Baseline Pinch Gauge, 30 lb Capacity

The Baseline Pinch Gauge measures tip, key, and palmar pinch strength in both pounds and kilograms, providing accurate and repeatable results consistent with published Markowitz normative studies. The peak-hold indicator remains at the maximum reading until manually reset, allowing the practitioner to record the result without rushing. The 30 lb capacity covers the full clinical range for pinch strength assessment in orthopedic and sports medicine settings. Includes a protective case for storage and transport.

Key Features

• Measures tip, key, and palmar pinch strength in pounds and kilograms
• Accurate and repeatable measurements consistent with published Markowitz normative studies
• Peak-hold indicator — remains at maximum reading until reset for easy documentation
• 30 lb capacity — covers the full clinical range for pinch strength assessment
• Includes protective case for storage and transport

Specifications

• Brand: Baseline
• SKU: 10038A
• UPC: 714905013610
• Capacity: 30 lbs
• Units: Pounds and kilograms
• Measurement types: Tip pinch, key pinch, palmar pinch
• Includes: Protective case
• Country of Origin: China

Ideal For

This pinch gauge is an excellent choice for occupational therapists, physical therapists, and hand specialists who perform routine pinch strength assessments as part of functional capacity evaluations, hand rehabilitation programs, or return-to-work assessments. It is well-suited for orthopedic and sports medicine clinics that require a reliable, normative-referenced instrument for documenting pinch strength baselines and tracking patient progress over time. The peak-hold indicator makes it particularly effective in busy clinical settings where the practitioner needs to record results without an assistant. Any hand therapy or rehabilitation clinic that requires a durable, accurate pinch gauge with a full 30 lb capacity and protective case for daily clinical use will find the Baseline model a dependable and practical choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between tip, key, and palmar pinch?
Tip pinch measures the force between the tip of the thumb and the tip of the index finger. Key pinch (also called lateral pinch) measures the force between the thumb pad and the lateral surface of the index finger, as used when holding a key. Palmar pinch (also called three-jaw chuck pinch) measures the force between the thumb and the pads of the index and middle fingers together. Each pinch type activates different muscle groups and is assessed separately in a comprehensive hand strength evaluation.

What are Markowitz normative studies?
The Markowitz studies are published normative data sets that provide expected pinch strength values by age, gender, and hand dominance for healthy adults. Results consistent with Markowitz norms allow clinicians to compare a patient's measured pinch strength against population averages, which is useful for identifying deficits, setting rehabilitation goals, and documenting functional progress for clinical and insurance documentation purposes.

How do I reset the peak-hold indicator?
After recording the maximum reading, manually reset the indicator needle to zero using the reset mechanism on the gauge before the next measurement. Always confirm the indicator is fully reset to zero before each trial to ensure accurate results.

How do I calibrate and maintain the pinch gauge?
Baseline pinch gauges should be checked for calibration accuracy periodically, especially with frequent clinical use. Refer to the manufacturer's calibration instructions included with the gauge. Store the gauge in the included protective case when not in use to prevent damage to the mechanism. Avoid dropping the gauge, as impact can affect calibration accuracy.