10 Best Digital Calipers for Reloading Review in 2023

In reloading, you are in full control of how your ammo equipment will be. What’s more, you are sure to get the exact measurements that you want. Let’s admit, even those products that claim to have ‘precise’ measurements may fail to deliver. Plus, doing this will save you a lot of money in the long run.

As exciting as it sounds, you need to invest in a few gadgets for you to reload your ammunition successfully. One of which is a digital or dial caliper.

In this article, we have reviewed the calipers for reloading. We also included a buying guide to help you in choosing the perfect model for you.

Reloading Calipers Comparison

Last update on 2024-03-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Calipers for Reloading Review

With all the calipers available in the market, it might be overwhelming to choose which model will work. We selected these products for you and listed their pros and cons.

1. Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Advanced Onsite Sensor (AOS) Absolute Scale Digital Caliper

Mitutoyo Advanced Onsite Sensor (AOS) Absolute Scale Digital Caliper

This model will impress you with its accuracy. In reloading, you want your caliper to measure as accurate as 0.02 millimeters, but this caliper goes beyond that. It can measure materials from 0 to 6 inches, incrementing it to 0.0005 inches or 0.01 mm!

On the other hand, the advanced onsite sensor technology will make sure that no dirt or grease will affect the model’s accuracy. Say goodbye to false readings!

In terms of the battery’s life span, it claims to last for at least 3 and a half years. This is a decent life span, although the SR44SW battery, unfortunately, is not readily available in the market.

The digital LCD screen is very easy to read. You just need to press the on and off button if you want to use it and press the zero button if you want to zero it out—no calibration needed. All in all, we can say that this unit is one of the best digital calipers for reloading.

https://youtu.be/NJk4wTfP44Y

PROS

  • Superb level of accuracy
  • Very easy to use and zero out, just press the necessary buttons and you’re good to go
  • Measures inside, outside, depth, and step values
  • Waterproof

CONS

  • Does not offer an automatic on and off function

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2. EA Gems Stainless Steel Electronic Digital Caliper

Digital Caliper, Durable Stainless Steel Electronic Measuring Tool by EAGems; Get IP54 Protection...

Are you a reloading enthusiast who’s tired of using dial calipers? Why don’t you give this product a try?
The price of this model will not break the bank. Plus, the stainless-steel body is made to last you for decades of use. It will also give you a better grip. What’s more, this product is IP54 water resistant!

In terms of accuracy, this product will not fail any ammo enthusiasts out there. The measurements are generated electronically, and they are in increments of 0.01mm—perfect for reloading!

The on/off switch on the model helps save its battery life. If you need to measure in inches, you just need to press the button—no need to use your calculator or phone to convert.

Since it’s made from thick steel, expect that this will weigh a little bit more than your usual calipers. But still, it is one of the greats for reloading.

PROS

  • Accuracy level is perfect for reloading
  • Very simple and easy to use
  • Battery lasts long, and the on and off switch helps to save battery life
  • Waterproof

CONS

  • The weight is heavier than most calipers

3. VINCA DCLA-1205 Quality Electronic Digital Vernier Caliper

VINCA Digital Caliper, DCLA-1205 0-12 Inch/300mm, Inch/Millimeter/Fraction Conversion, Stainless...

Who does not want higher quality at a lower price? This is what Vinca claims to offer with its DCLA-1205 digital caliper.
In reloading, we need to use other measurements, not just in mm. This model comes with inch, mm, and fraction conversion! What more can you ask for? It is perfect to be used by professionals and reloading experts.

Looking at the model, you won’t believe that it comes at an affordable price. It is made from stainless steel and is finely polished. Plus, the dioptometer’s groove is very smooth to glide.

For accuracy, this product can measure in increments of 0.04mm. Well, we have to admit, this is not the ideal for reloading, but it still depends on the reloader’s expertise. To each their own, right? It comes with a massive measuring range of 12 inches. The extra-large LCD will let you know the measurement in an instant.

