Posts: 3,798
Threads: 184
Joined: Jun 2012
Location: Farmington Hills, Michigan
I have used a 1/2" dowel as Tony suggested, but this one won't mark the part.
Tom
Posts: 200
Threads: 4
Joined: Feb 2012
Location: Tyler, TX USA
I have a couple of 827A's that see regular use (probably my favorites), and a full 0.5000 single end version, as well as a 0.5000 body diameter with a 0.2000 contact cylinder on one end and a point on the other. They all have their places. I don't remember the model numbers, but some are Starrett and one s a Fowler, if memory serves.
The Dykem EF is a Poor Boy's edge finder. If you're careful, and you're supposed to be when edge finding, it won't mark the part beyond a little dye transfer. Plus you can get a 6" long drill rod and reach some awkward places where standard edge finders are difficult or impossible to use.
I've never tried the electronic models with LED's. Seems like a good idea, but I'd have to test it extensively to be satisfied with it, I think.
Posts: 3,003
Threads: 51
Joined: Apr 2012
Location: Ontario
I've had the no name edge finders but bought a Starrett and the repeatability is night and day difference. Looks like the one Tom posted above. There wasn't much of a cost difference either. Tried an electronic one, was good but when the battery died I went back to the mechanical one.
Free advice is worth exactly what you payed for it.
Greg
Posts: 275
Threads: 12
Joined: Mar 2012
Location: Nebraska, USA
Thanks a lot guys. That will get me going in the right direction. Thanks for reminding me on the PeeDee thread wires Ed. I was meaning to get a set of those as well but it got buried on my list.
-Ron
11" South Bend lathe - Wells-Index 860C mill - 16" Queen City Shaper
I use the Starrett shown above for curved edges. On straight edges I have a Moore Edge Finder that I picked up a few years back.
"Billy G"