outside caliper

measurement device

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Last updated

July 1, 2026

Quick Summary

An outside caliper is a measurement device used to determine the external dimensions of an object. It is a type of caliper, which is a tool with two adjustable legs or jaws designed for measuring material parts.12

There are different types of calipers, including spring calipers, which use a screw and nut for adjustment, and firm-joint calipers, held by friction. Outside calipers specifically measure thicknesses and outside diameters. To use them, an operator adjusts the caliper to the desired measurement against a ruler or gauge, relying on their sense of touch for accuracy.2

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caliper
Outside calipers measure thicknesses and outside diameters of objects; inside calipers measure hole diameters and distances between surfaces. To check the dimensions of a machined part, the calipers are first adjusted to the required dimension on a ruler or a standard plug or hole gauge;…
Read More
Outside calipers measure thicknesses and outside diameters of objects; inside calipers measure hole diameters and distances between surfaces. To check the dimensions of a machined part, the calipers are first adjusted to the required dimension on a ruler or a standard plug or hole gauge;…
Read More