Finding the best dial indicator holder suitable for your needs isnt easy. With hundreds of choices can distract you. Knowing whats bad and whats good can be something of a minefield. In this article, weve done the hard work for you.
Reviews
1. Anytime Tools Test Indicator Flexible Holder 3D for Mill Center Positioner
Feature
Used for centering of workpieces on a milling machine3 Dimensional Holder for Test Indicator
Unique Central Locking Knob secures both arms and holder
Holds indicator with 3/8" stem or dovetail.
Each arm length: 2.1"
Description
Precision Tool Holder from Anytime Tools
Used for centering of workpieces on a milling machine
Features:
- 3 Dimensional Holder for Test Indicator
- Unique Central Locking Knob secures both arms and holder
- Holds indicator with 3/8" stem or dovetail.
2. Starrett PT22428 Swivel Post Snug with Dovetail Indicator Clamp for Test Indicators
Feature
Swivel post snug with dovetail clamp for use with Starrett 708, 709, and 811 series dovetail mount dial test indicators (not included)Fits 3/32 to 1/4" diameter spindles and posts
Knurled thumb screw provides secure grip when making adjustments
Also compatible with Starrett 252 series height transfer gauge, 657 series magnetic base holders, and the 1/4" rod of the PT22430 snug and rod unit (not included)
Description
The Starrett PT22428 swivel post snug with dovetail clamp Is designed for use with Starrett 708, 709, and 811 series dovetail mount dial test indicators (not included). The snug fits 3/32 to 1/4" diameter spindles and posts. The knurled thumb screw provides a secure grip when making adjustments. The snug is also compatible with Starrett 252 series height transfer gauge, 657 series magnetic base holders, and the 1/4" rod of the PT22430 snug and rod unit (not included).
Test indicator gauges, also called gages, are precision instruments that measure short linear distances. They are commonly used for detecting deviations from tolerance limits, such as small variations in flatness or height of an inspected workpiece, and permit measurement in narrow grooves or small bores. A test indicator gauge consists of a ball-tipped contact point on a levered arm, also called a measuring insert, which pivots from a hinge point. The reading indicates the degree of angular displacement of the arm. Test indicator gauges are commonly used in manufacturing, machining, and mechanical engineering. Standard test indicators measure the displacement of the arm perpendicular to the axis of the indicator. Dial and electronic indicators are very similar to test indicators, except that the axis of measurement is parallel to the axis of the indicator. Test indicators can be analog, with a mechanical dial, or electronic, with a digital display. Some electronic models transfer the data electronically to a computer for recording and potential manipulation.
The L.S. Starrett Company manufactures precision measuring tools, metrology and testing equipment, and saw blade products. The company, founded in 1880, is headquartered in Athol, MA.
3. NOGA Dial Gage Holder Magnetic Base - Model: DG61003 AUTO POWER: On/off mag.base HOLDING POWER: 176 Ibs Regular Duty
Feature
Easy to set up gages into required position.Fine adjustment universal swivel clamp.
Holds 3/8", 6mm, 8mm and dovetail. Powerful 176 lbs. on/off magnetic base.
3 dimensional dial gauge holder has unique central locking mechanism
Bottom arm length: 4.33". Top arm length: 3.98"
Description
The articulated arm of the Noga magnetic base is capable of reaching every possible position - even upside down. It is an auxiliary tool for any general measurement and helps to increase precision and working efficiency. Noga magnetic bases are capable of a 360 rotation and offer considerable versatility. These magnetic bases also come with fine adjustments that make them well equipped for fine operations.4. Anytime Tools Test Dial Indicator 0.0005" 0-15-0 and Universal Holder Quill Clamp For Bridgeport Mill Machine Clamping Diameter 1-7/8"
Feature
Test Indicator 0.0005" 0-15-0 includedClamping Diameter 1-7/8" . Length from clamping bracket to indicator 4-1/2"
Reach from 0-12" diameter
Suitable for all indicators with DOVETAIL or 5/32" shank (stud)
Adapts immediately for positive and fast indicating
Description
High Quality Professional Grade Tool
This is the best companion for your BRIDGEPORT. Mounts with single pressure screw directly on machine quill, bypassing the working tool. Standard 1-7/8" clamping diameter.
