[Metrology] Looking for a good depth Mic..?

EmilioG

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I'm shopping for a new/used depth mic and leaning towards the Starrett 449 blade type/non-turning.
What are your fav's what do you like and what don't you like, comments, suggestions all welcome.
Thanks
 
B&S round spindle. I bought mine thirty years ago and have never found need for anything else, although I did grind up some new rods for 0-1" and 1-2" with .062 diameters on the ends for thinner work.
 
I have a Mitutoyo 129-type depth gauge with the interchangeable rods and the Mit 7200 dial depth gauge, an indicator with a depth base and interchangeable extensions. Both read in 0.001" increments. To be honest, I use the dial-type more often - quicker and easier to read and much faster when comparing depths of surfaces.
 
I have a Starrett 445 set with rods up to 9" plus spares, a B & S smaller set, and a Starrett 463 mic. head with a small accessory depth foot on it. I use the 463 head for most simple work, and it fits into tight places and is smooth and easy to get a good feel with, the bane of depth mics. To me, smooth and calibrated rules. With my 0-9" set, purchased used and with new Starrett rods having been added, I have no idea if it is properly in calibration for every rod, so I calibrate it for each different one I need to use and then mark it as being calibrated. About the only advantage to buying a quality new set is that it is likely properly calibrated. A cheaper or used set will need to be tested and possibly calibrated for each rod length...
 
I just bought a Starrett 449 with 5 blades. 0-6". I like the non turning blades and this tool can measure thin slots and recesses.
I'll post pics when it arrives. Now I'm looking for radius gages. I see they only go to 1/2" Are they available in larger sizes?
I've had to resort to using washers for larger radii.
 
Dunno'. My Mit set only goes to 1/2" and its pretty big.
 
Thanks. The larger sets are very expensive. I guess I'll keep using washers for now.
 
Thanks. The larger sets are very expensive. I guess I'll keep using washers for now.
Of course that was MSC. Could be cheaper at the competition... I used MSC because I figured they would have some.
 
Thanks. The larger sets are very expensive. I guess I'll keep using washers for now.

I just turn the OD I need from scrap delrin and use that. Seems like I can never find the washer I need when I need it.
 
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