Tapmatic question

A taper tap, is also called a starter tap because it is used to start a thread, it has 7 to 10 incomplete threads and will work, but would not be my first choice for use in a tap-matic.

Your best choice for thru tapping is a spiral point plug tap with as few flutes as possible. Moly-Dee for tapping fluid.
 
Last edited:
Spalted said:
Salem I will keep that in mind and if I decide folders are not fun its yours. I am still not sure what kind of knives I want to make mostly, I have been trying a little bit of everything (hunters,kitchen knives, bowies...)to see what I like doing better and so far I have kind of been surprised, what I like making so far is what I thought I wouldnt like as much. I think folders are going to be for me but.....

I looked at the collets in the link count posted this morning and they were a different brand and my luck one would be 1/16 taller or something so
I ordered the collet from the link Fred posted and already have a tracking #
The ebay seller even offered to pay for half .... now to see if it works . At that price it is worth taking the chance I guess.

Now I just need to order a tapered tap and some titanium. This is the right kind of tap right? http://www.ebay.com/itm/280984278015?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649
Click to expand...

A taper tap is a hand tap, I'd order a spiral point machine tap

Pick one of these

http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INLMK32?PARTPG=INSRAR2

In that little size get more than one.

If you only have one, you're sure to break it.
 
I'd use thread forming taps on titanium, be sure to use the correct chart for thread forming taps. Balax taps are great...

Moly-Dee for fluid - I put mine in a spill proof container and use a flux brush to apply. A pint will last forever...

Crank the clutch all the way back then slowly crank it up until the tap works all the way.


There is a bit of a learning curve to the tapmatic but once you get it they are great to use!
 
Was just looking at screws and realized the tap I asked about is not even the right size. :o
I did order screws and titanium from alpha today , getting closer
 
I think that if you do make many folders, and this Tapmatic works after all, you will really love it. Hand tapping titanium just sucks IMO.
 
The collet came today. I threaded several holes in a piece of aluminum and it worked good. As soon as the UPS truck gets here I will try it on something real. THANKS
 
Awesome!

Like I was saying having seen and used a lot if these, it isn't uncommon to see ones that look like they were put in a giant garbage disposal, and still run strong. It should give you years of excellent service. Great snag!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top