Irwin Tap and Die set

HaroRider · Sep 27, 2015

Hey guys, I am looking into investing in a good tap and die set, however I don't know what would be needed or what is just over kill. I want an all metric set and these are three I see on Irwins site.

http://www.irwin.com/tools/taps-dies-sets/66-pc-metric-tap-hex-die-set

http://www.irwin.com/tools/taps-dies-sets/53-pc-metric-tap-hex-die-set

http://www.irwin.com/tools/taps-dies-sets/41-pc-metric-tap-hex-die-set

I don't mind spending the money, but just strictly working on cars and light trucks what set would make the most sense to buy?

It seems that the 66 piece is a bit over kill, however would the 41 piece be sufficient?

Thanks guys

Mikerodrig27 · Sep 27, 2015

I used a 1/2" Irwin tap to tap into hardened steel forks on a large fork truck. It lasted as good as any others that I used. I'd go for the 66pc set as you are most likely going need the one tap or die that doesn't come in the other sets.

RV77 · Sep 27, 2015

I have the 66 piece set bought from amazon...( also gave a review ) and it has very large metrics but I work on cars - heavy equipment.As your link shows it also comes with the smaller metric set as I feel this is the best bang for the buck.

David C · Sep 27, 2015

I recently bought the first set on your list. The taps and dies are not mfg. from HSS, if that matters to you.

woody 73 · Sep 27, 2015

I would think if the set was made out of HSS the average Joe could not afford to buy it. The smallest set would get the most use but if you were working on large items the 66pc. set would be your best bet.

dodge610 · Sep 27, 2015

Just looked it up you can get the 107 piece set at sears for around $270.00. And that should cover every need that might arise.

HaroRider · Sep 27, 2015

dodge610 said:
Just looked it up you can get the 107 piece set at sears for around $270.00. And that should cover every need that might arise.

I really don't need any SAE as I have them already, however is that an Irwin rebrand set, I don't see any Irwin sets that compare to that one?

MattVette89 · Sep 27, 2015

I've had limited use for taps working on cars. I bought the individual sizes I've needed. A rethreader set is a good investment for working on cars if you don't already have one.

http://m.craftsman.com/craftsman-40-pc-tap-and-die-set-master/p-00952105000P

dodge610 · Sep 27, 2015

Not sure but I have never seen any metric only sets maybe I am just not looking in the wrong place. Most of the sets I have seen are combo sets. I am not a pro by any means just lookin to save you a buck. I have always said right about the time you say I dont need that the need arises.

HaroRider · Sep 27, 2015

MattVette89 said:
I've had limited use for taps working on cars. I bought the individual sizes I've needed. A rethreader set is a good investment for working on cars if you don't already have one.

http://m.craftsman.com/craftsman-40-pc-tap-and-die-set-master/p-00952105000P

I have a Snap On thread chaser kit that I got for a decent price. They are nice, but they really only clean, not cut.

I think I may just go with the 41 piece and fill in as needed..yes inconvenient to do so, but makes the most sense economically

Irwin Tap and Die set

HaroRider

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Mikerodrig27

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RV77

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David C

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woody 73

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dodge610

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HaroRider

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MattVette89

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dodge610

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HaroRider

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