Micrometer- What to look for when buying?

[mdi]

One hint; until you get the "feel" of a mic. use the ratchet/friction thimble (little thingy on the end of the thimble) to get consistent measurements (as my mentor said "it anin't no c-clamp, take it easy!"). I used the same micrometer 0-1" Starrett for many years as a machinist, and with just a bit of practice, .0001" measurements are easy...

[cwheel]

Hi Jon,
As a after thought, after you get a 1-2" mic, if you decide you need bigger, might want to look at ebay again for a good used Starrett #224 in the 2-6" range for use with your lathe. If you watch the auctions, you will see them often sell used between $30-50 for the full set in a box with all 4 standards and wrenches. This micrometer is good for home use by someone who doesn't use this stuff every day but gives you a full range up to 6" if you have the 0-1 and 1-2 separate already. Ebay will also be selling these new in the box in the $450 range, new in the box just isn't needed for home use.
Chris

[Chuck_ls]

And make sure the micrometer is adjusted to read correctly. A 0'-1" is easy as you can clean the anvil faces, close it down and make sure it read 0.000- There is a little spanner that comes with most micrometers that is used to adjust the reading if it is off. On larger mics you need a calibrated standard to set the zero. They are available at most tool dealers like MSC.

Chuck