Single start vs Triple start taps & dies

[Mike D]

In the discussions on kitless pen construction single and triple start taps and dies are mentioned but I haven't seen any discussion as to the differences between the two types.

I do know the triple start ones are considerably more expensive than the single start taps & dies.

Aside from the cost, what is the difference between the two?

Do the triple start ones create cleaner threads?

Is it that the triple start ones allow for easier alignment between the cap and body when grain or pattern alignment is important?

What are the pros and cons between the two types?

ETC ETC....

I believe this information may be helpful to those of us wanting to venture into the dark art of kitless pen construction.

Thanks in advance to you folks for sharing your knowledge!

 

[watch_art]

triple start - three leads are cut so the cap can be twisted on/off with fewer turns.

single start - one lead is cut so it might take more turns...

 

[chrisk]

A related thread here:http://www.penturners.org/forum/f56/triple-start-tap-dies-100802/

 

[Mike D]

Thanks so much for the info and the link. That clears up a lot of questions. As far as alignment that would depend on the length or depth of the thread cut, I should have known that but I had a brain fart on that one.

 

[Gilrock]

Bottom line is use a triple start cause all the cool kids are doing it....and if you can't afford one then start talking about percentages of the pattern lining up...lol.