14 best ball micrometers
Ball micrometers, also known as ball anvil micrometers or ball-end micrometers, are precision measurement instruments used in dimensional metrology and quality control processes. They are a specialized type of outside micrometer designed for measuring the roundness or sphericity of objects, including spheres, cylinders, and other curved surfaces. Here are some key points about ball micrometers:
Purpose: The primary purpose of a ball micrometer is to measure the diameter or dimensions of spherical or cylindrical objects accurately. It is particularly useful for measuring the roundness or out-of-roundness of objects.
Design: A ball micrometer consists of a traditional micrometer frame with a spherical anvil (ball-shaped) on one end and a spindle (measuring face) on the other. The ball anvil is often made of hardened steel or carbide to ensure durability and precision.
Measurement Technique: To measure an object with a ball micrometer, the user places the spherical anvil against the object's surface and gently closes the micrometer by rotating the thimble. The micrometer provides a measurement reading indicating the diameter or size of the object at the point of contact with the ball anvil.
Applications: Ball micrometers are commonly used in industries where accurate measurement of spherical or cylindrical objects is critical. This includes applications in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and metrology laboratories. They are particularly valuable for quality control and inspection processes.
Accuracy: Ball micrometers are known for their high accuracy and precision, often capable of measuring to within micrometers (millionths of a meter) or even nanometers (billionths of a meter). The accuracy depends on the quality of the instrument and the skill of the operator.
Calibration: Like all precision measuring instruments, ball micrometers require periodic calibration to ensure their accuracy. Calibration involves comparing the micrometer's measurements to a known standard to verify its correctness.
Maintenance: Proper maintenance is essential to keep ball micrometers in good working condition. This includes keeping the measuring surfaces clean, protecting them from damage, and storing the instrument in a suitable environment to prevent temperature and humidity fluctuations.
Types: Ball micrometers come in various sizes and designs to accommodate different measurement needs.Some may have digital readouts for ease of measurement reading, while others rely on vernier scales.
In summary, ball micrometers are specialized outside micrometers used for accurately measuring the diameter or dimensions of spherical or cylindrical objects. They are widely used in precision industries for quality control and metrology applications, offering high accuracy and reliability in measuring roundness and dimensions. Proper maintenance and calibration are essential to ensure the continued accuracy of these instruments.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best ball micrometers on the marketProduct description
Super high precision tool
Our vernier Ball/Tube Micrometer is used for measuring thickness of pipes and tubes.
Great tool for gunsmiths and reloaders wanting to measure the thickness of their brass quickly and precisely.
Features:
- Clear graduations on satin chrome finish
- Carbide spindle tip
- Ratchet Stop
- Measure case neck thickness and uniformity
- Accuracy: 0.0001" Range: 0-1"
- Clear graduations on satin chrome finish
- Carbide spindle tip
- Ratchet Stop
- Measure case neck thickness and uniformity
- Accuracy: 0.0001" Range: 0-1"
User questions & answers
Question: | How well does this compare with the build quality of mitutoyo or even the rcbs ball micrometer |
Answer: | I don't know. Suggest that you ask the vendor. |
Question: | Where is this made |
Answer: | Unknown |
Question: | What is the diameter of the ball anvil on this micrometer |
Answer: | It can be used on water line except for potable (drinking) water since 2014 Safe drinking water act. Do proper research before buying. |
Question: | Is the accuracy really 0.0001"? OR, is that just the smallest graduation |
Answer: | Yes |
Product description
Professional Tool, SUPER Precision.
Measure case neck thickness and uniformity
Great tool for gunsmiths and reloaders wanting to measure the thickness of their brass quickly and precisely.
Our digital Ball/Tube Micrometer is used for measuring thickness of pipes and tubes.
