Pipe Threader

[Threepoint]

OP, I've had the HF threading kit (1/2", 3/4" and 1" dies) for probably 20 years. Looks just like the one they sell today, although it came with a blow-molded case back then and cost around $35, as I recall. I got it to make a bunch of custom-sized woodworking clamps from 3/4" black pipe, using thread-on clamp kits (that HF also sells). I've also used it for 1/2" and 1" pipe from time to time. It's always worked fine for me.

 

[civilian]

Along with the advice of using oil while cutting threads, I found that threading about a half to one turn, then back the die off to break chips, then continue to cut some new threads, then break again. Jon

 

[grsthegreat]

You could rent an electric threader at most any rental yard. Beats the heck out of manual ones.

 

[spitter]

Don't know how much you need but you can buy a [ run] of pre threaded pipe nipples that goes from a close 1" - 6" in length every 1". Or buy pre threaded pipe online from supply house .com. Thats where I get my pp fittings and threaded nipples up to 4'.

 

[m1garand762]

If you know a local plumber see if you can run up to his shop and make a few threads when he is there. Obviously if you have never used him he probably won’t be ok with it but shops I have worked for have done this early in the morning or at lunch time

 

[roadpacker]

I have an old Armstrong pipe threader that I inherited from my FIL, it works great. It's also important to have a good pipe vise to hold the workpiece. For small diameter pipe a bench vise will work but for larger pipe a well anchored pipe vice makes life much easier.

Ebay usually has a multitude of used Ridgid ratchet hand dies and die heads that are excellent for small jobs.I recently bought a ratchet handle and 4 die heads with dies for $65.00 with free shipping.The die heads were 1/4,1/2,3/4 and 1 inch. Ridgid makes top notch threading tools that last a life time with heavy use.

 

[Little Red Tractor]

Ghost
Was size pipe are you wanting to thread? I have not used an HF threader but on smaller sizes I would think would work for your task. Main thing keep the dies well oiled while cutting the threads.

Doubling down on the advice to keep the dies oiled! Oil is cheap in the long run.

 

[suntreemcanic]

I just had a pipe threading project. I went to a used tool store. I found a nice quality hardly used Rigid thread die and ratcheting handle for $50. The tool store owner said he would buy it back for $25 when I am done. I felt like this was a good deal for both of us.

 

[spankyscamp]

I have used the HF set to do 1/2" black iron for natural gas pipe. Made about 20 threaded joints and also other jobs. Held pipe with a 24" pipe wrench on the floor with plenty of cutting oil. to this day there are no gas leaks.

 

[Richard]

Could you buy a used one......use it....then resell it?

I did that once with a pneumatic floor nailer/stapler. Wife went bonkers that I spent that much when we could have rented (blah blah blah).

I explained by buying, we can do the floors at OUR pace instead of having to rusn over weekend/whatever....

Did the floor.... went to sell it....and actually sold for more than what I paid for it. (but I'm SURE I didn't gloat about that back to the wife.....at least I think I'm sure)