Thread: Measuring for the Lathe

Depending on the accuracy that you desire I dont think you will have a problem with the cheaper Chinese made Mics.

You see them in sets of 4 locally for around $100.00 if not less,at times you can find them in sets of 3 for less.

They will come in either Metric or Imperial,you just need to make sure if you happen to buy used and not new that they come with their measuring standards.

Normally if you are making a replacement part from sample it wouldnt matter if the Mics were reading out,as you are measuring as you make with the Mics that will be used for final size,so if it was reading .1mm out or .010" out the job would still be fine.

If you wanted a better quality Mic you could look for Mitutoyo,Starret,Moore & Wright etc.

You may even consider a set of Telescopic Gauges if doing a lot of bores ( these I would suggest should be of good quality as the working parts of the cheaper ones leave a bit to be desired).
Most of the sets will be 25 to 100mmOD or 1 to 4" OD.

The only common problem with the Chinese type is the actual size of the Mics,for short lengths they can sometimes be awkward to get the tips to sit on the job to be measured .

Hi, I bought a set of 4 micrometers from the bloke in Adelaide for less than a $100.00 and a set of telescopic gauges for about $30.00 (? can't remember).
I only had a short play with them both as they are my Xmas present from my Mum. The micrometers didn't look to good but will do and don't bother with the telescopic gauges cheap and nasty.
Will have to wait until after Xmas for a closer look and play. I will eventually upgrade to Mitutoyo's.

Ben.