Test Indicator Features:
- Easy to read 1-3/16" white face with crisp black markings
- 7 JEWELS bearings
- Durable satin chrome finish
- Carbide probe
- Graduations: 0.0005'' per line
Universal Holder Features:
- ALL METAL construction (washers are nylon)
- Clamping Diameter 1-7/8"
- Length from clamping bracket to indicator 4-1/2"
- Reach from 0-12" diameter
- Suitable for all indicators with 5/32" shank (stud)
- Adapts immediately for positive and fast indicating
- Mounts with single pressure screw directly on machine quill, bypassing the working tool
- Frame is designed with bearing pads properly spaced and an opposite pressure screw securing the rigidity of the mounting
- The desired stiffness is adjustable and is not altered by the pivoting of the joints
- Padded case included!
5. Brown & Sharpe TESA 74.106931 Swivel Holder for Dial Test Indicator, 0.375" Stem
Feature
Axial support for mounting Brown & Sharpe Bestest series dial test indicators (sold separately) on a dovetail or a rodHinges allow the indicator to swivel for accurate positioning
Measures 5-1/4" long and the support mounting stem is 3/8"
Description
The Brown & Sharpe TESA 74.106931 swivel holder provides axial support for mounting Brown & Sharpe Bestest series dial test indicators (sold separately) on a dovetail mount or a rod. Hinges allow the indicator to swivel for accurate positioning. It measures 5-1/4" long, and the support mounting stem is 3/8".
Dial indicators are also called dial gauges, probe, and electronic indicators. These precision instruments measure small linear distances and object sizes. The dial magnifies the measurement so that it can be easily read by the human eye. Frequently used in manufacturing, laboratories, and other industrial or mechanical fields, dial indicators are used anywhere a small measurement must be found and recorded or transferred, such as checking the variation in tolerance of a workpiece. Standard dial indicators measure the displacement along the axis of the indicator. Dial test indicators are very similar to dial indicators, except that the axis of measurement is perpendicular to the axis of the indicator. Dial and dial test indicators can be analog, with a mechanical dial, or electronic, with a digital display. Some electronic models transfer the data electronically to a computer for recording and potential manipulation.
Brown & Sharpe manufactures precision measuring equipment and metrology hand tools. The company, founded in 1833, is headquartered in North Kingstown, RI.
6. INSIZE 6296-2 Dial Test Indicator Holder
Feature
Supplied with fixing spannerLength: 5.354 inch
Stem hole diameter: 5/32 inch
Description
Dial Test indicator holder.7. Mighty Mag Magnetic Base
Feature
Solid Magnetic BaseMade in USA
Description
Solid 45 lb. Magnet (always on). 1" x 1 1/4" x 4 1/2". Mounts in 6 positions. Made in USA.8. HFS HFS Axial Axis Holder Indicator Dial Digital Dovetail Aarm
Feature
3/8" diameter body for secure clamping5-1/2" overall reach, 3 Pivot Joints
1 dovetail fits all indicators
1/8 diameter hole at an angle, 1/8 hole inside dovetail
1/4 hole
Description
Used for mounting indicators with dovetail or rods mounting. 3 Pivot joints enable to adjust to desirable position9. Trlen Precision TEST DIAL INDICATOR 7 JEWELS .0005" 0-15-0
Feature
Easy to read 1-3/16'' white face with black markings7 JEWELS
Crisp graduations 0.0005'' per line
Durable satin chrome finish
Includes a padded case
Description
Professional Precision Tool!
Easy-to-read 1-3/16" diameter face, 0.0005" graduation, 5/32" and 3/8" diameter posts with dovetail clamp, and automatic reversing. Meets federal specifications for accuracy. Has .030 travel and a hair trigger response to the lightest pressure.
