Description
Precise measurement is the backbone of good reloading, and the Frankford Arsenal 516503 is a straightforward tool that gets the job done without a battery or a learning curve. The stainless steel frame gives it a solid feel on the bench, and the dial-style readout lets you take quick measurements accurate to within .001 inch. Whether you are checking case length, overall cartridge length, neck and base diameters, or primer pocket depth, this caliper covers the dimensions that matter when you are chasing consistency load after load.
What the Frankford Arsenal Dial Caliper Measures
This is a true four-function tool. It handles outside diameters, inside diameters, and depth measurements across a 0 to 6 inch range, which is the sweet spot for nearly every handgun and rifle cartridge you will run into. The dial face is easy to read at a glance, and there is a thumb roller for smooth, controlled movement when you want to sneak up on a measurement. The locking screw lets you hold a reading in place so you can double check it or compare against a reference.
Why a Dial Caliper Earns a Spot on the Bench
There is a reason a lot of reloaders keep a dial caliper around even if they own a digital one. No batteries to die mid session, nothing to fuss with, and the dial zeros out easily by loosening the knob at the base of the face and rotating it back to zero. That makes it simple to set your reference and read off differences fast. Stainless construction holds up to regular shop use and resists corrosion, so it stays reliable season after season.
Frankford Arsenal 516503 Build and Storage
It arrives packaged in a hard protective case that keeps the jaws and dial safe from dust and knocks between uses, which goes a long way toward keeping it accurate over the long haul. It is a practical, no-nonsense pick for anyone setting up a reloading station or adding a backup measuring tool to the kit.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Frankford Arsenal
- Manufacturer Part Number: 516503
- UPC: 661120440642
- Product Type: Dial Caliper
- Caliber/Gauge: Multi-Caliber
- Measurement Range: 0 to 6 inches
- Accuracy: Within .001 inch
- Measurement Functions: Inside diameter, outside diameter, and depth
- Material: Stainless steel
- Readout Type: Dial
- Color: Silver
- Quantity: 1
- Shipping Weight: 0.9 lbs
What’s Included
- Frankford Arsenal 516503 6-inch stainless steel dial caliper
- Protective storage case
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the Frankford Arsenal 516503 dial caliper?
It reads to within .001 inch, which is plenty of precision for checking case length, overall cartridge length, bullet diameters, and primer pocket depth. For general reloading work, that resolution keeps your loads consistent without overcomplicating things.
Does this dial caliper need batteries?
No. This is a mechanical dial caliper, so there is no battery and nothing to die mid session. That makes it a reliable choice as a primary tool or as a backup to a digital unit.
Can I zero the Frankford Arsenal dial caliper?
Yes. The knob at the base of the dial face loosens so you can rotate the face and set it back to zero. That lets you reference off a known measurement and read differences quickly.
What can I measure with this caliper besides cartridges?
It handles outside diameter, inside diameter, and depth across a 0 to 6 inch range, so it is useful for plenty of tasks beyond the reloading bench. Component checks, small parts, and general workshop measuring are all fair game.





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