Stainless Steel Dial Calipers — Precision 0–6" Measuring Tool for Reloading, Gunsmithing & Shop Work
Model: 516503 • UPC: 661120440642
Measure once, cut—or load—right. The Stainless Steel Dial Calipers (516503) deliver fast, repeatable 0–6 inch measurements with a smooth analog dial that’s easy to read at the bench, on the range, or in the shop. Built from hardened stainless steel with precision-ground jaws, these dial calipers give reloaders, gunsmiths, machinists, and DIY enthusiasts a rugged, battery-free measuring tool for everyday work: checking case length, cartridge overall length (COAL), bullet diameter, primer pocket depth, and countless general shop dimensions.
Why These Stainless Steel Dial Calipers Belong on Your Bench
Analog Accuracy You Can Trust: Crisp, high-contrast dial readout removes the guesswork—ideal under bright shop lighting or in low-light garages where LCDs can wash out.
0–6" Range, 0.001" Resolution: Read inside, outside, depth, and step measurements with reliable 0.001-inch resolution to keep tolerances tight.
Hardened Stainless Construction: Precision-ground jaws and a rigid beam resist flex, wear, and corrosion—perfect for solvent-heavy reloading rooms and busy workshops.
Battery-Free Reliability: No batteries to die mid-project; dial calipers are ready whenever you are.
Smooth Thumb Roller & Lock Screw: Micro-control your travel for delicate parts, then lock the slide to hold a reading or make comparative checks.
Shop-to-Field Versatility: From COAL checks and neck OD on brass to verifying shim stacks, trigger shoes, or dovetail widths, these calipers do it all.
Reloading & Firearms Tasks Made Easy
Cartridge Overall Length (COAL): Seat bullets precisely to your target jump.
Case Length & Trim Verification: Confirm trim-to specs before chamfer/deburr.
Bullet & Neck Diameters: Track tension and concentricity improvements across lots.
Primer Pocket/Anvil Checks: Use depth rod to gauge uniformity and cleanliness.
Component Fitment: Measure rails, scope base steps, recoil lug thickness, pins, and springs for clean installs.
Tip: Pair these calipers with a case length gauge and a bullet comparator to build a complete precision-measuring workflow.
Features & Specifications (At a Glance)
Measurement Range: 0–6 inches (0–150 mm)
Resolution / Graduations: 0.001 in (0.02 mm)
Functions: Inside, outside, depth, and step measurements
Construction: Hardened stainless steel beam and jaws
Dial: High-contrast analog dial with fine index pointer
Controls: Thumb roller for smooth travel, lock screw to hold settings
Zeroing: Bezel rotates to set zero at any position for comparative measurements
Model / SKU: 516503
UPC: 661120440642
Note: As with all precision tools, verify zero before use and avoid drops to maintain factory accuracy.
How to Use (Quick Start)
Zero the Dial: Close the jaws gently; rotate the bezel to align the needle with “0”.
Measure Outside Dimensions: Use the main jaws for case length, COAL, or part OD.
Measure Inside Dimensions: Use the small upper jaws for neck ID, bushing ID, or slots.
Depth Measurements: Extend the depth rod for primer pockets, recesses, or counterbores.
Step Measurements: Use the back shoulder to measure offsets and step heights.
Lock & Record: Tighten the lock screw to hold a reading while you log or adjust tools.
Care & Calibration Tips
Keep It Clean: Wipe jaws before measurements to prevent grit-induced error.
Protect the Rack: Avoid slamming the slider shut; use the thumb roller for smooth motion.
Light Oil Film: Apply a light rust inhibitor on the beam if stored in humid areas.
Case Lube Discipline: Degrease calipers after sizing sessions—solvents and lube can attract debris.
Check Against Standards: Periodically verify with gauge blocks or a mic-checked test piece.
Who It’s For
Reloaders & Precision Shooters: Maintain repeatable ammunition geometry for tighter ES/SD and better downrange results.
Gunsmiths & Armorers: Confirm fitment and tolerance stacks on slides, frames, rails, and optics hardware.
Machinists & Fabricators: Trusted shop companion where quick, accurate checks matter.
DIY Tinkerers: From 3D-print checks to woodworking joinery, these calipers earn their keep daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dial calipers as accurate as digital?
Quality dial calipers provide excellent accuracy and repeatability for most bench tasks—without batteries. For ultra-fine work, micrometers may be preferred.
Can I measure metric as well as inches?
Yes—many dial faces include metric sub-grads or you can read the mm scale on the beam up to 150 mm.
Will solvents damage the dial?
Use mild cleaners on the dial and bezel. Keep harsh solvents on a cloth and away from the dial mechanism.
How do I avoid parallax errors?
Read the needle straight-on, and lock the slide for stability when recording measurements.
SEO Highlights (Naturally Integrated)
Stainless steel dial calipers 516503, UPC 661120440642, 0–6" analog calipers with 0.001" resolution, inside/outside/depth/step measurement, reloading calipers for COAL and case length, gunsmithing, machining, shop measuring tool, hardened stainless beam, thumb roller, lock screw.
Measure with Confidence
From case prep to custom parts fitting, the Stainless Steel Dial Calipers (516503) give you dependable, battery-free precision in a durable package that’s right at home on any bench.
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