Precision measurement tools are fundamental to any machinist’s arsenal. There is a bewildering array of these instruments, however. From height gages to dial test indicators, the dizzying array of devices confuses any newcomer. Despite this, there is one tool people will reach for more often than all others: a pair of calipers. For all measurements that do not require precision down to the tens of thousands of an inch, calipers will be your best friend. However, there are some considerations you must take into account when purchasing your first pair.

Size

Size is an important factor in choosing a pair of calipers. Consider your use case before deciding on a size.. Are you frequently measuring objects over 12 inches long? Are you trying to fit into tight spaces? Will you be carrying the pair in your pocket, or do you have a toolbox to leave them in? As a general rule, a six or eight-inch pair will be the sweet spot for most people. The author recommends leaning towards the eight-inch size as it is more versatile. However, a four-inch pair is ideal for pocket carry. This size often comes with a compact hard case that slips into a pocket easily. They also fit into very tight areas, such as inside machinery. For especially large objects, sets that are 36 inches and beyond exist, but are bulky and quite expensive. 

Type

There are three main types of calipers: vernier, dial, and digital. Each type has its distinct advantages and disadvantages. Vernier calipers are simple, with the fewest moving parts, available in larger sizes, and are also the least expensive. However, they are the most difficult to read, and the markings can be obscured easily by corrosion or dust. Dial calipers are very easy to read, widely available, and can be found in a wide variety of scales in both metric and imperial. However, they are vulnerable to damage, and the dials can be scratched easily. Digital calipers are even easier to read, are very user-friendly, and often switch between metric and imperial scales with the press of a button. Despite this, the addition of a battery adds the risk of corroding the contacts and needs to be replaced often. In addition, they cannot be repaired easily, and quality ones will be expensive. For the majority of users, the author recommends dial calipers. They offer a great compromise between readability and reliability, and batteries will not be a worry. Vernier calipers are for those who need to measure large objects, and digital calipers are best for those who switch between metric and imperial scales often. Despite their simplicity, each type does require you to learn how to use it. Some useful links to pages that will help you to understand how to read metrology equipment, such as calipers, will be posted below. 

Brands 

As is true with almost everything, not every pair of calipers is created equal. Large amounts of cheap, poorly-made metrology equipment exist on the open market. Stick to proven, reliable brands and be prepared to spend a decent amount of money on them. Brands you should look out for include Starrett, Mitutoyo, Brown and Sharpe, Fowler, Tesa, and Asimeto. Some older manufacturers to also look out for are Lufkin and Penncraft. Make sure you purchase from a reputable retailer. If purchasing used, ensure that the calipers are either certified or check them yourself with a gage block or standard. 

Conclusion 

Carefully consider each one of these considerations when purchasing your first pair of calipers. They will be one of the most important measuring tools you own, so take care to select something that suits your needs. Remember, quality tools last a lifetime, and nothing is better than owning something that you can pass to the next generation.

Basics of Fishing 

Fishing is one of humanity’s oldest pastimes. Because of this, it has grown into an all-encompassing world that can drown any newcomer in the sheer amount of knowledge and tradition that it contains. There is so much variety in the species that can be targeted and the tackle that can be used that jumping into the world of fishing can seem daunting. However, strip away layers of mysticism and superstition, and the sport becomes surprisingly simple. 

Fishing can be broken down into three fundamental pillars: location, species, and tackle.

Location

The location you choose to fish is a key factor in how enjoyable your trip will be. For a beginner, fishing from either a pier or the bank is ideal. There, you have fewer variables to worry about, allowing you to focus on catching fish. To maximize your chances, however, you can’t just pick any location that meets these criteria. Ensure that the spot you choose has some sort of natural feature that attracts fish. Two features that are excellent indicators of fish-catching potential are cover and food. Cover is any feature that fish can use to hide from predators. Look for overhangs, sunken brush piles, pier supports, and waterlogged trees. What each fish considers food varies wildly. Fish feed on everything from grasshoppers falling into the water to minnows darting around. Look for activity and water disturbances that would indicate active and feeding fish.

