Dial Caliper

jabb · 12-22-2001, 11:08 AM

Anyone know where I can get a decent Dial Caliper...
Saw a nice Digital mm/inch. What is a good brand to get ??

Perfer not to use Harbor Frieght.

Thanks

Doug Zielke · 12-22-2001, 11:30 AM

I have two, a Mitsutomo and a Starett. Both are 6" capacity, and have a dial (as opposed to a digital) readout. These are quality instruments. They will outlast me and all my machines. You get what you pay for, so select the best. Available at industrial tool supply houses like Grainger.

KTL · 12-22-2001, 01:00 PM

Like Doug said, when it comes to precision measuring instruments, you get what you pay for.

I got a Starrett to replace my ancient, worn out one. I'm sorry to say I got it on eBay, but the guy had nice stuff for sale! I think I got it for ~$60 and it's really high quality. There's always a large amount of tool stuff on eBay.

If you don't eBay (and I don't blame you as I don't like the bid war hassle), try looking for a discount tool supplier in your area. They have their share of no-name stuff, but you'll also run into good stuff as well. Quality names like Chicago Pneumatic, Ingersoll-Rand, S-K, etc. Maybe they'll have some decent measuring instruments as well? Worth a shot.

The thing with Grainger is you'll pay a good buck for the stuff. Their advantage is they carry just about ANYTHING (I mean anything) you need. Great place, just not much of a discount on stuff. I hate the mark-up on everything we buy nowadays. If shops and stores didn't have these wacky 30% off sales around the holidays and other specials like that throughout the year, I wouldn't have a problem paying a fair buck for something. But when you know you're potentially (i.e. it'll be on sale next month, just watch) getting whacked on a price, you just can't buy.

5axis · 01:09 PM

Hi Joe. Try this link they are usually the cheapest or close to it. The 6" mit without SPC output $89 http://www.mscdirect.com/IWCatSectionView.process?IWAction=Load&Merchant_Id=1&Section_Id=1331&pcount=15&pbegin=0&RestartFlow=t

Look at Mahr, Mitutoyo, and Starret. I have mit's myself and have been quite happy with them. I would like to add a Mahr to my own collection. Take that for what it's worth, all of them are quite good.

Have fun with the high spot dykem. I am guessing you have found out by now that it gets everywhere and is a PIA to clean up. This makes it a great weapon for practical jokes. Have fun

david 89 turbo cab

jabb · 12-23-2001, 06:59 AM

Thanks David:

I checked out the Website and found a couple that will fit my needs. Thanks for the lead.