10 Best Dial Bore Gauge Review in 2021 – New Guide

LAST UPDATED: June 1st, 2022

A cylinder bore gauge is one of the primary tools needed in automotive, manufacturing, and any other working environment where holes, cylinders, and pipes need to be measured.

Having the good dial bore gauge will allow you to accurately measure the dimensions of each cylinder and make the necessary adjustments or repair needed.

However, choosing the best one out of hundreds of models in the market is not an easy task. But with the help of this article, you will have the knowledge of what factors to consider in buying one.

Also, we reviewed the top 10 models that you can get your hands on, so be sure to keep reading!

Best Dial Bore Gauge Review in 2021

Stop worrying about looking at each model of dial bore gauge in the market one by one. You do not need to do that anymore because we hand-picked these 10 models for you.

iGaging Dial Bore Gauge 2″-6″/0.0005″ Deep Engine Cylinder Measurement

Are you looking for a tool that can accurately measure a cylinder’s diameter? Do you feel worried that you can’t use it because of how deep the cylinder is?
If so, you need to check this model out. iGaging has never failed to provide the market with precise measuring tools at an affordable price. Their over 15 years of experience makes them a reliable brand.

Let us talk about its features, shall we? In terms of capacity, this dial bore gauge can measure diameters from 2 inches to 6 inches. On top of that, it can also be used to measure bores up to 10 inches deep.

Not only is it versatile, but it will also impress you with its precision. The model offers graduation of 0.005 inches! This really is a helpful tool if you wish to find the slightest deformity on your cylinders.

What’s more, you will also like the dial since it is very easy to read, thanks to its design. However, we find that the dial does not fit seamlessly with the rest of the gauge.
The kit includes 11 anvils, some spacers, and an extension rod.

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HFS (R) Dial Indicator Bore Gage

If you wish to measure very small cylinders with utmost precision, you need a dedicated dial bore gauge to do so, like this one from HFS. It is designed to measure diameters as little as 0.7 inches to 1.5 inches!

Also, you don’t need to worry if your cylinder is deep because this product can still measure to a depth of 10 inches. You do not need to disassemble or remove certain parts of your engine since this tool can reach those areas that are vulnerable to wear.

Moreover, the kit includes 11 useful anvils that you can use with various sizes of holes. You will be impressed that the measuring plungers come with carbide tips to ensure durability and accuracy for years and years of use.

Speaking of accuracy, this model will not fail your expectations. It offers an accuracy of 0.0005 inches! Plus, the dial features crisp, precision graduations so you can effectively inspect your cylinders. The dial indicator contains jeweled bearings as well.

You will also like that it comes with a very sturdy ABS plastic. Plus, it is nicely padded to really protect your dial bore gauge kit when not in use. On top of that, the model is made from aluminum alloy! That’s a good quality dial bore gauge right there!

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Accusize Industrial Tools 0.7-1.5” by 0.0005” Dial Bore Gauges

This dial bore gauge from Accusize Industrial Tools offers both durability and accuracy, the two major considerations that make a good dial bore gauge. What more does it offer? Let us find out!

In certain workplaces, some cylinders that need to be measured are very narrow. That said, only a small capacity dial bore gauge can do the job. One model that will suit those narrow cylinders is this one.

The product can measure diameters of 0.7 inch to 1.5 inches. Moreover, the stem length is 5 inches, which makes it very compact. You will also like that the product features an insulated grip for more safety.

Accuracy-wise, this model will impress you. The dial offers graduation of .0005”, perfect for inspecting and calibrating your narrow cylinders. What’s more, the gauge is self-centering!
Moreover, the product takes pride in the chrome-plated handle. This will ensure that it will handle all the wear and tear from years and years of use.

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Anytime Tools Dial Bore Gauge Deep Engine Hole Cylinder Measurement Gage

The Anytime Tools dial bore gauge can accurately measure cylinders with diameters from 2 inches to 6 inches, even if they are 10-inch deep! It claims to be a super precision deep measuring bore gauge, and it is true to its promise.

Since it is a deep engine bore gauge, it allows users to quickly measure the out-of-round and tapers of cylinders without having to remove the engine piston. This is a tool that all engine enthusiasts need!