Species

Each species of fish has unique habits that dictate how they interact with their environment. These habits also dictate how you, the angler, will have to fish for them. Study your targeted species and learn about the nuances related to it. In the midwestern United States, some of the primary sport fish species are largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie, walleye, yellow perch, trout, and salmon. Some of these species are limited to very specific habitats, so do your research so that you can identify them. Each of these species also has a specific preference for certain types of prey. Bluegill, for example, enjoy small aquatic insects. Crappie, while looking very similar to bluegill, prefer small minnows. These small differences can make the difference between a full stringer and coming home empty-handed. Use resources such as other anglers, online magazines like In-Fisherman or Field and Stream, or your local DNR office. Knowledge is power, and this logic still applies to fishing. 

Tackle

Tackle is key to your success on the water. The first and most critical part of your equipment is your rod and reel. While you will develop preferences as you advance as an angler, the author recommends freshwater beginners to start with a seven-foot, medium-action, medium-power spinning rod with a reel spooled with 12 lb test monofilament line. While this may sound like a foreign language, it is all describing a middle-of-the-road rod that will be suitable for almost every type of freshwater fishing. Each rod has its basic specifications listed on it above its grips, so be sure to check when purchasing. Reels usually list general line capacity by weight on their spool. Great deals can be found at garage sales, pawn shops, and during yearly sale events at tackle supply retailers such as Bass Pro Shops. 

Once you have your combo, now it is time to select what you'll actually be tying onto your line. Fishing tackle can be divided into two categories: bait and lures. Bait is anything that is actually edible to the fish, while lures are artificial imitations of bait or something that the fish perceive as edible. Consult the resources listed in the Species section and use them as a guide as to what to purchase. Shop around for the best deals, and consult local tackle shops for more advice and assistance. Any good bait shop owner will be happy to help. 

Fishing is an incredible pastime. Armed with the knowledge in this article, you will be more than prepared to begin your journey into the depths of the angling world. Just remember to be courteous to your fellow anglers, to the fish you’re chasing, and to the water you have the privilege to use. If we all do our part, future generations of anglers can enjoy the same pastime that we do now. Now, get out there and get fishing!

LaPorte High School has an excellent collection of academic competition teams. Despite the overall success of these teams, one group has recently achieved an incredible feat. The LaPorte Varsity Envirothon team dubbed the “Bison” has defended their title as regional champions for the fourth consecutive year. By doing so, they have consolidated their dominance on the local level and qualified yet again for the State competition. This team had to overcome great challenges, such as losing a team member, a new competition schedule, and decreased class time to prepare.  The team consisted of the veterans Shane Berry, Lyndsey Osborne, Cooper Scroggin, and Micheal St. Arnaud. They were joined by a newcomer, Desiree Vowels, who stepped up to the plate when an original member dropped out due to personal issues on the eve of the competition. 

Each of the five team members performed admirably and conquered the challenges presented by the Envirothon. During a competition, members are quizzed on five topics: forestry, soils, aquatics, wildlife, and current event. Each member specializes in a certain area and performs research on their topic to prepare for the exam. Each topic is given a unique test that is 20 questions long and contains a wide variety of questions relating to the topic. 

Once the tests are received, a one-hour clock is started. Each member of the team first completes an individual test and checks it themselves. After, competitors on the same team are allowed to check their teammates’ tests. This is where the strengths of the LPHS team truly shine through. All members have knowledge that spans simple categories, and by looking at each other’s work, they can fill in gaps. 

Utilizing this strategy, LaPorte has had continued success. With the latest win, the advancement of the LaPorte Bison team into the next round of competition is secured. The team now moves on to state competition, which has a different ruleset.

The team will likely do well, as last year’s competitors secured a first-place title in the written test. Despite this, there is still some uncertainty, as competition is stiff this year.1No matter how well the Bison do at the State competition, their success is already remarkable. Their continued ability to perform has filled a trophy case for LaPorte and developed a reputation of excellence for the science programs. However, time will tell if the success will last beyond the current graduating class. The majority of the team is graduating, leaving members such as Shane Berry to carry the torch and continue the reign of the Bison at the top of the competition circuit.

