I'm quite proud of the one set of parallels, and the one micrometer, and the one dial gauge.
Expensive precision equipment is mighty nice stuff to try and buy cheap at the swap meet, or yard sales
I'm quite proud of the one set of parallels, and the one micrometer, and the one dial gauge.
Expensive precision equipment is mighty nice stuff to try and buy cheap at the swap meet, or yard sales
I've found that now that the world has gone digital, I've been able to pick up good quality (Moore & Wright, Starrett, Mitutoyo) vernier mics, depth gauges etc., for a song in excellent condition. I could never justify new prices for the occasional use I give them, but they're 100% functional and accurate; you just need to be able to read a vernier scale. Having said that, my digital calipers are my go-to measuring device.
ReplyDeletelucky to find that level of quality for good prices!
DeleteI think that the last generation of working machinists has retired, and or passed away, and all their tools are hitting the market. Also that CNC robots are taking the lion share of the work, all factors that are contributing to the increased number at lowered prices.
At the last couple of swap meets I've been to, there were entire tool chests from machinists for sale
Fully agree about retiring engineers; at one time the tools would have been passed on or sold to juniors on their way up.
DeleteWhen I first rented my workshop it contained the equipment of a self-employed engineer who had recently died. Included was a massive LeBlond lathe of about 20" swing. Not sure how old it was but I suspect it came over in the hold of a liberty ship. Sadly it was in terrible condition and way too big for my needs so it had to go.