Yes…my Starrett’s like that. But – what’s the term – the friction adjustment on the top of the thimble, (the clicky screw!) on this one is held in place with a tiny screw that doesn’t look as if it’s meant to come out regularly, while the rods themselves (unlike a Starrett) don’t have threaded ends.

Martyn

Photo 2

I take your point.  I paid more than that…

But, here’s the thing.

Nobody likes a smart arse.

This may be of help to other folk  who might be tempted to buy an Xibei depth micrometer.

I was a little bit put off by Robin Dufton’s ‘smart arse’ reply that my problem was caused by buying a ‘cheap’ product. The Xibei was certainly not – or not in may wallet, perhaps his. Not all of us have the resources to ‘fork out’ on a Starrett or ‘Mit’.

The answer, in the case of the Xibei, is that the rods are held in the body of the instrument by friction. The nasty little snag at the top of the rod increases the latter to hold the rod in place. Not as elegant as a Starrett etcetera but it works.

When I ‘sussed’ this methodology the Xibei works perfectly. It is nicely made and presented. The satin finish is excellent and the graduations perfect. Calibration is a pain because of the stiffness, but this may improve with use.

Hope this helps somebody. Peace and health in 2024     Martyn