Pin Gauges

[seasoldier85]

I'm looking for a set of gauges to check the throats on several revolvers. I'm no machinist and got a bit dizzy looking on line at the options. I found a set that appeared to be what I'm looking for, but I'd like some input before I make the purchase. Any help is much appreciated!

 

[Alk8944]

Instead of plug gauges simply slug the throats and measure the slugs directly with a micrometer. Save you a bunch of money!

 

[seasoldier85]

But not a bunch of time. Besides, who doesn't like to buy new tools?

 

[Protocall_Design]

You can get a set of .251 - .500 pin gages, or gage pins for around $140 on Amazon or other tool suppliers. These are from China, but are quite accurate enough for the purpose. This is the preferred machinist way to quickly and precisely measure many types of holes.

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[BrBa]

Aren't there some sets that are '+' sized and some that are '-' sized, sort of like go vs. no-go gauges?

 

[Frailer]

Gauge pins are generally the best way to measure holes, but there are other options, depending on your specific situation.

A set of small hole gauges would be an inexpensive option, but the level of accuracy depends on the skill of the user. Gauge pins are very accurate and require little skill, but they are significantly more expensive.

If you are measuring for a single caliber and are checking to see if the revolvers’ throats are above or below a specific diameter a single rod turned to diameter might suffice.

 

[seasoldier85]

The set I found is .251-.500 for about $150. I have several revolvers of various calibers that I plan on casting for, so a set of gauges seemed like a good idea. Besides, there's still plenty of room in the vault, so I'm sure there will be future acquisitions

 

[stu1ritter]

You can buy Vermont pin gauges individually by size and just the sizes you need on Amazon. Amazon.com will get you the + gauges and Amazon.com will get you the - gauges. I usually use the - gauges.
The run around $5 each, more or less.

Stu

 

[rockquarry]

Instead of plug gauges simply slug the throats and measure the slugs directly with a micrometer. Save you a bunch of money!

Best advice.

 

[-BTM-]

You can buy individual pin gauges from McMaster-Carr as well.

 

[trulyapostolic]

Different brands of bullets vary by a few tenths up to .001". Get a variety of bullets and see which one passes through the throat and what doesn't.

 

[steelslaver]

Depends on how much you plan to use them. I have a set that goes from .010 to .025 and another that goes from there to .500. I use mine a lot.

 

[470Evans]

I bought this set on Amazon and have used them a lot, for $136 I'd buy them again.

HFS(R) Steel Pin Gage Set Minus M2 with Plastic Case for Carpenters and Home Improvement 0.251-0.500" 250pcs

 

[Jaco1234]

There are also taper gauges. Like a shotgun choke gauge.