Not sure what you mean by “deceiving” and “its easy bend the result to fit”? A measurement is either right or wrong, surely?
I rely on a comparative method for accurate sizing as does industry.
Those that read my last post may have noticed “bore mics” at the bottom of the post, that was a reminder to self, got distracted and hit post!
I use bore micrometers in the range of 1/2″ – 1″. I find the ratchet on those works very well with regard to accuracy and consistency.