Reloading calipers?

[Daves762]

Ok what's everybody use for a caliper for reloading? I had a cheap one from Menards and it stopped measuring right. Basically the measurements are in half almost from what they should be. Should I just buy another cheap one or get a Mitutoyo?

I've been using calipers and micrometers since 1993. Employers have provided all kinds of imported garbage, and I've used them all.
The one brand name I buy out of my own pocket, to ensure accuracy of my work is worth every penny............

Dial Calipers (starrett.com)

 

[Daves762]

You want the best, go for a Brown & Sharpe. I was a machinist for a few years, and my calipers, mics, and dial indicators were all Brown & Sharpe, and pretty much that was the standard for everybody. There were some Mitutoyo's as well, and they were fine as well.

I agree, these are good as well.

 

[Daves762]

Also, analog are more accurate than digital. Especially with cold temps effecting battery outputs. I only use analog in my machine shop, or reloading bench.

 

[Roninco]

I have used a Starrett 798 digital caliper for years with no problems.
Starrett 798 Digital Caliper 6 SS (midwayusa.com)

 

[dragon798]

I messed with cheap calipers for years, and still keep them on my bench for quick measurements. But spend the money and get a set of digital Mitutoyo. They measure to .0005", easily switch between standard and metric, are easy to read and exceedingly accurate. Be sure to by authentic Mitutoyo, many counterfeit brands out there. Amazon carries authentic brand for less than $150 i believe. This is another case of buy once cry once, and you won't regret it. This is in no way intended to disparage Starrett or Brown and Sharp. All quality and all worth the money. If you want to build accurate loads, you need accurate tools.

 

[Will Gray]

Starrett vernier will last for ever. A friend gave it to me: was his grandfather's pattern shop. No dials, no battery, just a vernier scale

 

[Flintlock shooter]

I use and recommend i-gaging.

 

[srogerson]

Also, analog are more accurate than digital. Especially with cold temps effecting battery outputs. I only use analog in my machine shop, or reloading bench.

I think analog are quicker to read as well. I've been using the RCBS calipers that came with my RCBS Pro 2000 20 years ago.

 

[RH300UM]

another vote for Mitiutoyo. I have used them for many years

 

[Sending156s]

Ok what's everybody use for a caliper for reloading? I had a cheap one from Menards and it stopped measuring right. Basically the measurements are in half almost from what they should be. Should I just buy another cheap one or get a Mitutoyo?

Starrett 1st, Mitutoyo 2nd
Hornady is for when quality & accuracy are not your priority

 

[o2bmark]

I use Mitutoyo digital mainly with an analog dial caliper for backup. The digital is especially good since you can zero it on headspace or bullet ogive gauges. Don't drop it though...

 

[drdool]

Mitutoyo digital almost exclusively and Hornady dial if needed as above

 

[ntsqd]

I've been using precision calipers since 1984 or so. IMHO this is a place where you should spend a bit more. I agree with Mr. Holifield, but would add Brown & Sharp in 3rd place and all others as not worth the time or money. I use Mitutoyo's at home.

One caveat though, the Mitutoyo "MyCal" line of calipers are NOT the same as their std products and are barely above the consideration line. If you're wanting something better than what the reload tool mfg's offer, but can't quite swing one of the top 3's regular product then these *might* be worth considering.

Just because the digital's display .0001" does not mean that calipers can actually measure that precise. Consider that 4th digit to only indicate which direction to round off to .001" and nothing more. By using poor technique I can vary the numbers on the display of any of my digital calipers by .005" so how could I possibly think that they're accurate to .0001"?

 

[basinman]

I still have and occasionally use my original RCBS analog caliper that came with a reloading kit about about 35 to 40 years ago. I do also have and use a Hornady that I picked up a few years ago. It does okay.