"Daniel J. Stern" > wrote in message
.umich.edu...
>
> Nope. There is nothing inherent in dial-type construction that makes these
> gauges more accurate than stick-type gauges. There are good and bad
> examples of all kinds of tire gauges (digital, dial and stick).

That isn't quite accurate, Daniel. The stick type gauges have a
considerable friction component which a decent Bourdon tube gauge
will not have. The friction in a stick type gauge can vary a lot with
moisture, temperature, wear, mechanical deformation, etc. The Bourdon type
has its weaknesses too, I'll admit.

I have not seen a good quality stick type gauge in a long time, and have
certainly looked for one. Paid rather dearly for a supposedly good tractor
type gauge (because it is supposed to be resistant to water which is common
in tractor tires), and it wasn't very good either.

These little cheapo stick type gauges you pick up for a few dollars at parts
stores or Walmart are about as accurate and dependable as Stari Arbat
watches.