Features:
- Easy to read 1-3/16'' white face with black markings
- 7 JEWELS
- Crisp graduations
- Durable satin chrome finish
- Graduations: 0.0005'' per line
- Includes a padded case
10. Anytime Tools Uni Holder Quill Clamp For Test Dial Indicator Bridgeport Mill Machine Clamping Diameter 1-7/8"
Feature
ALL METAL construction (washers are nylon)Clamping Diameter 1-7/8" . Length from clamping bracket to indicator 4-1/2"
Reach from 0-12" diameter
Suitable for all indicators with DOVETAIL or 5/32" shank (stud)
Adapts immediately for positive and fast indicating
Description
High Quality Professional Grade Tool
This is the best companion for your BRIDGEPORT. Mounts with single pressure screw directly on machine quill, bypassing the working tool. Standard 1-7/8" clamping diameter.
Features:
- ALL METAL construction (washers are nylon)
- Clamping Diameter 1-7/8"
- Length from clamping bracket to indicator 4-1/2"
- Reach from 0-12" diameter
- Suitable for all indicators with 5/32" shank (stud)
- Adapts immediately for positive and fast indicating
- Mounts with single pressure screw directly on machine quill, bypassing the working tool
- Frame is designed with bearing pads properly spaced and an opposite pressure screw securing the rigidity of the mounting
- The desired stiffness is adjustable and is not altered by the pivoting of the joints
- Padded case included!
11. HFS (Tm) Magnetic Base Adjustable Metal Test Indicator Holder Digital Level 14" - Tool Stand
Feature
Total Height: Approx. 360cm / 14.1 inchPermanent magnet operation with ON/OFF control
Clamping Hole Diameter: Approx. 8mm
lexible, strong, and precise rotary joints,can adjust any direction and location
With high stability, it will be your ideal tool in the measurement of precision work-piece field.
Description
A magnetic stand that uses a switchable permanent magnet for convenient mounting onto metal surfaces. The arm can be locked in any position using the tightening knob. Useful for holding dial indicators or test indicators during alignment operations.Permanent magnet operation with ON/OFF control
V-grooved base for secure mounting on cylindrical surfaces
Ideal for holding lever indicators at any orientation on a machine tool for alignment operations
Flexible, strong, and precise rotary joints,can adjust any direction and location
Powerful magnetic base, with on/off switch for magnet
With high stability, it will be your ideal tool in the measurement of precision work-piece field.
Base Size(L x W x H): Approx. 62 x 60 x 50mm / 2.4 x 2.3 x 1.9 inch
Total Height: Approx. 360cm / 14.1 inch
Clamping Hole Diameter: Approx. 8mm
12. HFS (R) Magnetic Base Adjustable Metal Test Indicator Holder Level Stand 14"L 3/8" Clamp
Feature
A magnetic stand that uses a switchable permanent magnet for convenient mounting onto metal surfaces.The arm can be locked in any position using the tightening knob. Useful for holding dial indicators or test indicators during alignment operations.
Permanent magnet operation with ON/OFF control V-grooved base for secure mounting on cylindrical surfaces
Ideal for holding lever indicators at any orientation on a machine tool for alignment operations
Flexible, strong, and precise rotary joints,can adjust any direction and location
Description
THE LARGE STAND, OVERALL HEIGHT IS 14 INCHESPowerful magnetic base, with on/off switch for magnet
With high stability, it will be your ideal tool in the measurement of precision work-piece field.
Base Size(L x W x H): Approx. 60 x 55 x 50mm / 2.3 x 2.2 x 1.9 inch
Total Height: Approx. 360cm / 14.1 inch
Clamping Hole Diameter: Approx. 3/8"
13. All Industrial 52502 | Pro-Shop Magnetic Base for Dial and Test Indicators
Feature
Our Part # ALL-52502Magnetic pull: 176 lbs.
Fine adjustment and chrome plated rod and column
Base dimensionsions: 2 x 2-1/2 x 2-1/4" Accepts all AGD type dial indicators and test indicators
Description
Magnetic Base Heavy Duty Fine Adjustment 176 lbs. Indicator Holder14. Black Dial Test Indicator Holder Bridgeport Mill MIlling Machine
Feature
Dial test indicator holder mill machineClamping diameter: 1-7/8"
Length from clamping bracket to indicator: 4-1/2"
Reach: 0-12" Diameter
Quantity: 1 ; Weight: 7 oz *estimate only*
