Mic standard

[dave b]

Where can I get a standard to check my 0-1" mic? I would like to know it is right on to a gnat's behind. Also cheap is good.

 

[enfield]

Gauge blocks aren't cheap.

 

[Black_Talon]

Check MSC. They sell individual gauge blocks of various grades so that you don't have to pay top dollar for accuracy you really don't need.

Industrial Supply Equipment from MSC Industrial Supply

 

[Alk8944]

Check it closed for a start. Then go to your local tool or industrial supplier and ask them for a piece of 1/2" drill rod and mic. it. 1/2" drill rod will measure .500 or within .0002 or less. If you can read a .001 micrometer closer than that you are better than most, especially of your micrometer doesn't have a friction thimble. If it is on at .000 and .500 it will be on at 1.000 too. They may have a piece of 1" for you to measure, but over .625 can be harder to find.

 

[Skip Sackett]

When they are set up they are adjusted closed. You can use a drill from any set to check at various intervals. Like stated above, drill rod is another option.

Harbor Freight is an option too. They have all kinds of stuff. It's "hong kong fooey" for the most part but you did stipulate cheap!

I have a set, 0-4" micrometers that I got in a wooden box, a long time ago. It came with standards. 1", 2", 4".

Hope this helps.

p.s. MSC will have exactly what you need too.

 

[Nygma]

Where can I get a standard to check my 0-1" mic? I would like to know it is right on to a gnat's behind. Also cheap is good.

For a 1" mic I wouldn't spend the money. If it reads zero in the closed position then it's adjusted well enough. If you plan on buying more mics in the future, the 1-2" mic will likely come with a 1" standard.

Bullets from the major manufacturers are most always within a couple of tenths of the size stated on the box. You can do a cursory midrange check this way.

I don't want to sound contrary here but drill rod may not be your best cheap way to check a mic, it is sold in the unhardened state and easily bent, dinged and nicked. A drill blank is a much better choice, it is sold in the hardened state.

Used standards and gage blocks should be readily available at any used tool store and most hock shops. Mics, indicators, and gage blocks are the amongst the items commonly pilfered from machining company tool cribs.

 

[TACC1]

A quick check on e-bay shows "gauge block" as being available.
Just glanced, and saw two. One by Lufkin, and one by Starrett.
TACC1

 

[Nygma]

A quick check on e-bay shows "gauge block" as being available.
Just glanced, and saw two. One by Lufkin, and one by Starrett.
TACC1

I'm guessing that you will be able to buy a decent used 1-2" mic with a 1" standard on eBay for what you will pay for a single gage block.