I don't work in a shop, but the shop I go to has or has used some of the tools. They had the digital ball scale when they first opened but got rid of it in favor of a regular kaufmann. Something about having to re-calibrate it all the time. They also have the adjustable ball compass. When I lay out my own stuff there I use it and really like it. I have never seen them use it with another customer. They also have the grip gauge but I didn't know that until I was in there last week. I played with it a little bit and can see how useful it could be, but once again I have never seen them actually use it.
I imagine that the stuff is pretty expensive. It all seems like it is well-built and designed. IMO it would make sense for a high-volume shop to use because it certainly speeds up the layout and drilling process. I'll ask them next time I'm in why they have the stuff but don't use it.
Don
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"You cannot change the stripes of a leopard."
~Emmitt Smith
