In fact, picking one right Single-correct Thread Plug Gage has been equated with going through a maze-turning this way and that way. If one dives headfirst deep into the ocean of premier gages, WESTport Corporation rises tall with almost a dizzying range of choices. Indeed, they offer those personalized touches sans putting you into circles.
First, get clear on what you’re measuring. Not all gages are created equal, and you’d be wise to think about the material of the component in question. A little background: different materials may require gages that have characteristics unique unto themselves. Those plastic parts are going to have different measurement stress than, say, hardened steel.
A friend learned it the hard way once when he ordered the wrong gage for a job. It is like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole-frustration rears its head.
Next, consider how much accuracy you need. People seem to think they need the tightest tolerance known to humanity for every job, but that’s like bringing a sledgehammer to a hangnail. It is like something that is impressive to say, but seldom necessary or practical. Know the particular tolerance that pertains to your project spec. Discuss with your team or suppliers about what is feasible and useful.
High temperatures or rough and tumble conditions can affect some materials. Same thing. Make sure that the gage can withstand the elements. I once had a coworker tell me of a nightmare where a gage warped because of unexpected plant heat. Lucky he found it in time. Now, the budget does come into play, too, but just consider this: the cheapest option can save a buck or two today but is likely to cost you big if it means inaccuracies down the line. So look to the long haul. Same reason you don’t skimp on thread count for bed sheets. Quality counts.