PROS

  • Can measure up to 12 inches of material
  • Incredibly simple and easy to use plus it has a large display
  • The price is very affordable considering it is made from polished steel
  • Comes with an extra battery

CONS

  • Does not offer the ideal accuracy for reloading

Related Review: The Bore Gauge buying guide.

4. Mitutoyo 500-197-30 Advanced Onsite Sensor (AOS) Absolute Scale Digital Caliper

Mitutoyo 500-197-30 Advanced Onsite Sensor (AOS) Absolute Scale Digital Caliper, 0 to 8'/0 to 200mm...

This model takes pride in its versatility, but it is not the only thing we liked about it. For starters, the product measures depth, inside and outside length, and step values. You can surely use this caliper for a lot of activities.

Its accuracy is also impressive. The unit can measure in increments of 0.0005 inches or 0.01 mm—the perfect accuracy you need for reloading. Also, the large digital LCD screen will let you know the measurements instantly.

We also loved how easy it is to use this product. It comes equipped with an on and off button, zero out button, and a button to convert from inches to mm. What’s more, the slider is ergonomically designed and will fit your thumbs just right.

The product is enclosed in a beautiful protective case and comes with an extra SR44 silver oxide battery.

PROS

  • Impressive accuracy, perfect for reloading purposes
  • The price is reasonable
  • Comes with extra battery and a protective case
  • Very versatile product, can measure depth and step value

CONS

  • Does not come equipped with an automatic on/off function

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5. iGaging ABSOLUTE ORIGIN 0-6″ Digital Electronic Caliper

iGaging Absolute Origin 0-6' Digital Electronic Caliper - IP54 Protection/Extreme Accuracy

What is the best caliper for reloading? Many reloading enthusiasts will answer with this product for sure. This iGaging digital caliper has been on top of the caliper game for years.

Once you turn the device on, the actual sensor position will already be projected by the LCD screen, and that’s how fast it is. Adding to the ease of use, you don’t need to calibrate it if you want to zero it out. You just need to reset the device once, and you’re good to go.

Another highlight of this product is its IP54 protection. This means that you can use it without any problem in case it is exposed to water and dust—no need to worry about rendering inaccurate measurements.

The caliper can measure up to 6 inches of material in increments of 0.02 mm or 0.001 inches. Just what any reloading enthusiast needs. In terms of battery life, it can last you up to two years.

PROS

  • Can easily reverse back to zero, you just need to reset it
  • Comes with an extra battery
  • IP54 rated and ISO certified
  • Effortless to use plus the sliding motion is very smooth

CONS

  • Not suited for places with humidity of more than 80%

6. Mitutoyo 500-752-20, Digimatic Caliper

Mitutoyo 500-752-20, Coolant Proof Digimatic Caliper, 0-6', IP67, 0005' 0.01mm No SPC

Sometimes, it can be hard to keep a clean working area. A lot of dust can be around us, and it can affect our calipers’ accuracy. But not with this product. This 500-752-20 caliper from Mitutoyo is coolant proof to IP67. Neither dust, water, oil, nor coolant can affect how amazing its performance is.

It comes with an automatic on and off feature, and a beautiful stainless-steel finish. The LCD readings are very large and easy to read, as well. Accuracy is superb, as we should expect from Mitutoyo. It can measure in increments of 0.001 inches or 0.02 mm. You can switch between these measurements in just a click of a button.

As much as we want to, batteries will not last forever. This model features easy removal of the battery cap in case you need to replace it. Also, the stainless-steel construction is made to last for years.

PROS

  • Equipped with a large and clear LCD
  • Convenient to use and offers automatic on and off system
  • Can measure both in inch and mm
  • IP67 certified, can work perfectly even if exposed with dust, water, oil, and coolant

CONS

  • Turns on quickly with little movement and will take 20 minutes to turn off

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7. Starrett EC799A-6/150 Electronic Caliper

Starrett Stainless Steel Electronic Slide Caliper - 0-6' Range, 0005' Resolution, LCD Display, Fine...

Starrett is another brand that is known to provide the market top of the line calipers. A lot of hand loaders and reloading enthusiasts will tell you that this is the best electronic digital caliper for reloading.

