Anyone use a tapping guide?

[Tractor Seabee]

Why aren't those drill bit/tap combos more common? I didn't know they even existed. No more looking up tap drill sizes! And then not having the EXACT numbered or lettered bit.

They are expensive and normally only used in machine tools like a mill. Machine tapping you have to be able to gear down from drilling speed.

Ron

 

[kennyd]

Why aren't those drill bit/tap combos more common? I didn't know they even existed. No more looking up tap drill sizes! And then not having the EXACT numbered or lettered bit.

Also they are generally only rated for thin material.

 

[crazyal]

I ordered the Brown&Sharp guide. The drill press is a 2hp 3/4" so using it to tap a hole with a small tap doesn't sound like it'd turn out pretty. I could remove one of the belts but I don't think that would save much time. I keep the belts pretty tight when I use hole saws so they don't slip. So either I would have to retension the belts each time or try to force it off then on.

 

[kennyd]

Good deal Al. I think it will work well for you.

 

[Ford850]

I'd love to have a hand tapping machine like this one at Grizzly, Hand Tapping Machine | Grizzly Industrial

 

[ddbackhoe]

A little late but one of these is handy also. Its actually two pieces with the top being removable.

 

[WranglerX]

Why aren't those drill bit/tap combos more common? I didn't know they even existed. No more looking up tap drill sizes! And then not having the EXACT numbered or lettered bit.

Didn't know they existed either....

combination drill tap - Google Search

Dale

 

[Big Barn]

Didn't know they existed either....

combination drill tap - Google Search

Dale

They’re slick. I’ve used them for installing LED clearance lights on semi trailer bodies.

 

[Big Barn]

I'd love to have a hand tapping machine like this one at Grizzly, Hand Tapping Machine | Grizzly Industrial

I have one. Craigslist. $50 Cdn.

 

[Ford850]

View attachment 588324


I have one. Craigslist. $50 Cdn.

Wow, that's a great deal and it looks new. I like your aluminum baking sheet too - great idea!