Features:
- 2 measuring modes Metric/Standard
- Large LCD Display
- Absolute & Incremental Modes
- Automatic Switch Off
- Accuracy +/- 0.00016"
- Range 0-1"/0-25mm
- Resolution 0.00005"/0.001mm
- Ratchet Stop
- 2 measuring modes Metric/Standard. Large LCD Display. Automatic Switch Off
- Carbide spindle tip
- Ratchet Stop
- Measure case neck thickness and uniformity
- Accuracy +/- 0.00016" Range: 0-1"
User questions & answers
Question: | What is the USB port on the top for |
Answer: | The diameter is .189". |
Question: | will this work with 17 caliber brass |
Answer: | MIcrometer is graduated to 0.0001". I checked with gage blocks, readings are about +/- 0.0001". The post anvil can flex with too much torque on the spindle, easily changing the reading by 0.0002" so you have to develop a feel for tightening. I always use the ratchet and tighten to 2-3 clicks. If using the spindle barrel to tighten, you can distort the anvil/frame by a few tenths, but this is elastic, not permanent. Also keep in mind that the roughness of finish on the measured tube often limits the precision of measurement. It is not common to find tubing that has a ground finish on the inside. For most drawn tubing this micrometer is very good. Graduations are a little faint and hard to read in non-ideal lighting. I also tune up these lower end mics--tighten the spindle nut to remove any play in the spindle, and rotate the graduated sleeve so that the .025" are aligned with the spindle position. |
Question: | Is the anvil small enough to fit in a .223/5.56 case neck |
Answer: | No, it is nut only. |
Question: | What is the anvil diameter |
Answer: | Per description: These fittings contain lead and are not allowed by federal law to be installed for potable water use in the U.S.A. and its territories. |
Product description
Mitutoyo Spherical Anvil Tube Micrometer, Range: 0 - 1", Graduations: .0001", Thimble: Ratchet, Standard: No, Comment: .185" diameter spherical anvil.
- Carbide spindle
- Clear graduations on satin chrome finish
- Hammertone baked enamel finish
- Ratchet Stop
- Supplied in fitted plastic case
User questions & answers
Question: | Could you please tell my in which country are this micrometrs manufactured. Are this items orignial Mitutoyo's |
Answer: | Yes it wi fit in a 223 case. |
Question: | I know this micrometer is for measuring wall thickness, but can I measure the outside diameter of a tube |
Answer: | Anvil =.1895" |
Question: | What is the diameter of the anvil |
Answer: | I compared readings with my Mitutoyo and readings were identical. It is not the quality of more expensive brands but accurate enough for my needs. |
Question: | micrometer goes withthe set of tips |
Answer: | I checked the micrometer and the box and I could not find anything stating where it was made. I looked on the Anytime Tools website and they say that most of their tools are made in the USA. That is all the information I have. |
Product description
Professional Tool, SUPER Precision.
Measure case neck thickness and uniformity
Great tool for gunsmiths and reloaders wanting to measure the thickness of their brass quickly and precisely.
Our digital Ball/Tube Micrometer is used for measuring thickness of pipes and tubes.
Features:
- 2 measuring modes Metric/Standard
- Large LCD Display
- Absolute & Incremental Modes
- Automatic Switch Off
- Accuracy +/- 0.00016"
- Range 0-1"/0-25mm
- Resolution 0.00005"/0.001mm
- Ratchet Stop
- 2 measuring modes Metric/Standard. Extra Large LCD Display.
- Carbide spindle tip
- Ratchet Stop
- Measure case neck thickness and uniformity
- Accuracy +/- 0.00016" Range: 0-1"
Product description
Economical vernier ball micrometer for measuring case neck thicknesses. All metal body and thimble with matte finish. Range: 0-1-inch. Accuracy within .0001-Inch. Ratchet stop on thimble assures uniform application of pressure. Thimble lock keeps thimble from turning when measuring a constant. Adjustment wrench included. Fitted plastic storage case.
- Used to measure the neck thickness of cases
- Vernier ball micrometer
- Ally metals body and thimble with matt finish
- RCBS is the leading manufacturer of ammunition reloading equipment for rifles and pistols
- Precision crafted
- Engineered for durability and longevity
User questions & answers
Question: | Who makes this for rcbs and in what country is it made |
Answer: | The thimble barrel diameter is .250. The diameter of the sphere is .185. |
Question: | What is the range of measurements |
Answer: | Not sure what tips you are asking about. The micrometer works perfect for measuring case neck thickness. |
Question: | Does this come with a spanner wrench |
Answer: | I don't know. This thing died before I could find out, and I ended up buying a Starrett instead. I think the port is for connecting to a laptop so you can track measurements on numerous parts. That is how the Starrett data port works. |
Question: | is the ball small enough to fit inside a .223 case neck |
Answer: | I don’t believe so. The neck on the .17 may be too small |
Product features
Over 75 Years of Reloading history
RCBS is a leading U.S. manufacturer of precision reloading equipment. Ever since 1943, when Fred T Huntington founded the company in the back of his father’s Oroville, California, laundry and dry-cleaning plant, the company and its employees have gone to extreme lengths to provide customers the highest-quality reloading tools and accessories.
Everything you need to Reload
RCBS offers precision engineered reloading products. Our most iconic being the Rock Chucker Press.
We pride ourselves in building the highest quality products that last for decades of reloading.
We offer a full line of single stage and progressive presses, as well as dies, powder dispensers, and everything you need to create your perfect reloading bench.
Quality Built in the USA
RCBS is proud that its products are made in the USA by Americans.
Our most popular items include our Chargemaster Combo and Chargemaster Lite powder dispensers and our Rock Chucker Press and Rock Chucker Kits.
If you're new to reloading, consider one of the many RCBS Kits to get you started. From there you can add Case Prep products and upgrade individual products to speed up the process or hone the accuracy of your special load.
Product description
With a ball anvil and chamfered spindle, the Vernier ball micrometer ideal for accurately measuring case neck thicknesses within an accuracy of 0.0001 inch. With a ball anvil and chamfered spindle, the Vernier ball micrometer ideal for accurately measuring case neck thicknesses within an accuracy of 0.0001 inch. With a ball anvil and chamfered spindle, the Vernier ball micrometer ideal for accurately measuring case neck thicknesses within an accuracy of 0.0001 inch. With a ball anvil and chamfered spindle, the Vernier ball micrometer ideal for accurately measuring case neck thicknesses within an accuracy of 0.0001 inch. With a ball anvil and chamfered spindle, the Vernier ball micrometer ideal for accurately measuring case neck thicknesses within an accuracy of 0.0001 inch.
- Ideal for accurately measuring case neck thicknesses
- Measure from 0-1" With accuracy within 0.0001"
- Ratchet stop ensures uniform pressure for measurement repeatability
- Spindle lock preserves measurement when removing cartridge case from micrometer
- Baked-enamel finish on c-frame provides durability
Product description
Product description
The Fowler 54-860 Series digital outside micrometer has a ball anvil and ball spindle, a choice of measuring range, and an LCD with an inch/metric switchable resolution for measuring the inside diameter of sleeves, collars, tubing, and other curved and cylindrical surfaces. The ball anvil contacts the inside curve at a single point, providing accurate measurements. Carbide measuring faces provide wear resistance. A switchable resolution of 0.00005" and 0.001mm, and an accuracy of 0.00016"/0.004mm provide precise readings and accurate measurements. A ratchet thimble provides smooth and repetitive operations, and is suitable for one-handed use. Ratchet-style thimbles stop turning when the spindle comes into contact with the work piece, providing constant force for consistent measurements between operators. The insulated steel housing provides durability and is ingress protection (IP) certified IP54 for protection against dust and water. The micrometer can be set to take absolute or incremental measurements. Absolute measurements provide the total dimension of the work piece. Incremental measurements provide a reading that shows the difference between a set standard and work piece being measured. This Type of reading is often used to determine If a work piece falls within tolerance levels. Rs-232 output transfers data to a computer (cable not included). the micrometer requires a CR 2032 battery (included), and includes a fitted case. Micrometers 2" and above include a standard. Comes with full one year warranty on material and workmanship. Contact Fowler directly for warranty claims. Fowler high precision, an American company, manufactures inspection and measurement instruments such as electronic indicators, calipers, bore gages, and digital scales. The company, founded in 1946, is headquartered in Newton, MA.
- Digital outside micrometer with ball-style anvil/spindle with 0-1 inch
- Lcd performs direct inch/metric conversions and has a switchable resolution of 0.00005 inch
- Ratchet thimble provides smooth and repetitive operation, and is suitable for one-handed use
- Ip54 for dust and water protection, outdoor conditions-232 output provides ability to export readings to a computer (cable not included)
- Full 1 year warranty on material and workmanship offered by Fowler, an american company
Product description
- Tube Micrometer
- Range: 0-1"
- Anvil Diameter: .19"
- Graduation: .0001"
- Accuracy: .00024"/0.006mm
- Advanced spindle design in hardened and precision ground lead screw threads give reliable and accurate reading
- Case Included
- Case Overall Dimension: 6-1/4''L x 3''W x 1-1/8''H
- Micrometer Weight: 6 ounce
- Shipping Weight: 11 ounce
- Tube Micrometer
- Range: 0-1"; Anvil Diameter: .19"; Graduation: .0001"; Accuracy: .00024"/0.006mm
- Advanced spindle design in hardened and precision ground lead screw threads give reliable and accurate reading
- Case Included; Case Overall Dimension: 6-1/4''L x 3''W x 1-1/8''H
- Micrometer Weight: 6 ounce; Shipping Weight: 11 ounce
User questions & answers
Question: | Does this micrometer have ratchet stop |
Answer: | yes you can, using a micrometer is about touch,and this one has just that,just remember a light touch is needed,i am a machinist and i use ball micrometers for all the time to measure both outside and inside,i find them more accurate ,but that is just me. |
Product description
The Fowler 54-860 Series digital outside micrometer has a ball anvil and flat spindle, a choice of measuring range, and an LCD with an inch/metric switchable resolution for measuring the inside diameter of sleeves, collars, tubing, and other curved and cylindrical surfaces. The ball anvil contacts the inside curve at a single point, providing accurate measurements. Carbide measuring faces provide wear resistance. A switchable resolution of 0.00005" and 0.001mm, and an accuracy of 0.00016"/0.004mm provide precise readings and accurate measurements. A ratchet thimble provides smooth and repetitive operations, and is suitable for one-handed use. Ratchet-style thimbles stop turning when the spindle comes into contact with the work piece, providing constant force for consistent measurements between operators. The insulated steel housing provides durability and is ingress protection (IP) certified IP54 for protection against dust and water. The micrometer can be set to take absolute or incremental measurements. Absolute measurements provide the total dimension of the work piece. Incremental measurements provide a reading that shows the difference between a set standard and work piece being measured. This Type of reading is often used to determine If a work piece falls within tolerance levels. Rs-232 output transfers data to a computer (cable not included). the micrometer requires a CR 2032 battery (included), and includes a fitted case. Micrometers 2" and above include a standard. Comes with full one year warranty on material and workmanship. Contact Fowler directly for warranty claims. Fowler high precision, an American company, manufactures inspection and measurement instruments such as electronic indicators, calipers, bore gages, and digital scales. The company, founded in 1946, is headquartered in Newton, MA.
- Digital outside micrometer with ball anvil and flat spindle with 0-1 inch
- Lcd performs direct inch/metric conversions and has a switchable resolution of 0.00005 inch
- Ratchet thimble provides smooth and repetitive operation, and is suitable for one-handed use
- Ip54 for dust and water protection, outdoor conditions-232 output provides ability to export readings to a computer (cable not included)
- Full 1 year warranty on material and workmanship offered by Fowler, an american company
Product description
Professional Quality Precision Measuring Tool
Measure dimensions from inside of holes to outside edges. The spherical anvil or spindle contacts the inside curved surface at a single point, permitting accurate gaging of wall thickness to 0.0001".
The back side of the anvil stem of the Ball-Anvil Tube Micrometers is cut away, making it slim enough to insert into small parts such as sleeves, collars, tubing and other cylindrical workpieces to measure wall thickness.
Features:
- Ball on both anvils.
- Microfine graduations on satin chrome.
- Anvil and spindle hardened and ground; spindle thread hardened, ground and lapped.
- A wrench is included for quick and easy zero adjustment on sleeve.
- Ratchet stop thimble for exact readings.
- Accuracy: 0.0001".
- Meets or exceeds Federal accuracy specs.
- Includes fitted case.
- Professional Quality Precision Measuring Tool. Accuracy: 0.0001".
- Microfine graduations on satin chrome.
- Anvil and spindle hardened and ground with Carbide Tips; spindle thread hardened.
- A wrench is included for quick and easy zero adjustment on sleeve.
- Ratchet stop thimble for exact readings. Includes fitted case.
User questions & answers
Question: | What is the minimum inside diameter of tubing that can be measured |
Answer: | 0 to 1 inch |
Question: | Any notion where this is manufactured? I've been burned recently by a Taiwanese micrometer |
Answer: | Yes and has a green case to keep it in, I love it |
Question: | Hello - can you tell me how large this will measure? i just don't see it! lol is it 0-1" or 1-2"? i'm actually looking for 1-2" ball mic i'm in ct |
Answer: | This works great for measuring .223 brass. I just used it the other day to measure the neck thickness on some .223 Lapua brass to determine the correct die bushing for a neck sizer die. Smooth, accurate and sensitive. |
Question: | Can you tell me, does this measure only in inches or does it do metric as well |
Answer: | These Mitutoyo gages were made in Japan. |
Product description
Starrett outside micrometers and micrometer heads having spindle can be instantly converted for measuring wall thickness of tubing, split and full bearings, sleeves and other parts with rounded surfaces of the ball attachment.
- Easily applied by snapping on to end of either anvil or spindle, thus permitting two attachments to be used together
- Balls are hardened, measure 0.200" in diameter, and move freely in the retainer, insuring positive contact with anvil and spindle
- The diameters, 0.200" of each ball used must be subtracted from the micrometer reading
- Applied for Nos. 216, 231, 436.1, 733, 734, 1212 and 1230 micrometers, 0.250" diameter anvil and spindle
Product description
Professional tool, Super precision measure dimensions from inside of holes to outside edges. The spherical anvil or spindle contacts the inside curved surface at a single point, permitting accurate gaging of wall thickness to 0.00016". crisp, clear, easy-to-read LCD display, accurate to 0.00016". hardened and ground spindle with Carbide anvil ensure durability and accuracy. Comes in a case with adjustment wrench, instructions booklet, ball attachment and extra battery. Features: ball on both anvils. 2 measuring modes metric/standard large LCD display absolute & incremental modes automatic switch off accuracy +/- 0.00016 inch range 0-1"/0-25MM resolution 0.00005"/0.001mm direct USB SPC output available meet or exceeds Federal accuracy standards.
- Ball on both anvils.
- Range: 0-1", Accuracy +/- 0.00016"
- 2 measuring modes Metric/Standard
- Absolute & Incremental Modes
- Direct USB SPC Output available. Search Amazon for item B00IO0EH16
User questions & answers
Question: | Is this tool good for engine rebuilding? Such as checking crankshaft journals etc? Would you use the ball for measuring rounded parts like the crank |
Answer: | This micrometer will measure 0-1". |
Question: | Would tool be suitable to measure the thickness of plastic film? The plastic is approximately5.5 millimeters thick |
Answer: | This micrometer measures in inches only. |
Question: | What is the diameter of the shaft? I want to use this for measuring valve shims, they' sit on top of the valve stim |
Answer: | Yes |
Question: | What is the purpose of the ball? Why would you use it or not |
Answer: | Made in China. It zeroes good. And is .001 off on a 1.00 Starrett standard. |
Product description
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