The Best Tap And Die Sets for 2021
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Best Tap And Die Set
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For this post, I have put together a collection of the best tap and die sets currently available.
UPDATED: June 21, 2021.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the GearWrench 3887 Set because it features the Twist Lock Guide System to reduce backwalk, a ratcheting T-wrench, and carbon steel construction.
These simple yet versatile tools are used to create the common nut and bolt pair. The tap is used to cut the inner thread of the nut and the die is used to cut the outer thread of the bolt.
Using the included T-Handle, threads are formed by cutting (tapping) into the hole that forms the bolt and cutting (threading) the round steel stock for the bolt. Typically, to reduce movement while working, the pieces are held securely in place by using a bench vise.
Some things to look out for when selecting a set:
SAE vs. Metric
Many sets offer both SAE and Metric taps and dies to allow for a range of projects. However, if you know you will not require one or the other it can be a way to reduce the cost. By only buying essentially half of the equipment by going with just an SAE set, for example.
Steel vs. Titanium
The most common materials these tools are constructed from are high carbon steel, titanium, or some combination of the two. The hybrid design allows for the titanium to just be used on the cutting edges since titanium retains sharpness longer than steel edges. This helps to maximize the use while minimizing the cost of construction. Tungsten alloy is another common material, which is used for its extreme hardness.
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For a quick beginners overview, check out this video that explains the basics:
The following tap and die sets use the latest innovative components to meet your needs and help to ensure you do your best work.
So here is my list of The Best Tap And Die Sets for 2021.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: GearWrench 3887 75 Piece Tap And Die Set
The 75-piece GearWrench 3887 tap and die set features the Twist Lock Guide System that reduces backwalk of the die guide and keeps dies centered while thread cutting.
Equipped with a ratcheting T-wrench that provides a 5-degree arc.
Includes an auto-lock that allows the tap adapter to be safely removed.
Features a reversible lever so that it does not require hand over hand turning.
Constructed from carbon steel.
Includes a case for easy storage and transport.
Best for Professionals: Irwin Tools 117 Piece 26377 Tap And Die Set
The IRWIN HANSON tap and die set is equipped with a range of tap, hex die, and drill bits for a range of applications.
Designed to work on a wide array of materials requiring hand-threading.
Features high carbon steel construction for strength and precision.
Includes a set of high speed steel drill bits for pairing with the taps.
Includes a convenient storage case.
Best Compact Set: Neiko 00916A Titanium Tap And Die Set
The Neiko 00916A features titanium cutting edges that retain sharpness longer than steel edges.
Non-cutting edge components are constructed from professional grade steel.
Includes T-handle tap wrenches and adjustable die wrench.
Features a screwdriver and thread pitch gauge.
Includes a case for easy storage and organization.
Best for Durability: GearWrench 114 Piece 82812 Tap And Die Set
The GearWrench 114-piece set is the larger version of the GearWrench 75-piece set for more versatility.
Equipped with extension adapters and ratcheting T-handles
Offers the ability to extend by combining adapters and any 3/8 drive extension.
Features the Twist Lock Guide System to reduce backwalk.
Features tap holders that tilt down for easy access.
Works with round and hex shaped dies.
Includes 4-40 to 3/4 and 3 to 18mm sizes.
Includes a handy storage case for organization.
Best Value: ABN 60 Piece Tap And Die Set
The ABN 60 Piece set offers the ability to either cut or renew external and internal threads.
Constructed from hardened alloy steel.
Features coarse and fine threaded and numbered taps and dies from #4 - 40 to #12 – 24.
Includes inperial taps and dies from 1/4" - 28 to 1/2" - 20, 1/8".
Includes metric tap and dies from M3 x .5 to M12 x 1.75.
Designed to cut a range of materials including copper, cast iron, steel, and aluminum.
Comes with a molded storage case.
Best Tungsten Steel Option: 86 Piece Tap And Die Set
This Tungsten 86 Piece set features heat-treated tungsten steel construction.
Features ground and polished surfaces to facilitate chip removal.
Equipped with tapered plug taps and dies for common uses.
Designed for cutting new threads or chasing existing threads.
Includes a convenient case for storage and transport.
Neiko 00908A 76 Piece Tap And Die Set
The Neiko 00908A set is constructed with a steel alloy steel for strength without brittleness.
Equipped with titanium-brazed coating for long-lasting sharpness.
Equipped with 20 common Imperial and Metric sizes.
Includes a T-handle tap wrench along with a die adapter and set screwdriver.
Include an adjustable tap handle wrench and die-stock handle wrench.
Comes with a die size-adapter.
Best Budget Option: EFFICERE 40 Piece Tap And Die Set
The EFFICERE 40-Piece set is designed cut new threads or renew existing threads.
Constructed from GCr15 bearing steel for long-lasting durability.
Equipped CNC machined cutting teeth.
Features heat treated steel to 60 HRC Rockwell hardness.
Features a tapered design on the tap and dies to reduce over threading and makes starting easier.
Works on a range of materials including stainless steel, carbon steel, cast iron, copper, aluminum, and brass.
TEKTON 7560 45 Piece Tap And Die Set
The TEKTON 7560 set is constructed from tungsten alloy high speed steel.
Features 20 taps and 20 dies from coarse to fine in sizes from 1/4 inch to 1 inch.
Equipped with tapered plug taps and dies for use on a range of threading applications.
Designed to cut a range of materials including stainless steel, mild carbon steel, alloy steel, cast iron, bronze, aluminum, and brass.
I hope this list of the best tap and die sets was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
