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Top precision tools for master manual machinists
10
items This is a list by a master manual machinist, for any manual machinist that wants to up the quality of the machining work that they do.
As a machinist, accurate measurements are the most important part of making quality products. I have more measuring tools than all of my other tools combined! And I have a 4000 square foot shop!
Mitutoyo: Micrometers
These are so much fun to use! These are used for precision repairs on large diameter holes for large machinery. Most commonly used to repair King pin shafts and piston rod mounts on excavators and bulldozers.
Portable Line Borers - STANDARD Machine Tools
Having earthquakes here in Alaska, i have to check level on all of my mills and lathes before i use them. Assuring the machine is level is the very first step in setting up any metalworking machine. This can only be done with precision grade levels.
Machinists Levels - Starrett
Dial indicators are used in so many different ways to set up parts, align tools and parts, check runout, verify straightness of shafts, and more. Personally, I have about 30 varieties of indicators that are all used frequently.
Mitutoyo 513-452T Dial Test Indicator Set
I use calipers hunders of times a day. I prefer the dial style versus the digital. I guess that makes me old school, but that's how I was taught almost 30 years ago. Fowler is one of the top brands in the industry.
Calipers by Fowler High Precision
I use bore gages to get accurate measurements when I am rebuilding gas and diesel motors, inspecting flame paths inside of explosion proof pumps and when doing bored sleeve repairs on heavy machinery. When the accuracy needs to be ridiculous, the pri...
Bore Gages - Starrett
I really like using these carbide inserts for cutting hard steel and stainless steel parts. They provide clean cuts and are very precise.
Groove Milling Milling Tip Insert: 1025, Solid Carbide
Carbide burrs help remove small amounts of material. I use these every day and I can be super creative with making patterns and details.
Carbide Burr Bits
Radius gages are so handy for measuring sizes of radii. Without these, some measurements are just a guessing game. These are a must for your toolbox.
SD167FHZ Radius Gage Set Decimal-Inch - Starrett
Before you can start cutting into hardened metals, you need one of these to determine the correct grade of cutter to use. I personally prefer the style with the dial on it. I guess that makes me old school...or just old...
Benchtop Hardness Testers - Starrett