Caliper (Vernier or dial) (what is good brand / model for the money??

[pharmvet]

From time to time, I find myself needing a caliper. I certainly dont need one often enough to spend a large amount of money for a top of the line model, but I dont like cheap imports either. For those of you who are in the know on these, what is a good brand and model for the money? What style do you find most user friendly. Can you get a good set for $100. I dont mind buying an old one, in fact, it seems that some of the older ones might be higher quality than some of the newer disposable ones. I would appreciate your thoughts on the matter. thanks

 

[Travelover]

Re: Vernier Caliper (what is good brand / model for the money??

Check out EBay. I sold a bunch of calibrated Swiss instruments from my father in laws estate there for less than $100 each.

 

[davedj1]

I have three cheapies from HF and have no complaints, I use them for checking thickness of shims for rearend regears. I like the digital readouts too.

 

[bearcreek paul]

Starrette,Brown&Sharpe and Mitutoyo are all good.Mitutoyo will be the cheaper one but still good quality.The 1st two should still be made in America.Check out the flea markets some great deals out there.

 

[2LMAKER]

I use Mititoyo every day very reliable. 1 of mine is 15 years old and still work. Battery last a long time and I never shut them off. I think they about $125 on sale
One thing on dial is chips can get in rack and make them skip a tooth.
I have one cheap set ( grizzly I think ) and they are pretty accurate but battery doesn't seem to last.

 

[crazyal]

I bought a used 6" set of Mititoyos off of ebay for under $50.

 

[bearcreek paul]

All the calipers I mentioned were dial.Used ones you should get for under 100.Mine have been in use for 30 years give or take a few years and still work like new.You should be able to buy new for about 150.These tools follow the old adage you get what you pay for.
If taken care of they will serve your children well and theirs also.

 

[ayelvington]

I have three cheapies from HF and have no complaints, I use them for checking thickness of shims for rearend regears. I like the digital readouts too.

I have HF calipers also, and they have never let me down. (dial and digital)

 

[Archer EV]

I have worked in Quality Assurance for many years and have used many types and brands of measuring instruments. I have found Mitutoyo to be a good value. I bought a 6" Mitutoyo vernier caliper from MSC about four years ago. I use it daily and have only replaced the batteries a couple of times. You may wish to check out MSC.

Calipers from MSC Industrial Supply Co.

 

[foggy1111]

I own a Starrett, B&S, and have owned a Mititoyo....and a bunch of low priced stuff. I much prefer the way the Brown and Sharpe operates via their thumb-slide. Only one like it. I believe they cost a bit more....and are worth it. They all measure correctly. I like dials over digital.