Any tool that will produce consistent readings is worth cost / effort.

The only way to measure pits (this topic keeps coming back) that might be available is an ultrasonic thickness gage. Relatively inexpensive ones are around, but will not do the job. It would take a high end instrument, one that measures coatings.

You can pick up an inexpensive bore scope. Then you can at least view the pits.

There are number of folks who have already posted on this thread. They know what they are talking about. This board is a good place to vet an idea, it is even a better place to learn. I am still learning from many here.

Pete