A digital caliper is better than a 3D printed one. The one I have (here's a link (price is $16)) goes down to something even more precise than my printer (P1S) and software (Fusion) can do. I think it is great. I mainly use the digital caliper when I want to create a 3D model of an existing object (so I can later print a copy of that object). I also used the calipers to check the dimensions of some 8 mm x 3 mm magnets I bought after they weren't lining up with my 3D prints. ProTip: always measure magnets because an entire package of 8 mm x "3 mm" can actually be 8 mm x 2.73 mm. Digital caliper has my vote, but you'll need other stuff to get to a birthday present level of spending.
I bought these off Amazon. Not saying they’re good but they meet my homeowner needs just fine: https://a.co/d/08u8Hvkd They’re solid metal and come with 2 sets of replacement batteries. Paid $16. I’ve had zero issues so far, but that means nothing since I don’t use them professionally.
As others have said, it's time to dive into the world of CAD. I like and use OnShape, a browser-based CAD modeler, which is free if your models are public-access (which mine always are, but I get that'd be a nonstarter for some people). Autodesk Fusion (previously Fusion 360) is also free for personal use excepting some features for serious CAD work that you likely won't need. You'll probably want to get a digital caliper; I have this one and it's served me well over the years: https://www.amazon.com/Measuring-Stainless-Micrometer-Fraction-Household/dp/B08Y8M54M9/ You'll also want to print yourself a fillet gauge for measuring, well, fillets (rounded corners, as seen in your photo). I printed this one, https://www.printables.com/model/147450-fillet-gauge-hollow-or-multi-material, and it's fine. I imagine you might want to look at other fillet gauges on Printables or wherever if you need to get into a tight corner or otherwise don't have clearance for that fairly wide gauge.
Since I’ve had multiple people ask about the caliper I used to measure my bracelet, here’s the 🔗 to it on Amazon: https://a.co/d/00JFPumc One thing to note is as with all measuring tools, there’s always a chance you may see slight deviations anywhere between 0.01-0.03 Tip for Accuracy: Make sure to always start with the caliper tightly closed Tare to zero Wait a couple seconds for it to calibrate before measuring
Yeap, here’s the one I have: https://a.co/d/00JFPumc As with all measuring instruments and general wear over time there’s always the possibility of a slight deviation — one way to help mitigate some of it is always to have it closed somewhat tightly at the start, then tare it to 0.00 and give it a couple seconds to calibrate before you try to measure anything. Hope that helps!
Sure! Here’s the Amazon link: https://a.co/d/00JFPumc
