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Checked and updated on February 17, 2021 by Aaron Barnett
Have you ever wondered how you can make your own threaded rod, and custom bolts and nuts? See, the beauty of a tap and die hardware is that they basically turn you into a tool-smith – certain tools allow you to make others, reducing the need to buy them. Most people start their own hardware business this way.
Today, our spotlight is on Tap and Die sets. Often called a ‘mating pair’, the two components allow you to thread your own bolts and screws.
Make sure to get the right-sized HSS set for you. Either SAE or Metric.
Best tap and die set
#1 Strongest SAE tap and die set
Greenfield 420361 26 pieces, SAE, HSS/ carbon steel, tap and die set
- This Greenfield tap-and-die set features HSS taps and carbon steel dies.
- Made from durable (HSS) material.
- Ideal for creating wear-resistant internal threads.
- Relatively small for the price. (Doesn’t include metric sizes).
#2 Best metric tap and die set
Greenfield 420368 18 pieces, metric, HSS/ carbon steel, tap and die set
- Metric-only counterpart of the 420361.
- Same HSS taps and carbon steel die combination.
- Has the fewest pieces.
#3 Best value HSS tap and die set
Tekton 7560 45 pieces, SAE, HSS, tap, and die set
- Hardened tungsten alloy steel material.
- An HSS tap and die set featuring 20 tapered plug taps and 20 split dies.
- Die stock and tap handle designs can be improved.
#4 Alloy SAE andmetric tap and die set
Matco 675TD 75 pieces, SAE/ metric, alloy steel, tap and die set
- Wide assortment of fractional SAE and metric pieces at 75.
- Good choice for an initial mastery kit.
- This Matco tap and die set is the most expensive set on the list.
- Does not include a tap wrench.
#5 Titanium SAE tap and dies
Neiko 00916A 45 pieces, SAE, alloy steel, tap and die set
- Titanium constructed set.
- Sports a well-organized, heavy-duty container.
- Reported to struggle against material harder than aluminum.
#6 Most affordable tap and die set
Efficere 60 pieces, SAE/metric, alloy steel, tap and die set
- Good sized set with SAE and metric sizes.
- Allows for coarse and fine threading.
- The T-wrench and die holder have questionable durability.
#7 A low-cost titanium tap and dies
Vector tools 80 pieces, SAE/ metric, alloy steel, tap and die set
- Titanium coated finish for added protection against corrosion.
- Particularly affordable for a large 80-pc set.
- Some parts can sometimes be either missing or doubled.
#8 Best Neiko SAE/metric rethreading kit
Neiko 00908A 76 pieces, SAE/ metric, alloy steel, tap and die set
- Affordable pro-grade 76pc SAE and metric set.
- Strong alloy construction.
- The case is not the most sturdy.
#9 Largest alloy steel tap and die set
Mostbest 110 pieces, SAE/ metric, alloy steel, tap and die set
- 1 of 2 sets here with the most number of taps.
- A vast array of pieces makes it good for wide applications.
- Runs the risk of some kits repeating a piece whilst missing another.
#10 Largest titanium coated taps and dies
Muzerdo 86 pieces, SAE/ metric, tungsten steel, tap and die set
- Made from high-carbon steel coated with chromium.
- An 86pc SAE and metric set with improved versatility.
- The Interior layout of the case makes it hard to reach the lower tray.
#11 Best tungsten steel rethreading kit
Muzerdo 110 pieces, SAE/ metric, tungsten steel, tap and die set
- 2nd set with the most number of taps.
- Muzerdo’s version of the “Most-best” set with a metal case.
- Can be difficult to read the piece labels.
#12 Another low-cost tungsten steel rethreading kit
Metart 86 pieces, SAE/ metric, tungsten steel, tap and die set
- Durable tungsten-made set.
- Versatile, high-performance pieces with adjustable T-wrench.
- Sometimes, the taps included are soft.
#13 A premium Irwin tap and die set
Irwin Tools 26377 117 pieces, SAE/ metric, carbon steel, tap and die set
- This is the largest set with 117 pieces.
- Ideal for professional work as it includes the most basic and common components.
- The case design has difficulty keeping pieces in place.