To measure different sizes of cylinders or bores, the kit comes with 11 very convenient anvils. What’s more, these measuring plungers have carbide tips! This means that they have a better abrasion resistance than steel.

Let’s now talk about its accuracy. The model offers 0.0005-inch crisp, precision graduations. Also, the dial indicator contains jeweled bearings for better protection.
Lastly, to protect your dial bore gauge and its accessories, this model comes in a padded ABS plastic case.

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Accusize Industrial Tools Ee20-1406 Dial Bore Gauge Set

We have another Accusize product on our list. This time, it has a wider capacity.
In this particular kit, the manufacturer combined their two most popular dial bore gauges in one set. The kit includes the 2 to 2.4-inch range kit and the 2 to 6-inch range kit.

With the use of this dial bore gauge kit, you can measure diameters as small as 1.4 inches up to 6 inches. This impressive and wide capacity range is made possible by the 15 anvils it comes with.

On top of that, this gauge kit features carbide-tipped contact points that will endure wear tear and will have a better abrasion resistance for years and years of use.

For calibration, this gauge makes it very quick and easy, thanks to the bezel lock that you can use for zero setting. It also comes with self-centering measure heads that will help to get quick and accurate measurements.

You will also like the chrome-plated handle that it comes with. The kit comes in a nice case that holds the bore gauge itself, the anvils, and the rest of the accessories.

iGaging Dial Bore Gauge 0.7″-6″/0.0005″ Deep Engine Hole Cylinder Measurement Gage

What is the top dial bore gauge? A lot of engine enthusiasts may answer you with this product.
If you were impressed by the capacity of the last model, this model would make you feel more fascinated.

Why? Well, it offers a capacity to measure diameters as narrow as .07 inch to as wide as 6 inches! You can use it for the tiniest cylinders and for the standard sized ones.

It does not end there. This kit is a deep engine hole cylinder that can measure holes as deep as 10 inches. How cool is that? You will also like the color on the dial, which makes it easy to read and use.

Moreover, it also offers an impressive accuracy of 0.0005 inches, and the dial offers crisp and very precise graduations. What more can you ask for?

The product comes with a lot of anvils. Plus, the dial indicator contains jewel bearings for added protection. The measuring plungers also come with carbide tips!

Akozon Dial Bore Gauge, 50-160MM Diameter Indicator Measuring Engine Cylinder Tool Kit

Looking for an affordable cylinder dial bore gauge that will do the job? This product might be the answer to your prayers. Among the many measuring tools that Akozon offers, this one, in particular, is for anyone who needs to measure and calibrate cylinders.

As mentioned, this product is affordable but will still impress you with its features and specifications. It comes in a red plastic case that contains its 5 anvils, an extension rod, and of course, the dial bore gauge.

For its price, it’s a nice thing that it still comes in a case. Moreover, you will find that the accessories are enclosed in another smaller box.

The product may not offer a lot of anvils, but in terms of the rest of its features, it will not fail its users. It can measure diameters from 50 to 160 mm or 2 to 6 inches. The accuracy is also impressive, being 0.01mm.

What’s more, the gauge is also durable, as it is made from metal.

Mitutoyo 511-751 Dial Bore Gauge

When it comes to dial bore gauges or any other measuring tools, Mitutoyo has been on top of the game. Since 1934, the brand has been providing the market with top of the line measuring tools that everybody trusts, and this model is no different.

The 511-751 Dial Bore Gauge is designed to measure narrow cylinders. It features a capacity of 0.7-1.4″. Moreover, this product is accurate to + or – 0.0008”.

What’s more, the dial indicator offers graduation of 0.0001″. This is a great tool to accurately measure the ovality and taper of your cylinders.

Moreover, the kit features carbide-tipped contact points that ensure better abrasion resistance and the ability to endure prolonged wear.

You will also like the rugged, padded cover that protects the whole kit. Plus, the item is very lightweight, so you can use it for long hours without straining your hands.

TTC 900-234 2″-6″ .0005″ Grad Dial Bore Gage Set

We have tackled a number of deep engine hole cylinder bore gauges in this review, but none of the prior ones can compete with this one. Why? Well, it can measure cylinders as deep as 20 inches! How cool is that?