As with most consumer products, the price of tools has skyrocketed in recent years. Trusted tool makers such as Snap-On and Mac have been steadily raising prices over the last couple of decades, but as of late, the price hikes have become unbearable. Their quality control has begun to decline and their warranty policy has also begun to suffer. Americans are in desperate need of a source of low-cost, high-quality tooling. However, conventional retailers are not the place to find them. Use one of these five sources to find gently used or even brand-new tools for a fraction of their retail price. 

Antique Stores

Antique stores are excellent sources of older yet still completely serviceable tools. In addition, many modern tools wind up on their shelves simply because they are dirty. For example, quality Rigid pipe wrenches are commonly found in antique shops. These wrenches can retail for hundreds of dollars if they are one of the larger models. Yet, most antique sellers mark them for fractions of that figure. Antique stores also present an opportunity to purchase tools that aren’t commonly sold in the present market, such as woodworking and furniture-making hand tools. 

Pawn Shops

Pawn shops stock a varying selection of tools. If you are looking for power tools, pawn shops are an excellent place to search. Many of these tools are modern and come with batteries and other accessories. However, buyers must be careful not to purchase any tools with unscrupulous origins. Thoroughly vet each pawn shop and ensure that they either let buyers try out and handle the tools or offer returns for defective items. Never trust the salesman’s word and always perform function checks. 

Estate Sales

Estate sales are similar to garage sales, yet provide even more opportunities. Every item in an estate sale must be sold, and the owners of those items have unfortunately passed away. Their families often package items in large bundles and sell them off to help pay for expenses related to debts, funerals, or medical bills. Just remember that it is in poor taste to haggle with the grieving family and to be courteous at all times. 

Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is a goldmine for tool buying. People often sell huge lots of tools for discount prices all because they either need them gone or have upgraded. In addition, many have no idea of the value of their tools and list them for much less than they should. Buyers can also haggle with users on Facebook, further driving down prices. Despite all these benefits, buyers are still interacting with strangers online and meeting in person, so exercise caution. 

Garage Sales

Garage sales are also excellent opportunities. Each seller is incredibly motivated, as the sole purpose of a garage sale is to clear out excess ‘junk’ from one’s home. Buyers should use this to their advantage. Garage sales give buyers opportunities to inspect every item, ensuring that they are all in working order. Those with sharp eyes can also spot items that aren’t directly listed for sale and give offers for those, granting them access to deals that otherwise would not be available.

Reinventing the wheel is a task that many attempt, yet few see success. However, with the magic of German engineering, the Rhineland industrial giant Knipex has continued to innovate on the most fundamental tool in a mechanic’s arsenal. Its pliers wrench combines the ease of use and quick adjustability of a pair of slip-joint pliers with the grip of a traditional adjustable wrench. 

The pliers wrench was first introduced in 1994, yet they have just begun to proliferate the American market. Large retailers such as Menards and Amazon now carry the entire Knipex range, and tool trucks sell them with their excellent warranty coverage. Knipex has made great strides in marketing and social media outreach as well, introducing many to its excellent line of tools.

Offered in two different finishes, three different grip options, and a whole range of sizes, this tool is an excellent example of the quality that is a hallmark of the Knipex brand. The review model purchased by the author is a 7 ¼ inch model in black phosphate finish with non-insulated comfort grips. The fit and machining quality is excellent, and the finish is incredibly tough. It was not easily scratched with a file, and the jaws of the pliers are hardened. The spring return is responsive and all moving parts are tensioned properly. 

What makes the pliers wrench unique is its parallel jaws and “ratchet principle.” The jaws are machined flat and run parallel to each other. With the adjustment button, users can widen or narrow the jaws to match the size of the fastener. Included on the side of the tool is a graduated scale in both SAE and metric for reference. Once a size is selected, the “ratchet principle” allows users to loosen the grip of the jaws just enough to advance on a fastener without completely removing the tool, unlike an adjustable wrench. This greatly improves the speed at which someone can work and reduces time wasted fiddling with tooling. 

Overall, this is an excellent buy that is recommended for almost every type of mechanic. Knipex offers a model that suits almost every need if one is willing to pay the premium that comes with some of the larger models. While the Knipex pliers wrench won’t entirely replace a traditional adjustable wrench set, it will revolutionize your toolbox. They are easier to use, require less of a learning curve, and take up less space. For tasks that do not require incredible amounts of torque or leverage, the Knipex pliers wrench is the perfect tool.