#14 A carbon steel tap and die set
Irwin Tools 26376 76 pieces, SAE/ metric, carbon steel, tap and die set
- This Irwin tap and die set is a great value for a large set.
- Designed for use with machining and auto-repair.
- Piece quality-control can use improvement.
#15 Most comprehensive set with wrenches
Gearwrench 82812 114 pieces, SAE/ metric, carbon steel, tap and die set
- This set has the most dies and includes 3 tap wrenches.
- Features auto-locking and twist guide systems for ease of use.
- Reported to have some kits with inconsistent quality pieces.
#16 Quick-release tap adapter system
Gearwrench 3887 75 pieces, SAE/ metric, carbon steel, tap and die set
- A smaller variant of the Gearwrench 82812.
- This Gearwrench tap and die set features a quick-release system of the large tap adapter.
- Cannot go beyond ½”: sized materials.
#17 The Craftsman tap and die set
Craftsman 75 pieces, SAE/ metric, carbon steel, tap and die set
- Features carbon steel construction with a rust-resistant satin finish.
- Sizing is not engraved.
#18 Most comprehensive metric tap and die set
ABN 110 pieces, metric, carbon steel, tap and die set
- 110pc chromium-coated metric tap and die set in a heavy-duty container.
- Large set, but limited to metric only.
#19 Good value Irwin tap and die set
Irwin Tools 97311 25 pieces, metric, carbon steel, Hanson tap and die set
- Good choice for a small set.
- 25 pieces.
- Limited application; metric only.
#20 Tap and die set for DIY
Craftsman 39 pieces, SAE, carbon steel, tap and die set
- 39pc SAE variant of the Irwin 97311.
- Less effective for more than casual work.
#21 Budget-friendly carbon steel rethreading tool
Orion Motor Tech 80 pieces, SAE/metric, carbon steel, tap and die set
- Large 80pc SAE and metric set.
- Color-coded cases for SAE and metric pieces.
- Dies are not as consistent as the taps.
Introduction
Taps and dies were used in metalworking in the early 18th and 19th centuries. The tool was used to create screw threads for nuts and bolts that were to be used with other machinery.
Joseph Clement was a renowned British engineer and one of the early vendors of taps and dies. The onset of machine milling in the 1860s gradually made the process of threading faster and easier. Yet, not all can afford an industrial-grade milling machine for just a simple job. Especially for small business owners and your average project-dabbler, a classic manual tap and die set is irreplaceable.
Today, we’ll be looking at the best tap and die sets around.
Features to consider with a tap and die set
- Build quality. Build quality refers to the correlation between material construction and price. An expensive set should also be of exceptional and quality steel (made from HSS).
- Sizes. You’d want to go with a versatile set that covers both SAE and metric sizes. A good-sized set is one that has at least 30 pieces.
- Handle. Since these are manual tools, a comfortable handle is key if you want the best results or if you need to work for longer periods.
- Casing and storage. Taps and dies often come with many varying pieces. You’d want a light yet strong case that can neatly store all the components while keeping them protected.
Reasons to buy a tap and die set
- Versatility. Tap and die sets can either be for woodworking or metalworking. A metalworking set is very comprehensive and can cater to varying-sized material depending on the number of pieces a particular set has. There are also different types of taps and dies that further complement the tool’s range of applications. More of these in detail at a later section.
- Precision. As stated before, a set has two-component or ‘mating’ parts. The tap, used for tapping, is good for speed, while the die, used for threading, to thread both a male and female end. Despite being a manual tool, the tap and die are appreciated by engineers with an eye for detail.
Before you buy a tap and die set
Know your brands.
It’s important to know which brands have a good track record with tap and die sets. Especially if you’re looking for one to use for your metalwork, an established brand is more likely to deliver a durable and high-quality product. Names like Greenfield, Neiko, and Muzerdo have both the credibility and experience to ensure you an investment-worthy set.
Check the durability.
You’d want to look for a set that’s made of high-end steel. Since you’ll be using it to also work with metal, durability will play an important part as it is one factor that could spell either an extra expense or additional savings in terms of use and longevity.
Consider the size.
