Micrometers

Micrometers are precision measuring tools used to check external dimensions, internal bore diameters, depths, and hard-to-reach features on workpieces. Common commercial uses include machining, inspection, quality work, layout, and dimensional checks in shop environments.

Product Display:
Helpful Buying Guide

How to Choose a Micrometer

Start with the feature or dimension you need to measure, then match the tool’s measuring range, contact design, readout format, and working-environment features to the task. The available tools include outside micrometers, three-point internal micrometers, depth micrometers and gages, specialty digital models, a stand, and a tapeless measuring gauge for layout work.

Visual Guide

Popular examples in this category

Micrometer Stand for Up to 4 in. MicrometersMicrometer Stand for Up to 4 in. MicrometersWBB925084Outside Micrometer, 7–8 in. RangeOutside Micrometer, 7–8 in. RangeWBB9250710–1 in. Mechanical Outside Micrometer with Ratchet Thimble0–1 in. Mechanical Outside Micrometer with Ratchet ThimbleWBB228423Electronic Depth Micrometer, 0–6 in. / 150 mmElectronic Depth Micrometer, 0–6 in. / 150 mmWBB345373
Use Cases

Match the tool to the measurement

Use outside micrometers for external workpiece dimensions, three-point internal models for bore diameters, and depth micrometers or depth gages for holes and recesses. A reduced-face digital micrometer is intended for recesses, keyways, and spline shafts.

How to Choose

Confirm range, resolution, and readout

Choose a range that covers the dimension to be checked, from small 0–1 inch outside measurements to 5–6 inch internal bores or 0–12 inch depth work. Compare listed resolutions and select mechanical, digital, or electronic viewing based on the job.

Applications

Support shop, inspection, and layout tasks

These tools are represented for machinists, inspectors, quality teams, trade professionals, and shop users. Applications include checking thicknesses, outside diameters, bore diameters, blind holes, recessed features, and layouts.

Additional Information

Consider practical operating features

Relevant features include carbide contact surfaces, ratchet controls, locking nuts, rotating LCD displays, protective ratings, data output, included cases, setting standards, and specialized bases or contact points.

0–144 in.Longest listed range

The tapeless measuring gauge measures distances up to 12 feet.

0.00005 in.Fine listed resolution

This resolution is listed on selected digital depth, internal, and specialty micrometers.

3-pointInternal contact design

Selected pistol-grip tools use three-point contact for bore measurement.

IP65Listed protection level

Selected digital micrometers include IP65 protection.

Comparison Guide

Compare Micrometer Types

Use the measurement feature and range as the primary comparison, then review display, contact, and workflow features.

Tool typeMeasurement task and listed rangeRelevant listed features
Outside micrometerExternal dimensions; listed ranges include 0–1 in., 1–2 in., and 7–8 in.Mechanical or digital formats; carbide faces or tips; selected models include ratchet controls, cases, setting standards, IP65 protection, or data output.
Three-point internal micrometerInternal bore diameters; listed ranges include 0.236–0.315 in. and 5–6 in.Pistol-grip format, three-point contact, rotating LCD displays, carbide contact points, and blind-hole measurement features on selected models.
Depth micrometer or depth gageDepths of holes, recesses, and similar features; listed ranges include 0–6 in. and 0–12 in.Digital or electronic reading, reference bases, locking spindles, inch/mm viewing, and included pointed or ball tips on selected models.
Planning Guide

Plan the right fit before choosing

1. Identify the dimension

Choose outside, internal, depth, or layout measurement

The first selection point is the feature being measured. Outside micrometers are for external dimensions such as thicknesses and outside diameters. Three-point internal micrometers are for bore diameters, including models with blind-hole contact points. Depth tools measure holes, recesses, and related features, while the tapeless gauge measures distances and marks layouts.

  • Outside options cover listed ranges of 0–1 inch, 1–2 inches, and 7–8 inches.
  • Internal bore options cover 0.236–0.315 inch and 5–6 inch ranges.
  • Depth options are listed in 0–6 inch and 0–12 inch ranges.
  • The tapeless measuring gauge covers 0–144 inches for measurement and marking.
2. Compare measurement controls and visibility

Select the readout and handling features that fit the work

Mechanical outside micrometers offer fine readings with features such as ratchet thimbles and locking nuts. Digital and electronic tools provide LCD or digital displays, with selected models offering rotating displays, inch/mm selection, or large LCD viewing. Several options use carbide measuring surfaces or contact points.

  • Listed fine resolutions include 0.0001 inch, 0.00005 inch, and 0.0005 inch, depending on the tool.
  • Ratchet thimbles, ratchet stops, and quick drives with ratchets help apply consistent measuring force.
  • Locking spindle nuts and locking nuts help hold a set position.
  • One digital model has 3 mm measuring faces for confined points.
3. Review data, protection, and storage needs

Add features appropriate to the measurement workflow

For measurement recording, selected digital tools provide SPC output, wireless data transmission, or micro USB data output. Protection ratings vary among listed tools, including IP54 and IP65 options. Some outside micrometers include fitted cases and setting standards, and a stand supports compatible micrometers up to 4 inches.

  • IP65 protection is listed on selected digital outside and internal micrometers.
  • An IP54 digital micrometer is listed with a large LCD and SPC data output port.
  • Setting standards and fitted storage cases are included with selected outside micrometers.
  • The micrometer stand supports compatible micrometers up to 4 inches or 100 mm.
FAQ

Common questions before buying

What is an outside micrometer used for?

Outside micrometers measure external workpiece dimensions, including thicknesses and outside diameters.

Which tools measure bore diameters?

Three-point internal micrometers measure internal bore diameters. Listed options include 0.236–0.315 inch and 5–6 inch ranges.

Can these tools measure depths?

Yes. The listed electronic depth micrometer and electronic depth gage are designed for holes, recesses, and other depth measurements.

What data-output options are represented?

Selected digital models offer wireless data transmission, an SPC data output port, or micro USB data output.

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