Help Finding Caliper/Micrometer

[gottahaveit27]

Can somebody help me find a decent caliper or micrometer for around $30. I'm not really sure if I should be looking at calipers or micrometers and which type of either would best suit my purposes. I just began my infi addiction :thumbup: and I have a couple of knives that I want to measure. Thanks guys!

 

[MORIMOTOM]

a micrometer measures in smaller increments and typically require more turning of the dial in order to measure. if you are reloading, a micrometer might suit you better.

if you're like me and just like to measure the thickness of knives or other items, the caliper is the way to go.

i find a caliper is simpler and quicker to use. try any sears or decent hardware store and you should be able to find one within your price range.

 

[T.A.C.]

I have a Cen-Tech 6" Digital Caliper item #47257, works great for me. I think it was around $17.00 if I remember correctly. Find them on the internet. They even give you an extra battery with it. You can switch from inch to Metric.

 

[Guyon]

Try Harbor Freight.

 

[GregS]

I have a digital Storm caliper that I've been using for a couple years now in my shop, problem free, changed the batteries once, it was 60.00. A caliper is great for casual measurement, but a micrometer will be more precise more often than not. Here's a link for a nice micrometer, it isn't digital but costs less... this is not storm spam.
http://www.sjdiscounttools.com/sto3m201.html

 

[gottahaveit27]

Thanks guys I'll check out your suggestions. I appreciate the help!

 

[Guyon]

This is the set I own. http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=47257 Same set that T.A.C. mentions.

 

[gottahaveit27]

Wow really good price. It seems to be very accurate?

 

[Guyon]

I've tested mine against a dial caliper, and it seems just fine.

Frankly, I think the Cen-Tech is exactly the same as the Frankford Arsenal calipers. It looks exactly the same except for colors. Probably made in the same factory. You can read some reviews of the Frankford Arsenal set here:

http://www.midwayusa.com/eproductpage.exe/showproduct?saleitemid=604242&t=11082005

 

[gottahaveit27]

Thanks again all. I think I will go with the cen-tech. For $10 I guess I really can't go wrong. The help is very much appreciated

 

[shunsui]

Wow, great price. I've got the old dial version and it cost a lot more. I think I'll stick to the old one since it doesn't need batteries.

 

[Guyon]

gottahaveit27, if you go to a local HF, be sure to take a print-out of the web page. Even if the store price doesn't match the sale price online, they'll match it.

 

[gottahaveit27]

Yeah, thanks guyon, that's a good thought. Maybe I will try that and save myself the shipping. :thumbup: