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Tom Thumb (caliper jaw width)
Posted: Fri Dec 27, 2024 4:38 pm
by fclassNrugby
Tom Thumb,
OK finally, I looked high and low but could not find these at affordable prices so I made them.
Bit more expensive than I had hoped but here is a quality aluminum and brass caliper/vernier precision jaw widener.
50 units only for sale @ $28 each delivered Auz wide via Australia post or bulk lots of 5+ (via club orders) $22 each pickup at Belmont shooting range.
Precision hand loaders who want consistent/repeatable seating depth measurements using a broad base.
PM me for any more info/details.
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Re: Tom Thumb (caliper jaw width)
Posted: Sat Dec 28, 2024 2:02 pm
by GuyLuke
I made a set of these the other day as well. Did you consider drilling out a clearance for the primer? I know 99% of the time the primer will be inset but I've found the occasional one not to fully seat and give false OAL reading. Just a thought.
Re: Tom Thumb (caliper jaw width)
Posted: Sat Dec 28, 2024 7:39 pm
by fclassNrugby
Hi Guy, nice idea but no, might consider a small recess in the future if people like the product. I wanted a flat base with very low tolerance, so that it can be used as a wider jaw for general purpose use as well. e.g. when measuring and batching individual projectile sizes from base to o'give. Also adding 2 (top and bottom) gives a great overall length when checking brass only. Checking the length of the full rim without having to rotate the brass or guess work, and Yes, i am a bit anal with preparations but want a tool that gives me the confidence with these types of measurements. When measuring in Thousands of an inch i don't like the caliper jaw guess work. It felt like i was measuring with really good tools but still estimating my measurements. May as well just buy a cheap set of calipers from Temu if we cannot use our good tools effectively. Send pics of your tool.
Re: Tom Thumb (caliper jaw width)
Posted: Sun Dec 29, 2024 10:12 pm
by GuyLuke
Mine are a bit rough and ready but perfectly functional. I cut a chamfer in the lower shell holder for primer clearance. I'm only loading 6.5mm so only need the single ogive comparator. Also working on a arbour press for trying difference seating depths at the range.
Re: Tom Thumb (caliper jaw width)
Posted: Mon Dec 30, 2024 5:30 am
by fclassNrugby
Nice work, I was thinking of using the old hand drill/ Drill press modified for an arbour seating press. You can pick them up new for $30. They are light enough to take to the range.