A method of producing a probe device for a metrology instrument such as an AFM includes providing a substrate and forming a tip stock extending upwardly from the substrate. The tip stock is preferably FIB milled to form a tip of the probe device. The tip preferably has a high aspect ratio, with a height that is at least about 1 micron for performing critical dimension (e.g., deep trench) atomic force microscopy. The stock is preferably pedestal shaped having a distal end that is substantially planar which can be machined into a tip in at least less than about 2 minutes. With the preferred embodiments, the FIB milling step can be completed in substantially fewer and less complicated steps than known techniques to produce a high aspect ratio tip suitable for DT-AFM in less than about one minute.