The model can measure up to 6 inches of material in increments of 0.0015 inches or 0.02 mm. It’s the perfect accuracy every reloader needs. This is great for starters that wish to enhance their skills—no need to read the small symbols on dial calipers.

You will love how sleek and modern the product looks. It also is very comfortable and easy to use. Moreover, it is made with stainless-steel that ensures durability.

The product is designed to have a slim and streamlined profile for a better grip. You also get a large LCD screen. On top of that, the caliper comes with a nice plastic case.

PROS

  • Offers very accurate measurements, perfect for reloading
  • You’ll know the measurement in a glance, thanks to the large LCD
  • Comes with an ergonomic design
  • Made from stainless steel
  • Includes an extra LR44 battery

CONS

  • The average battery life is only six months

8. Brown & Sharpe 599-579-5 Dial Caliper

TESA Brown & Sharpe 599-579-5 Stainless Steel Dial Caliper, Black Face, 0'-6' Range, +/-0.001'...

This is the only dial caliper in our review, but it will impress you as much as the other digital calipers did. It comes with a rotating dial that is 1.25 inches in diameter. The product has the capacity to measure materials up to 6 inches.

Moreover, you can use it to measure inside dimensions, outside dimensions, and also depth and step. It is an all-around tool and can be used not just for reloading. Speaking of reloading, let’s look at its accuracy, shall we? It features precise dial graduation of 0.001 inches or 0.02 mm.

You may think that digital calipers are much better than dial calipers, although we believe this to be true, we cannot deny the fact that digital ones will work only as long as there is battery life. That said, it will not hurt to have a backup dial caliper in case you can’t get a hold of a battery replacement right away.

PROS

  • Perfect accuracy for reloading
  • Rotating dial can be locked into place if needed
  • Offers calculation of 4 types of measurements
  • The model’s gear is protected from foreign matter
  • Made from stainless steel and meets DIN 862 standards

CONS

  • People with poor eyesight might have a hard time reading the dial

9. Mitutoyo 500-474 Digital Calipers

Mitutoyo 500-474 Digital Calipers, Solar Powered, Inch/Metric, for Inside, Outside and Step...

One key consideration of choosing a caliper, as for digital models, is the battery life. We will mention this in our buying guide. Some models in this list failed our expectations, and some impressed us. Well, this model from Mitutoyo is way different from the rest.


The 500-474 caliper model is solar powered! It will ensure continued use without having to change the battery at all. The product comes with hard-coatedsolar panels that will protect the cells that store energy. It also comes with a large LCD screen that displays either in inches or in millimeters.

Reloading enthusiasts will like how accurate this product is. It is rated + or – 0.02 mm. The rolling thumbwheel and thumbscrew locks are very easy to use. In terms of versatility, it will not fail to impress.

It can make inside, outside, depth, or step measurements. The product is made from stainless steel and is protected by a plastic case.

PROS

  • No need to replace the battery
  • Made from stainless steel
  • Offers 4 types of measurements
  • Caliper is extremely accurate
  • Comes at a reasonable price

CONS

  • Battery requires sufficient light to charge

10. Fowler Euro-Cal IV Electronic Caliper

Fowler Stainless Steel Frame Euro-Cal IV Electronic Caliper

This digital caliper has an accuracy of +/–.0015 inches or .03mm with 0.0005 inches or 0.01mm resolution. Plus, the hardened stainless-steel frame used to construct this model will ensure that no corrosion will take place. This is one of the products that you know will last you for decades.

The single value LCD is large and easy to see. In just a click, you can choose between inches, millimeters, or even fractions—no need to convert. For reloading enthusiasts who are a bit clumsy, this is the product for you. It is certified to IP54, meaning splashing liquid and dust will not affect its performance.

This caliper can measure up to 12 inches of reloading material. You can use this product to take inside, outside, and step measurements. It also comes with a fitted case for better storage. The battery lifespan is also nice and will last you for long.

