Feeler gauges are handheld tools that are used to measure the distance between two objects, specifically very small distances between two components in a system. They utilize short, rounded blades of different, precise thicknesses to perform the measurement, where the user slides the blade between two objects to determine the distance. This differs from using a traditional ruler or measuring tape and provides a more accurate measurement for small distances.Feeler gauges come in a variety of build materials and size ranges and can measure as low as thousandths of an inch in imperial measurements, or hundredths of a millimeter in metric measurements. Each blade on a feeler gauge represents a different thickness and the blades pivot outwards much like a hand fan or a straight-edge razor. Stainless steel feeler gauges are the most common as they are sturdy and can be more accurate than a flimsier material.For very small distances, using a ruler or measuring tape would be inefficient with a high risk for inaccuracy. Engineers use feeler gauges as a measuring tool because instead of aligning the measuring device over the opening between two objects, as you would a ruler or measuring tape, they slide the blade into the opening and feel for any drag. This "feeling" of drag indicates that the opening is the same size of the specific feeler gauge blade, and is how the feeler gauge gets its name.Engineers using feeler gauges need to deploy a Go NoGo strategy in finding the right sized blade. They must estimate the size of the gap and select a blade to try. Once they align the blade perfectly straight in relation to the gap, they can slide the blade into the gap to test the size. If the blade is too small, there will be no friction or drag, but if the blade is too big it won't fit in the gap.RS Components carries a wide selection of feeler gauges, ranging in size, build material, and measuring system. Use the filters on the left to narrow down our inventory and find the feeler gauge that is right for your job.