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Measure Small Gaps Easily With The Best Feeler Gauges

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Last Updated: May 3, 2024, 1:36 p.m.

When you’re trying to measure tiny gaps or need precise measurements for your project, standard tools just won’t cut it. You’ll need to grab a feeler gauge to take your required readings without messing up your assignment! A feeler gauge is a portable instrument used to measure the distance between two items near in proximity. They are used in place of calipers and tape measures because they fit in narrow spaces and provide accurate measurements. Due to this feature, mechanical engineers prefer to have a feeler gauge in their toolbox. Choosing the ideal feeler gauge, on the other hand, can be pretty challenging. Therefore, to make your decision easier, we have compiled a list of the premium feeler gauges in 2023 that you can buy.

Buyer’s Guide: Finding Your Premium Feeler Gauge

It is critical to have a feeler gauge that provides precise measurements. However, choosing a reliable device can be difficult with so many options available. Therefore, we've put together a thorough guide to help you select the perfect feeler gauge for your needs.

What Features Should I Look For?

Blade material

Carbon blades are most commonly used in feeler gauges, but substitute materials such as brass, stainless steel, and plastic blades are also offered. Stainless steel feeler gauges can withstand high temperatures, whereas brass feeler gauges do not cause a spark, which is useful in applications where explosive elements may present. Brass also does not rust and is non-magnetic, which are desired qualities when measuring gaps in electronics. Blades made of manganese steel are long-lasting; they will withstand constant impact but will not break. Stainless steel is the preferred material for blades as it can withstand high temperatures and impact.

Blade length

The length of the blade is essential for measuring the gap. The typical length of the blade that measures accurately is roughly between 3 and 5 inches. However, a 10-inch or 12-inch blade is recommended when measuring long distances.

Number of bladed

Since each blade has a more precise measurement, a feeler gauge with a high number of blades is essential for an accurate measurement. More blades equal more lengths, allowing you to measure the distance accurately and saving you the trouble of purchasing additional equipment to measure varied distances.

Common Types of Feeler Gauges

Wire-type feeler gauge

The wire feeler gauge differs from other gauges as it features a series of stiff metal wires rather than metal leaves or blades. These gauges are commonly used to measure spark plug gaps; hence they may also be known as spark plug gap gauges. If you want to measure spark plugs, you should purchase a wire typer feeler gauge!

Blade feeler gauge

These are the most commonly used and readily accessible feeler gauges. They are generally made up of a series of flat metal blades known as leaves that fold in and out of a main casing or sheath. If a leaf or blade breaks or wears out, it can be easily replaced with another with the same thickness.

Plastic feeler gauge

Unlike standard feeler gauges, a plastic feeler gauge has blades made of plastic rather than metal. They do not ignite because they are non-conductive and non-corrosive. In addition, they do not harm whatever you are attempting to measure. Plastic versions are usually color-coded to help distinguish between different shim thicknesses.

Difference Between Metric and Imperial Feeler Gauges

The metric and imperial systems are the two most common units of measurement. Metric feeler gauges describe the width of each blade in millimeters. Imperial feeler gauge sets measure in hundredths or thousandths of an inch. The metric gauges are more commonly used in most countries, whereas imperial feeler gauges are primarily used in the USA.

Top Picks

Best Overall: Hotop Feeler Gauge
Most Portable: Spurtar Feeler Gauge
Most Versatile: Zuzan Feeler Gauge
Easiest To Use: Handook Feeler Gauge
Highest Quality: Sata Feeler Gauge

Reviews

Best Overall

Hotop Feeler Gauge

Pros	Cons
Non-corrosive and spark-less Can measure a variety of distances Foldable and will not rust	The blades can get oily due to anti-rust oil

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Most Portable

Spurtar Feeler Gauge

Pros	Cons
Economical and high-quality material Measures a variety of lengths Portable and easy to store Rust-free and easy to use	Vaseline makes the blades slippery

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Most Versatile

Zuzan Feeler Gauge

Pros	Cons
Two gauges and a variety of lengths Blades can be adjusted and are secured High quality and feature double marking	The error rate is high

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Easiest to Use

Handook Feeler Gauge

Pros	Cons
Rust-proof and durable Different units of measurement for ease Detachable and secured blades	The small size may not be ideal for some use cases

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Highest Quality

Sata Feeler Gauge

Pros	Cons
Different bundles of lengths Rust-free and easy to carry Foldable and small-sized	The rust-free oil can make the gauge hard to use

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FAQs

Is a steel feeler gauge better than the plastic one?

Plastic blades are prone to breakage, which is why steel feeler gauges are considered better.

How to read a feeler gauge accurately?

To determine the gap size, read the measurement given on the gauge.

What is the difference between feeler and thickness gauges?

There is no difference between both of these gauges. Feeler gauges are also known as thickness gauges since they measure the distance and thickness between two items.

What is the accuracy of a feeler gauge?

It depends upon the manufacturer of the gauge; however, on average, the accuracy is ± 00035.