PROS

  • The caliper is made from stainless-steel that’s corrosion-resistant
  • Easy to see LCD screen
  • Convenient to use and can measure up to 12 inches
  • It is IP54 rated
  • Reasonable price

CONS

  • Does not offer the best accuracy
  • Absence of automatic on and off function

Features to Look for Before Buying Caliper

Features to Look for Before Buying Caliper

Without the proper knowledge or idea on what factors make good digital calipers for reloading, you might end up with a product that will not perform the way you want it to, and it will just be a waste of time and money.
To help you in preventing that from happening, here are some points you should consider before you make your purchase.

Precision and Accuracy

Without a doubt, precision and accuracy are the most important factors to consider. This is why you are purchasing a caliper in the first place. For you to be able to take the measurement you need for reloading, your caliper should have an accuracy of 0.001 inches or 0.02 millimeters.

Measuring Modes

To get the best out of your digital caliper, it should feature different measuring modes. When reloading, you mainly measure your materials by millimeter, but sometimes, you also need to measure by fractions or inches. No one wants to take a pad or calculator and convert, right?

Quality of Materials Used and Overall Construction

You want your caliper to last you for years. This will be determined by what materials were used and how it was put together. Always choose a model that is made from top quality stainless steel.

Battery Life

One downside of digital calipers is that they need a source of energy to work. That said, look for a model that is equipped with long-lasting battery power. The last thing you want is to replace your battery every month or for it to stop working in the middle of your reloading activity.

Ease of Use

If you have decided to go for a digital scale, maybe it’s because you want something easy and quick to use. Look for a model that generates measurements quickly and has a large display that can easily be seen in a glance.

Digital Calipers vs. Dial Calipers for Reloading

Digital Calipers vs. Dial Calipers for Reloading

Still, contemplating on whether to upgrade to digital calipers or not? For us, dial calipers are good, but considering digital caliper’s advantages, we’ll choose digital over dial calipers. Let us list them one by one.

Advantages of Digital Calipers

Much Easier to Use

They can show you the measurements in almost an instant. No need to read the small figures in the dial that can take too much time, especially for those with poor eyesight. It saves a lot of time, and of course, little to no effort is needed.

The large LCD screens that most models are equipped with are even bigger than your digital watch, so even those who don’t have a perfect vision can use it.
Another thing is that it’s very easy to convert measurements. Most digital calipers feature a button for this very purpose.

Very Easy to Calibrate

One of my favorite features of digital calipers is that you just need to press a button to zero it out. No need to perform any calibration! Talk about saving time!

Accuracy and Precision

Digital calipers are very sensitive and will offer you high accuracy readings. What’s more, do you know how hard it is to rely on a dial caliper’s measurement after it was accidentally dropped?

The rack and pinion on the inside will most likely be misaligned, making it difficult to calibrate.

Since digital calipers do not use the rack and pinion system, you don’t need to worry about it. We must say that digital calipers are shockproof in this case.

Disadvantages of Digital Calipers

Needs Battery to Work

Like any other product, digital calipers also have their cons. Although we must say that the only advantage of a dial over digital calipers is that they don’t use batteries.

No Weather Proofing

Unfortunately, they can be vulnerable to being destroyed when used in extreme weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to reload my own ammo?


Any mishandling of any firearms or ammunition is dangerous. But as long as you follow the reloading instructions carefully, and have a reasonable amount of attention to detail, you are good to go.

Do I really need a digital caliper for reloading?


You sure do. When you are reloading cartridge or using a new set of die, your caliper will help you get the most accurate measurements. Accuracy is key to come up with the best rifle cartridges.

Is it necessary to get an expensive digital caliper?


It depends on how much you think is expensive. We recommend sticking with the models in this list and allot a bit more money than buying cheap ones that will not perform well.

How do you maintain a digital caliper?


In terms of maintenance, there’s nothing much you should do. You just need to brush off any dirt before using and keep a note of when to change the battery.

Can I use my caliper in extreme weather conditions?


Unfortunately, extreme weather conditions will greatly impact your caliper. What’s worse, it will destroy it.
The temperature condition should be around 20°C when you’re using it.

Final Words

Which of these calipers for reloading did you choose? I’m sure that your reloading skills will improve a lot with your pick. Just remember to use your ammo properly. Good luck!