What tool does the Acura emblem resemble?

The Acura emblem resembles a caliper, a tool used for measuring dimensions.

Acura introduced its brand in 1986 as Honda’s luxury and performance division for markets including North America. The emblem’s stylized form is based on a caliper and is also designed to resemble an angular letter A. This combines a technical reference with the first letter of Acura.

The tool reference suits Acura’s engineering-focused identity and distinguishes the badge from Honda’s separate H emblem. Acura’s name and logo were created for a premium marque rather than simply being a luxury trim label on Honda vehicles.

The emblem is often misidentified as a V, an A, or a pair of pliers. Those visual impressions come from its simplified geometric design, but the intended tool reference is a caliper.