The nice thing about the proper GO / NO GO gauges is that when they hit the limit, it is a hard stop, that is very clear demarcation point. The bolt handle will simply stop with no mush or crush. Thus, when the headspace is wrong, you know it and when it is within spec, you also know it.
The use of a brass case and/or tape is very inaccurate and the end points of the measurement range become soft and mushy. Then there is the problem of not knowing if the case being used is within the SAAMI headspace range.
The cost of a set of gauges is not that much. Saving money by half-assing the headspace gauges is a false economy that simply does not make sense. Get the proper tool for the job.
The use of a brass case and/or tape is very inaccurate and the end points of the measurement range become soft and mushy. Then there is the problem of not knowing if the case being used is within the SAAMI headspace range.
The cost of a set of gauges is not that much. Saving money by half-assing the headspace gauges is a false economy that simply does not make sense. Get the proper tool for the job.