hand held hardness testers?

[22H2]

Does anyone have any experiance with a hand held Ames hardness tester? Or any other brand?

thanks

[Craigb]

I have a model one and like it a lot. You don’t want the testers with the “s” suffix they are for testing superficial hardness for case hardening. They are expensive new but can be found used at times.

If you’re buying a used one make sure that everything is there. I have looked at several on e-bay that have missing parts with no mention of in the seller’s description. Replacement parts are high also.

http://www.amesportablehardnesstesters.com/

Craig

[Don Robinson]

These are designed to be taken to parts too large for a bench tester. Much more difficult to get an accurate reading on a small workpiece.

[SVanderkolff]

Don
I have a small hand held one that I use al the time. It is great but as mentioned if you are getting a used one make sure it has the diamond penatrator as they are real expensive to replace. I use mine on every blade and it is amazingly consistent. I figure mine is accurate plus/minus 2 point od hardness which for the stuff I am making is pleant accurate.
Hope that helps
Steve

[22H2]

thanks Craig

Steve what brand do you use?

[SVanderkolff]

I am pretty sure mine is an Ames as well. Looks like the one in the link but definetely an older version. Mine came in a wooden box with a couple of tester blocks as well. I would guess it is a 1960's version.
Steve

[22H2]

thanks Steve

[Craig B.]

I've had an Ames handheld for about 10 years. Can't beat it. I just clamp it in my vise by the handle andgo to testing. Works great. Best thing is, when done just put it back in it's wooden box and stick in a drawer.

Much more convenient than a bench model and every bit as accurate. The only trouble I sometimes have is in cold weather. I don't keep my shop heated al the time and sometimes have to warm up the tester before I test it.

Good Luck!

[22H2]

thanks Craig, I plan on purchasing a hand held version.