Three dimensional (3D) optical measurement systems have seen ongoing development regards to both technologies and applications. While previously targeted primarily toward manufacturing and quality control environments significant benefits have been recognized for utilizing precision optical metrology systems across the oil and gas industry. Specific applications have developed in field and facility defect assessment and mapping NDE services failure analysis evidence preservation and forensic reconstruction.This paper presents recent work and research comparing 3D laser scanning technologies to traditional inspection techniques for mapping of corrosion dents and dent/gouge combinations. Included is a comparison study consisting of a typical corroded region of pipe comparing accuracy speed and data processing applications for traditional pit gauge measurements with those processed from a 3D laser scanner. Review and comparison of alternative techniques and technologies such as structured light and photogammetry also presented.