A set of 100 pieces that cover both SAE and metric sizes is more versatile than even a similar-numbered set that only covers either of the two. While you should go for whichever is more versatile, also consider which sized set is more suited to your needs, such as the scale and frequency of your projects.
Check the included wrenches.
A rethreading kit is not a set without the wrenches. A normal set would have a tap wrench and a die handle but it’s best to have a T-wrench included in the set.
Think about the size.
You should always consider the price. In the case of tap and die sets, more pieces equates to higher prices, but that’s not a constant. When considering the price, also base it on your needs, as well as the brand name. The more casual the work, the lower the acceptable price range, otherwise, invest in the more premium ones.
What’s the difference between a tap and a die?
A tap and die essentially makes screw threads.
The tap is often associated as being the ‘female’ component and is used to make threads for the bolts and thread to fit into. The process of creating threads in material with a tap is called ‘tapping’.
A die is associated as being the ‘male’ component and is the one used when making screws or creating threads along with a material that functions as a screw/nut/bolt. Using a die to create threads is called ‘threading.
Just like any other metalwork such as engraving or carving, you can say tapping and threading is a work of precision art. They both require an eye for detail.
How to use a tap and die?
So, you probably want to know how to tap and thread by now, right? Here’s how:
- Determine 1st the number of threads per inch (TPI) using the gauge system that comes included with your set. Once this is good, use the corresponding die to begin threading.
- Use a tapered die to determine which side to start.
- Set your chosen die on the guide wrench and begin to slowly turn to start cutting. It’s advisable to use cutting oil or similar lubricants when cutting metal to reduce friction and heat.
- Select the appropriate-sized tap to thread the hole for your screws. Use in the same manner as you did the die. Still use cutting oil if possible.
Another related piece of equipment, you might also want to look into is a Dremel rotary tool. fitted with engraver and deburring bits. For doing extra bits of detail cutting and fine sanding.
Types of taps and dies
Don’t get confused with the different pieces you’ll find in your rethreading tool kit. Taps and dies are different.
Taps
Taper taps are often used for initial threading because their ends taper to a smaller diameter that’s easier for starting threads.
Plug taps are more the middle-ground between taper taps and finishing taps and are pretty common.
Finishing taps are best for finishing threads as they can cut completely until the bottom of the hole.
Dies
Die nuts are more of a refining tool as they can sharpen existing threads, but cannot make new ones.
Circular dies are the most common and come included in almost every set. Circular dies cut threads on exteriors.
Split circular dies are versatile circular dies that can either be split in half or have just a single split. These are able to take on larger material and can cut subsequently deeper from a shallow, initial pass.
How to choose the right material for taps and dies?
Tap and die sets are made from various kinds of steel; each with a different degree of threading efficiency depending on the material. You’d generally want to go with the best HSS tap and die sets that are capable of handling tougher material as these will most certainly work with softer ones, saving you time and effort.
- HSS. Known as high-speed steel, these high-alloy steels are ideal for cutting material as they have high breaking-points, cut fast, and can withstand high temperatures.
- Carbon steel. Carbon steel is a common and highly recyclable type of alloy. It’s durable and highly resistant, making it one of the longer-lived types of materials.
- Alloy steel. Alloy steel is even more durable than carbon steel. Alloy steel can be hardened to a higher degree and is better at withstanding high temperatures and distortions.
- HCS. Known as high carbon steel, a 0.55% carbon content makes these extremely hard and durable. Mainly used for cutting, HSS is known to retain edge-sharpness even when under constant stress.
- Cobalt. Cobalt is used to be alloyed with other metals, improving hardness, strength, and wear resistance. Cobalt is good for adding abrasiveness and greatly improving heat resistance.
- Titanium. Titanium has great longevity given its natural resistance to corrosion. It also has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any metal but is relatively less effective at high temperatures.
Why HSS is the strongest?
High-speed steel is rather flexible, able to be combined with other alloys to attain an even greater range of application. As mentioned above, most cutting-tools utilize HSS and, as such, are able to perform better and faster.
In addition to being low-cost, HSS is very durable, being both tough and strong, making it perfect for threading as it can fare well even against a harder material. Highly heat resistance allows you to also take on more demanding and work-intensive projects.
