tap & dies

[avbill]

i have been following the tread about kit less pen and started to research the taps & dies needed. CAn anyone with more experience educate me on the differences of the following.

a bottom tap
a plug tap
a taper tap

What is the more appropriate tool for threading pens?

thanks

bill

 

[BradG]

you would use a bottom tap for extending an existing thread. because it has no taper you cannot start a thread with it

a plug tap has a steep taper on it, so it will cut full depth threads after only a few turns

Taper taps are more gradual and are easier to keep the tap going in straight

As to which is better for pen turning, that would be a toss up between taper or plug. i personally prefer a plug tap, but youve got to keep your eye on the ball to make sure you put the tap in straight! ... the taper is a little more forgiving

Hope this helps

 

[workinforwood]

if buying a set, get one with plug and bottom tap both in the set. Start threads with plug tap, then use bottom tap to follow that up.