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...

6 inch Automotive Dial Vernier Caliper. Product Category: Hardware > Automotive 6 inch Automotive Dial Vernier Caliper. Product Category: Hardware > Automotive
Sale Price: $27.13

6 inch Automotive Dial Vernier Caliper. This quality designed caliper quickly and accurately measures up to 6 inches. Rolling thumb adjustment knob allows for precise, one-handed operation.   Features: Measures up to 6 inches Easy to read dial Thumb roll for accurate readings Quick, accurate measurements Light weight

Dial Carbon Caliper, Minimum Scale to Read is 0.1mm (Plastic) Dial Carbon Caliper, Minimum Scale to Read is 0.1mm (Plastic)
Sale Price: $13.85