases to dial in cams.

[droptop73]

Hi,

I am new here but, I have been using precision measuring tools for years. I suggest you find good quality; Starrett, B&S, Mit etc used for two reasons. First they are much more reasonably priced but, IMO they are also far higher quality then the same products sold today. The other thing I suggest is a couple of 1" travel dial indicators and mag bases to dial in cams.

I agree here. The better quality mics and calipers are a lifelong investment. IMHO find a good machinist and ask him to teach you to read the mics properly. Reading the scale is only 1/2 of the story. The feel is the most critical part. I would recommend measuring some pieces with known dimensions until you know what the proper "feel" feels like. BTW if you can find some older Sherr-Tumico micrometers BUY them. They are the best mics I have ever used (Starrett, mitutoyo, B&S, etc.)