Edge finder,do you use one?

[Ken from ontario]

I just installed an inexpensive DRO on my mini mill and now am thinking if I get myself a decent edge finder it would go hand in hand with my new DRO , so far none of my projects needed such precision that a tool like an edge/center finder would be handy , I managed to lightly scrape the x or y sides of the workpiece with the end mill to feel the edges and then go from there.
So my question is , whether you find using this tool essential for your type of milling/ precision work , if you do, what make is better ? do you use the electronic type or still use the old style?

 

[Jim T]

I just installed an inexpensive DRO on my mini mill and now am thinking if I get myself a decent edge finder it would go hand in hand with my new DRO , so far none of my projects needed such precision that a tool like an edge/center finder would be handy , I managed to lightly scrape the x or y sides of the workpiece with the end mill to feel the edges and then go from there.
So my question is , whether you find using this tool essential for your type of milling/ precision work , if you do, what make is better ? do you use the electronic type or still use the old style?

I started my machining journey about a year ago. An edge finder was one of the first tools I purchased. I use it all the time............can't imagine having to work without one. Mine is a standard Starret. Works fine. I'm sure other brands do also.

Jim

 

[David S]

For things where accuracy is not critical I will just "touch off" at the edge with the cutter. However for things that require more accuracy, or I don't want to touch the edge I use a Starret combination edge / centre finder. It is mechanical not electronic.

David

 

[Tony Wells]

I use a couple of different mechanical edge finders, as well as a wiggler from time to time. If you are poking holes in a part and you need accurate placement, they are a must, IMO. If you don't want to buy one right away, a poor-man's edge finder can be a good straight 1/2" dowel pin with a light spray of Dykem or even Sharpie on it. But a real edge finder is better. Just always remember to comp for half the diameter. I don't know any machinist that hasn't been bitten by that little gotcha.

 

[talvare]

Just always remember to comp for half the diameter. I don't know any machinist that hasn't been bitten by that little gotcha.

And, the older you get, the more often you get bit

Ted

 

[rgray]

I have a couple of mechanicals and a couple of electronic.
Thought the electronics would be so great , but I always just use one of the mechanicals after the initial playing around with the electronicals I just don't like them as well.

 

[Ken from ontario]

I could be wrong but based on what I read or watch on youtube ,most machinists or hobbyists that use edge finders, don't have good things to say about the electronic type, it seem that the older mechanical version is more favoured.
I just ordered a Fowler (52-575-025) mechanical edge/center finder, I am sure I'll be using it often, it should help speed things up a bit as well as keeping the sides of my project intact.

Thanks for all your comments so far, please keep it coming.

 

[JimDawson]

Sterrett mechanical is my weapon of choice. Accurate and you never have dead batteries.

 

[T Bredehoft]

I'm with Jim (above) on that. I've been using mechanical edge finders since 1972.

 

[stupoty]

Sterrett mechanical is my weapon of choice. Accurate and you never have dead batteries.

I use a Sterrett one, it was fairly cheep and from tests I've done it repeats well.

Stuart