In this video the presenter demonstrates how to read a dial caliper. Early on, he talks about the calibrations going to 100th of an inch. I'm not sure if he is incorrect or if the dial caliper shown here is not as precise as a machinist's tool. Metalworking calipers are generally calibrated to 1000th of an inch. This sort of precision makes the caliper a useful alternative to a micrometer - except in cases where measurements need to be finer than 1000th of an inch .. or where plus or minus 1 thou in accuracy will make a critical difference.


How to Read a Dial Caliper -- powered by eHow.com

Amazon has has many great deals on brand new dial calipers these days. They range from ridiculously cheap (and probably not so good) to serious metalworking tools. Take a look at these .. and click on any that interest you for more information:

Caliper,Dial,Metric Caliper,Dial,Metric
List Price: $91.00
Sale Price: $102.33

Caliper,Dial,MetricPrecision plastic calipers with Metric and English scales with 0.1mm and .001“ subdivisions. Use the thumb roller for precise measurements. Parallel jaws are 40mm (1 ½ “ ) deepNon scratching, non-conductive and corrosion resistant• Inside and outside jaws and round plastic rod depth gauge allow most measurementsDescription: B...

Avid Single Digit 5 Bicycle Linear Pull Brake (Black, Front or Rear) Avid Single Digit 5 Bicycle Linear Pull Brake (Black, Front or Rear)
List Price: $22.00
Sale Price: $13.84

The Avid Single Digit 5 Linear Pull Brake features Force Vector Alignment.All brakes include noodle and OvercoatAll brakes have oversized linear spring with screw-type spring adjusterForce Vector Alignment reduces brake boss play to improve performace, efficency, and controlItem SpecificationsColorBlackWeight210gMaterialAluminumBrake Usage F/RFront,RearPad20RHub/Brake CompatibilityRim BrakeBrake TypeLinear PullBrake Lever ActuationLong PullDefined ColorBlack