Abstract: Apparatus for inspecting bottles to determine if the bottle opening is properly aligned with its base whereby the bottle can be safely handled in automatic processing equipment. The apparatus includes a horizontal platform for positioning a bottle thereupon in an upright position, a frame mounted over the platform, a pair of carriages slidably suspended from the frame so as to move along independent paths of travel that are parallel with the horizontal platform but angularly offset in reference to each other, a probe supported in one of the carriages that is receivable in the bottle opening in contact with the inner wall thereof and means to detect the displacement between carriages as the bottle is rotated upon the platform.