As the winter drags on, the importance of winter safety items is becoming increasingly apparent. Winter weather increases the risk of breakdowns and accidents, making emergency kits in cars all that more important. However, with many students taking to the roads for the first time this winter, education of what students need to include in these kits is incredibly important. The following 15 items are all gear that a prepared motorist would never leave home without. 

Blanket of some type

During this sub-zero weather, any insulation helps. A blanket provides much-needed warmth in the frigid winter months and can be worn directly over winter layers. It can also be used as a towel in an emergency. **Water and snacks **Food and water are critical components of any prepared motorist’s stockpile of supplies. Keep a few water bottles and some non-perishable, individually wrapped snacks for moments where access to these goods is limited. 

Winter layers

During the winter months, low temperatures can kill. Car heaters can fail and don’t function without fuel, so keep a spare set of winter layers in the vehicle at all times. A spare jacket can mean the difference between life and death. 

Change of clothes

A change of clothes can mean the difference between a ruined day and a small bump in the road. Keep a full spare set in the car to minimize the effect spills, stains, tears, and other damage have on a productive day. **Jumper Cables/Pack **Car batteries are notoriously unreliable and prone to failure at the most inconvenient of times. Protect against this by keeping a jump pack or jumper cables in the vehicle. Keep a printed set of instructions for whichever device you select as well, so that others without knowledge of the system can assist in an emergency situation. 

Snowbrush

A snowbrush is the primary weapon against the mountains of snow and ice that smother the landscape throughout the winter. Sometimes even the most powerful defroster struggles against the freezing weather, and a quality snowbrush can help break this deadlock. Purchase a model with a longer reach and a quality scraper, and leave it in an easily accessible location. 

Towels/Rags 

Spills and accidents happen often. A sturdy towel or a couple of clean rags are a lifesaver, especially when far from home. By cleaning spills quickly, staining and other damage can be minimized. These rags can also be used to clean mirrors if they become dirty or caked in snow. 

Spare fluids (if necessary)

High school students often operate on a tight budget. The cars they can afford are not often in perfect mechanical condition, and it is better to be safe than sorry. A spare bottle of antifreeze or coolant can often be the difference between a costly towing bill and making it home on time. 

Rain gear 

Northwest Indiana weather is unpredictable, and rain often appears suddenly and without warning. Raingear is essential, as it keeps you dry and comfortable when the heavens open up. Freezing rain can also cause hypothermia quickly, especially when temperatures drop when the sun goes down. 

First aid kit 

Cuts and scrapes are not an uncommon occurrence, so it is in the best interest of a prepared motorist to keep a well-stocked first aid kit. Remember that a first aid kit is not only useful for its owner but also for good samaritans who may respond to an accident before emergency medical services arrive. 

Flashlight  

As the days become increasingly long, night still remains the most dangerous time to be on the roadways. Keep a flashlight to illuminate the engine bay, check underneath seats, and to navigate outside the vehicle after dark. Make sure to include a spare set of batteries. 

Road flares or triangles 

One of the leading causes of death for stranded motorists is being hit after exiting their vehicle. To improve visibility, keep flares or reflective triangles in an emergency kit. These devices allow other motorists to see that there is an emergency and create a buffer zone for the stranded vehicle. 

Phone charger

A cell phone is a key lifeline. It must be kept charged at all times, so a phone charger is necessary. It is also wise to keep spare chargers for different types of connectors so that you can charge different types of devices. 

Insurance and registration in waterproof container 

Insurance and registration are both key documents a driver must be able to produce at any given time. Keep them both in a waterproof container in the glove box of the vehicle. It is also wise to keep service records and other vital information in this container.  

$20 in cash

Even though the world is moving towards an all-digital payment system, cash is still king. Keep at least $20 in your glove box to purchase gas or to stop and buy another necessity.

When filling out the Common App, one of the most labor intensive tasks is inputting grades under the self-reporting section. However, this section is vital for some schools. Purdue University, for example, requires this information to be completely filled out for applications to be considered. 

The first step in this process is for a student to log into their Skyward account. From there, select the Academic History menu on the left side of the home page. 

