I know about the backlash and ensure when I change direction that I
re-zero the dial reading to take out the backlash.

Explain in more detail how you do this.

A good investment would be an edge finder for $10 or so. It will get you
within a half thou.


Currently I measuring cuts with the dials on the handles manually (which
is very tedious and easy for mistakes), but have ordered some digital
scales that should make life easier.

You're not allowed to use digitals untill you master the dials.