This is such a useful tool for inspecting your deep cylinder’s taper or ovality without needing to disassemble the engine or anything that is installed inside. It saves a lot of time, and not to mention it is very easy to use.

For the capacity, it can measure diameters from 2 inches to 6 inches. To get those very precise measurements, the dial features a graduation of .0005″. On top of that, the kit comes with 10 useful anvils that you can use for various cylinder sizes. Not only that, but the anvils have carbide tips!

This ensures the durability of the anvils, which is important since they are the parts that come in contact with the cylinders. The kit also comes in a nice padded case.

Fowler 52-646-400-0 BORE GAGE Set 1.4-6IN 9IN

The Fowler 52-646-400-0 can measure diameters of shallow to deep engine holes or any other cylinders.

It offers a capacity of 1.4″ to 6″. On top of that, the kit can be used to measure holes as deep as 9.5 inches! It’s the perfect tool for any engine repairing shop!

The kit offers 15 anvils, each one having a carbide tip. That’s real value for money right there.
For ease of use and accuracy, the model’s easy to read dial offers graduation of .0005″ or .01mm. There is no doubt that you can accurately inspect your deep cylinders with this kit.

For more safety, the gauge comes with an insulated grip. Plus, the handle is also chrome-plated! It makes it more durable and sleeker-looking at the same time.
The kit comes in a nice case where each accessory has its own label. Plus, it also comes with a 2″ contact extension.

What to Look for Before Buying?

You might think that dial bore gauges are the same. Well, essentially, they work using the same principles, but they are not equal, performance-wise.

Without any idea of what makes a specific model of dial bore gauge better than another, you might fail with your purchase and end up with something you can’t use.

That is why we created this buying guide. Here, we listed the factors that you should consider before making your purchase.

Capacity

One of the major features that differentiate one dial bore gauge to the next is capacity. So, ask yourself where you intend to use the bore dial gauge and what length do you need. Some gauges have a capacity of as little as 0.7 inches while others have as long as 10 inches.

Also, check the included anvils in the set. To make your dial bore gauge more useful, you need a few anvils that will allow you to measure different sizes of cylinders.

Durability

When you buy any product, you want it to last long. In terms of dial bore gauges, you need it to be made from sturdy and heavy-duty materials—not just the dial gauge itself but also the anvils and other accessories.

When you buy any product, you want it to last long. In terms of dial bore gauges, you need it to be made from sturdy and heavy-duty materials—not just the dial gauge itself but also the anvils and other accessories.

Accuracy

In any measuring tool, accuracy is key. To be able to measure the slightest difference in your holes, you need a very accurate dial bore gauge.

Case

To keep your dial bore gauge and its accessories together, your kit should come protected in a case. Some cases have padding for more protection, while others do not.

Check also the material that’s used to make the storage case. Is it sturdy or not? Remember that the purpose of the case is to also protect your kit, so it should be durable.

Also, try and check if the accessories have their own label, especially the anvils since they have different sizes.

Price

It may be true that a good and accurate measuring equipment is not cheap. Instead of choosing a cheap one that is flimsy and will render false measurements, it is better to spend more on a good quality model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the most commonly asked queries regarding dial bore gauges:

Are dial bore gauges expensive?

It depends on how you define what is expensive. While the dial bore gauges rarely come in cheap price tags, it does not mean that you cannot find one that is affordable and will still work well.

What size of dial bore gauge do I need?

The capacity that you need depends on where you intend to use it. For example, if your engine has a cylinder bore diameter of 3.779 to 3.78 inches, you should choose a dial bore gauge and an anvil close to that measurement.

What about digital bore gauges? Are dial gauges better than them?

There are plenty of digital bore gauges in the market that you can check out. One advantage of a dial bore gauge is that they do not need any battery or power source to work.

What’s a famous brand of dial bore gauge?

Mitutoyo is a famous brand when it comes to measuring tools, and they also make dial bore gauges like the 511-751 Dial Bore Gauge.

What can I use to calibrate my dial bore gauge?

You can use a micrometer, setting ring, or caliper.

Final Words

Of all the models we reviewed, which one do you think is the dial bore gauge for you? Go ahead and make your purchase now and experience how a dial bore gauge can make your work a lot easier.