This menu will show all of the classes a student has taken in their high school career. From there, students can view the semester and final grades for these classes, which are essential for the next steps. 

After the student has access to these grades, they must log into their Common App account. From there, navigate from the home page to the application itself. On the left side of the screen there is a menu containing all criteria that must be completed in order to submit the application. At the bottom of this menu is the Courses and Grades section. 

Students should select this section. Once there, students should select “Yes” when asked if they have access to their transcripts. From there, select the blue “Continue” button at the bottom of the page. 

On the next page, students should select the “Edit 9th Grade” button. Once they do so, a new menu will appear full of drop down boxes. Students should input their high school, LaPorte High School, and select the school year that they were in ninth grade. 

Next, select the A-F grading scale, as that is the scale utilized by LaPorte Community School Corporation. Students should also select Semesters under that Schedule drop down box. 

Once this top row of boxes is filled out, students will then move onto filling out each individual class during their freshman year. For each class, they should select the subject that best describes the class selected. Then, students should describe the type of class, noting any dual credit, honors, or AP designations. If none of these titles apply, then students should select Regular/Standard. 

Once this step has been completed, the first semester, second semester, and final semester grades should be inputted. After that, the credits earned for each course should entered. A full semester class generally awards two credits. Repeat these steps for each course. 

Once all courses are filled out for a student’s freshman year, they should click the continue button and repeat the process for the next 3 years of high school. 

However, if a student’s transcript does not include official grades for their senior year, that student should select the “No” option when asked this question on the 12th Grade menu.

In addition, if there are any high school credits that a student wants to enter, they should navigate to the “Other Courses” and input any additional credits. Any courses taken in middle school can be accessed in the Portfolio section in Skyward. 

Once this step is completed, students should ensure that they accurately filled out all relevant information and selected every check box presented. After this is completed, students should take solace in the fact that they are one step closer to completing their college application.

As the college application process drags on, many students realize that they are missing one crucial piece of their portfolios: letters of recommendation. These letters allow the teachers that are so instrumental in developing students showcase the excellent qualities that student truly exhibits. As important as they may be, many students are confused as to how to request these letters. 

The first step in this process is to log into Clever. Each student’s Clever account is linked to a variety of useful websites, all accessible with a student’s school email and ID number.

After logging into Clever, students should find the Naviance icon. It is found under the District section towards the bottom of the home page. 1Once students have selected this icon, they will be brought to the home page of Naviance. This site, along with the Common App, is crucial to almost every college application. Naviance is the hub where students can request information from their teachers and counselors.

To request a letter of recommendation, students must find the toolbar at the top of the page. Students will then select the Colleges tab. Once they do so, a series of sub-menus will appear onscreen. Students should select the Letters of Reccomendation tab, which is located under the Apply to College header. 

Once students have selected the tab, they will be sent to the Letters of Reccomendation page. If a student has requested any letters, they will be displayed here. 

To request a letter, students should select the blue Add Request button. Once they do so, they are presented with a series of questions about the letter they wish to request. The first is a list of all teachers available to request letters of recommendation from. Students should select the teacher they wish to request a letter from in this drop down menu. 

Next, students are presented with a choice as to what type of letter they would like to request. General letters work for any school and are often wider in scope. Specific letters are centered around one or more particular colleges and allow teachers to state in more detail why a student fits in those particular universities. If students want a specific letter, they will select this option and then check off any colleges they would like to focus on from the list of colleges they are interested in. If a General letter is requested, there is no extra step.

Finally, for both types of letters, there is a small section for any additional comments a student would like the teacher they requested the letter from to see. They should use this space to request specific details in their letter, thank the teacher for their time, or provide a general idea as to why they chose to ask this particular teacher. 

Once a student has finished, they must select the blue Submit Request button at the bottom of the page. Once they have completed this action, an email will be sent to the teachers requested, notifying them of the student’s request. In addition to this email, it is recommended to send an additional email thanking the teacher and reminding them of the request. 

Students will be able to check the progress of their requests from the Letters of Reccomendation menu that they submitted the request from. Once a teacher has fufilled the request, it will be marked as such. Students can then link these letters to their college applications, providing an excellent way to stand out from their peers.