Using the Check-It-Gauge to measure the thickness of an insert while it is still on the machine can be a real benefit, especially if the insert is large and hard to move. Yes, this can be accomplished with a standard depth micrometer. However, when using the Check-It-Gauge, the total amount of remaining stock can be preset so that when you reach zero, your insert is to size.

The digital Check-It-Gauge is shown. Its advantages are the ease of reading and zeroing out. Compared to the dial gauge, a disadvantage might be that it's harder to preset a depth and also see rapidly changing surface variances.

To set the flat of a core pin head, zero out on the stem, then move to the head and read remaining stock to be removed.

Stock height can be tracked by presetting the gauge to the amount needed to be removed. This reduces how carefully you need to touch off with your first cut. The remaining stock to be removed can easily be viewed. In this case, a parallel is used to help reach over the vise jaw. With everything clean and flat, this method works well and is extremely useful when machining other details.

Using the same concept as above, setups can be made and machined steps can be verified. Checking for part creep during roughing operations may also be of benefit. If the stock is past the edge of the vise, it may work well to place the Check-It-Gauge base onto the work stock and make repeated measurements to a marked area on the vise.