In fact, HSS is so versatile that it can probably fit into most of the metalworks.
Choosing the best tap and die set
#1 Best SAE tap and die set
The overall best has to be Greenfield 420361. Despite the small number of pieces, the combination of HSS taps and carbon steel dies well makes up for it by giving you performance, longevity, and efficiency.
The HSS taps provide you with good wear resistance when creating internal threads, while the carbon steel dies to provide you with a more economical choice for threading external material.
As a plug tap, the Greenfield is also versatile, allowing you to do initial threads and fine-tuned refinements with ease. Despite it being SAE only, we can’t recommend anything better.
If you also need metric and want to stick with HSS quality, pair it with this.
Best value SAE tap and die set
The best value set goes to the Tekton 7560 for its balance of size and cost. Much like the Greenfield, the Tekton tap and die set covers SAE, but bolters a bigger number of pieces at a total of 45.
With 20 taps and 20 split dies and a 1½ inch die stock adapter, this relatively modest-sized set comes in handy for light to medium applications and can cover most standard thread sizes.
Best value SAE and metric tap and die set
If you’re looking for affordability and both a metric and SAE set, look no further than the Efficere 60. This good-sized set is a good pick for those just starting out or those who are in need of a casual work set. The Efficere 60 features both SAE and metric sizes and can make both coarse and fine threads.
It has 20 metric taps and dies and a 20:12 ratio of SAE fractional taps and dies for coarse and fine threading respectively.
Accessories and their role in hand tapping
All the sets mentioned here are hand taps, meaning that they are all operated manually. There is no automation involved, as such, certain accessories play a vital role in getting work done and are essential parts of any fully-functional tap and die set.
For even better form, you might want to see what this power metal shaper, polisher, or sharpener can do in your workshop, for forst creating fine sharp edges before getting threaded.
Tap wrench
Essentially a compact, T-shaped handle that’s used to turn the tap or other small tools. The tap wrench has a very basic design but seems to also be the most efficient when it comes to manual turning.
Of all the wrenches that should be included in a set, this would be the best.
Die wrench
The die wrench works as a handle for turning die, they are basically the ones responsible for creating the threads. A die wrench can either have a built-in die or have a hole that’s specifically shaped for certain dies.
T-wrench
A multipurpose and often elongated variant of a tap wrench. Both share the same T-shaped appearance, but a T-wrench can work with more than just taps and can be used for applications outside threading.
Pitch gauge
Also known as a thread gauge, these tools measure the pitch or lead of a screw thread. A pitch gauge is what you’ll need in order to determine the thread TPI and select the appropriate tap and die size for the job.
Die stock
Nothing does a better job at creating uniformed threads on various materials than a die stock. A die stock gives you a guide or framework and allows you to position the die with precision.
Drill bits
Not included but before you thread you need to first drill the pilot hole. Here’s what you need to know to make sure you have the right-sized and quality drill bits for metal.
Can you use a tap and die set for making wooden bolts & nuts?
Yes. You can definitely use a set to custom-make your own wooden bolts and nuts, although there is specific woodworking tap and die sets that are specifically designed to make working with wood faster and easier.
Tips for using tap and die sets
Do’s
- Do determine the most appropriate sized set for your needs.
- Do identify which taps and dies are right for the work needed.
- Do make use of the correct accessories to ensure quality control of results.
Don’ts
- Don’t use a set that’s not compatible with whatever size you are working on (E.G SAE for metric).
- Don’t simply use a larger tap or die than what you actually need as this can result in loose fits.
- Don’t simply compromise if you do not have the proper accessories; determine which tool is the best alternative and won’t cause damage to your set and/or project.
Safety concerns
- Since you will be working with metal, it’s important to wear eye protection when working. Doing so will protect you from any potential risks of metal shavings.
- Wear gloves and always be mindful of where your hand is placed when working as these can potentially cause injury.
Comparing tap and die sets
Greenfield 420361 | Greenfield 420368 | Tekton 7560 | Matco 675TD | Neiko 00916A | Efficere 60 pieces | Vector tools | Neiko 00908A | Mostbest | Muzerdo 86 | Muzerdo 110 | Metart | Irwin Tools 26377 | Irwin Tools 26376 | Gearwrench 82812 | Gearwrench 3887 | Craftsman 52377 | ABN | Irwin Tools Hanson 97311 | Craftsman 52382 | Orion Motor Tech | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Verdict: | Best tap and set | Best value rethreading kit | Most affordable | ||||||||||||||||||
Total pieces in the kit | 26 pcs | 18 pcs | 45 pcs | 75 pcs | 45 pcs | 60 pcs | 80 pcs | 76 pcs | 110 pcs | 86 pcs | 110 pcs | 86 pcs | 117 pcs | 76 pcs | 114 pcs | 75 pcs | 75 pcs | 110 pcs | 25 pcs | 39 pcs | 80 pcs |
Material: | HSS/Carbon steel | HSS/Carbon steel | HSS | Alloy steel | Alloy steel | Alloy steel | Alloy steel | Alloy steel | Alloy steel | Tungsten steel (High carbon steel) | Tungsten steel (High carbon steel) | Tungsten steel (High carbon steel) | Carbon steel | Carbon steel | Carbon steel | Carbon steel | Carbon steel | Carbon steel | Carbon steel | Carbon steel | Carbon steel |
Number of taps: | 11 pcs | 5 pcs | 20 pcs | 34 pcs | 20 pcs | 27 pcs | 34 pcs | 34 pcs | 70 pcs | 39 pcs | 70 pcs | 39 pcs | 34 pcs | 34 pcs | 48 pcs | 34 pcs | 34 pcs | 70 pcs | 11 pcs | 17 pcs | 34 pcs |
Number of dies: | 11 pcs | 5 pcs | 20 pcs | 34 pcs | 20 pcs | 27 pcs | 34 pcs | 34 pcs | 35 pcs | 39 pcs | 35 pcs | 39 pcs | 34 pcs | 34 pcs | 48 pcs | 34 pcs | 34 pcs | 35 pcs | 10 pcs | 17 pcs | 34 pcs |
Sizes: | SAE | Metric | SAE | SAE/metric | SAE | SAE/metric | SAE/metric | SAE/metric | SAE/metric | SAE/metric | SAE/metric | SAE/metric | SAE/metric | SAE/metric | SAE/metric | SAE/metric | SAE/metric | Metric | Metric | SAE | SAE/metric |
Tap wrench: | 0 | 0 | 1 pc | 0 | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 2 pcs | 2 pcs | 2 pcs | 2 pcs | 2 pcs | 2 pcs | 3 pcs | 3 pcs | 1 pc | 2 pcs | 1 pc | 1 pc | 2 pcs |
Die wrench: | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 2 pcs | 2 pcs | 2 pcs | 0 | 1 pc | 2 pcs | 2 pcs | 1 pc | 2 pcs | 2 pcs | 0 | 2 pcs |
T-wrench: | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 2 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 1 pc | 2 pcs | 2 pcs | 2 pcs | 1 pc | 0 | 1 pc | 2 pcs |
Conclusion
The best tap and die set is the Greenfield 420361 with its durable and versatile HSS/carbon steel tap and die combination. Though it only covers SAE sizes, the small piece count makes it easy to manage and allows you to really focus on quality job completion.
If you’re after the best value, then the Tekton 7560 is your man. It’s a good-sized set and the split dies to give you a good amount of flexibility with your threading options.
Looking for both a metric and SAE set in an affordable kit? Then the Efficere 60 should be right up your alley; its highly assorted 60-piece kit allows for coarse and fine threading and is also for both SAE and metric sizes.
So, ready to tap out? If yes, then do remember these sets as they are among the best the market has to offer. We hope you had a fun read with this and we’ll see you in the next one!
Greenfield 420361 review
Pros:
- Strongest taps and dies made from HSS.
- Best for quality internal threading.
Cons:
- Not metric (You need to pair it with the Greenfield 420368 for metric sizes).
#1 Best tap and die set
More information:
- Early vendor of taps and dies published on https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tap_and_die
- What is a pitch gauge? retrieved from https://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/Pitch+Gauge
My name is Aaron, and welcome to Bangingtoolbox.
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