Tap Wrench

[JayL]

Please recommend a good tap wrench.

I was looking at this.

GearWrench 82807 11pc Master Ratcheting Tap and Die Set

http://www.ebay.com/itm/330510299720?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649

I would be using it on the kit below. None the less if the above Gearwrench will work well then I would be happy. I don't know if there is a much better alternative.

NORSEMAN #SP-18TDM, METRIC TAP & DRILL SET, 18PCS

http://www.ebay.com/itm/120719336363?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649

Thanks

 

[woody 73]

I have that set and I like it, I buy most of the sets used although I bought the gearwrench set new. Strange but today I was in the lacal hardware store and I found a NOS die from belknap (bluegrass) They don't make them like that anymore all stamped not laser etched; Darn I bought a matco set and the rust has all but killed those ID numbers now I have to guess the sizes; (sorry for the rant).

 

[diesel research]

My question about ratcheting tap drivers. Since I was always taught to occassionally back the tap a partial turn and the forward then back (to break chips) how would this be accomplished with a ratcheting mechanism? Seems to defeat the purpose?

 

[jjjrmx5]

My question about ratcheting tap drivers. Since I was always taught to occassionally back the tap a partial turn and the forward then back (to break chips) how would this be accomplished with a ratcheting mechanism? Seems to defeat the purpose?

I've Used the German made ratcheting tap wrenches all day long for years in the fabricating and modding of heavily armored SUV's for the CIA, Secret Service, etc.

The ratcheting units have three settings, ratchet forward, ratchet reverse and a middle setting of stationary that allows you to load and tighten (and remove) the taps and do the fine partial turn delicate work you mention above with no ratcheting involved until you at least get the hole going or get your threads cleared out. Win-win as it does both jobs very well. (Just like a Snap-on ratcheting screwdriver does, which allows forward, reverse and then locks in the middle to allow use as a regular screwdriver)

I have the Blue Point set back when they sourced German made units (they are now Taiwan or ROC sourced) the German made units have served me well.

They also come with extensions for deep access that fit in the handle, but I also keep a set of Lisle tap sockets around for that where the sockets have a tight fitting rubber grommet that keep tap in place for deep well work.

You really need both types if you use taps a lot IMHO.

As for full tap/die sets. I recommend the Irwin sets but you really need a better handle and the sockets if used regularly.

EDIT: I suggest Schroder:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001DZ6YSS/?tag=atomicindus08-20

I have both the 1/4" and 1/2" and assume that is who supplied Blue Point with mine. For the price, they are not bank-busters and will last you a lifetime. Same ratchet system as the Yankee Screwdriver.

 

[JayL]

I wonder if the Gearwrench Tap wrenches have the lock position aside from the ratcheting actions.

 

[Jozmi]

I've used a set from Harbor Freight and a set from Irwin/Hanson. For the $$$ the hf set has been worth it and has served me well, but in terms of quality it isn't even close to the Hason set. If you dont mind spending the extra $$$ look into the Hanson.

Side note: I recently replaced a few taps in my HF set. Ordered the replacements from Mcmaster-carr, they sent me taps from GTD (greenfield tap and die). These have been some of the best taps I have ever used.

 

[jjjrmx5]

Side note: I recently replaced a few taps in my HF set. Ordered the replacements from Mcmaster-carr, they sent me taps from GTD (greenfield tap and die). These have been some of the best taps I have ever used.

I agree. Most anything you get out of Grainger or Mc-Master will do you well.

Since mainly required to buy US made tools, we normally source Brubaker or Morse Mfgr. made taps via a national wholesaler. Both USA made.
http://www.brubakertool.com/catalogs.asp

Good stuff.

 

[Kent Skinner]

My favorite is from McMaster. Although I don't remember the brand at the moment, McMaster only sells good stuff.

It looks like this:

If you are drilling & tapping on a mill or drill press, you put the guide in the chuck after drilling the hole. It keeps the wrench vertical, and aligned exactly over the hole. If you aren't on a drill press or mill, it acts like a normal tap handle.

Page 2519
Item #2550A65 (three sizes available)

 

[jjjrmx5]

I wonder if the Gearwrench Tap wrenches have the lock position aside from the ratcheting actions.

Based upon the ebay ad in ur OP, all I see are die-wrenches. I doubt those are
3-position ratcheting wing handles, but they may be. I use dies so little I;m happy with a good quality hand style die handle. Since taps often require a lot more spinning, that's where the ratchting help comes in.

They are not for everyone, but---again, if used in light mfgr or high volume work, they are the bee's knees.

 

[JayL]

I decided to try the Gearwrench set. Cripes price is the lowest I found.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/330510299720?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649

I don't use dies for now but just out of curiosity. Does this kit accept round dies too aside from the hex ones?

 

[Monte]

The Schroder set from Sears is good