10 Best Tap and Die Set Reviews in 2020 – Buying Guide

You’re reading this because you are looking for the best tap and die set for the money.

Cheers! This tap and die set review article is for you.

And if you are a die-hard tool man, a weekend enthusiast or even a newbie in the tool shed, you probably know that sometimes, screws and nuts just do not fit properly! That’s why it really helps if you can make your own screws that will fit old or nonstandard equipment. And to make your own screws, you need tapping tool.

Best Tap and Die Sets Reviews in 2020

 

1. GearWrench 3887 – Best Quality Tap and Die Set

 
For our first pick, we want to introduce you to a midsize set that is very affordable, yet performs well and gets the job done. It is the 3887 tap and die set from GearWrench, and it is absolutely perfect for our readers who are looking for a set that offers a lot of flexibility in making your own screws!

The GearWrench 3887 consists of 75 tools. This includes 34 taps and 34 dies, a ratcheting “T” wrench, an SAE and metric screw pitch gauge, a #5 screwdriver, adapters (small, medium, and tap), and a sliding T for the adapters. That’s enough tools to give you a lot of choices and flexibility with just this set!

The material that the set are made of is carbon steel. They are strong enough to make threads and force their way through light to medium steel, and a good handful of hard surfaces as well.

A few features really stand out from the rest in this set. First of all, it uses a patented twist lick guide system which reduces back walking by the die guide. It also features an auto-lock mechanism which ensures that the tap adapter can be removed safely.

The reversible lever makes it faster and easier to use the tools. Needleless to say, this set is pretty easy and comfortable to use.

One thing we like about this set is the storage case it comes in. the case is hard and durable. But what we like most about it is that hold every single tool in place securely. You have tools in both SAE and metric sizes, giving you plenty of options.

 

2. GINO Development 02-0554 – Best Tap and Die Set for The Money

 
Next, on our list, we have a very good tap and die set which is a little smaller and more basic that the previous kit. It’s the 02-0554 TruePOwer Alloy Steel Set from GINO Developments.

This is a pretty standard and basic tap and die set. It is nothing over the top, and is furthermore the price is a steal if you are on a tight budget.

It consists of 60 pieces of tap and die tools, and includes a thread gauge for accurate measurements, a tap handle to hold the bit in place, a die handle, and finally, a tap chuck.

The taps and dies, and the other accessories too, are made of hardened alloy steel, which we think is strong enough and durable enough to handle most light-duty jobs around the house or job site.

You also get a molded carrying case so the tools won’t get lost, and it makes it easy to transport the taps and dies.

A very convenient and useful feature on this GINO 02-0554 set is that the tap and die sizes are both SAE and metric. This means you get the best of both worlds. Set includes coarse and fine threads with the sizes stamped on the individual taps and dies from #4 – 40 to #12 – 24 and fractional taps and dies from 1/4″ – 28 to 1/2″ – 20, 1/8″ – 27 NPT tap and die, plus metric tap and dies from M3 x .5 to M12 x 1.75.

 

3. TEKTON 7561 – Best Metric Tap and Die Set

 
Finding high quality tap and die sets from good brands can be a tough job, but we found one for you. We are talking about the TEKTON 756.

This et offers you a total 45 pieces including taps and dies, a1/4″ T-handle tap wrench, a¼” – 1″ inch T-handle tap wrench, a 2″ T-handle die stock, a 11/2″ die stock adapter and a screwdriver.

As for the number of taps and dies, you get 20 taps and 20 split dies, with 10 coarse threads and 10 fine threads. Mind you, they are all  3-, 4-, 5-, and 6-flute plug taps and dies and their sizing is in the metric system, so you can use them for hand threading.

Each and every tool in the 7561 set is made from hardened tungsten alloy high speed steel. This makes them perfect for use on mild carbon steel, steel alloys, stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum, brass, and bronze. This is a tough, heavy-duty set!

Everything comes nicely packed and organized inside the TEKTON standard hard case. You will also be happy to know that their support staff is located in the USA, in Michigan.

 

4. Neiko 00908A – Best Cheap Tap and Die Set

 
The next pick on our list of the tap and die sets is the 76 piece Neiko 00908A SAE and Metric set from the very popular and very renowned brand Neiko.

Inside the hard plastic carrying and storage case are 34 taps and 34 dies. The set also comes with a 2piece screwdriver pitch gauge, a screwdriver, 2 T- type tap wrenches in 1/4″ and 1/2″ sizes, a die adapter, a die-stock handle wrench, an adjustable tap handle wrench, a set screw driver and a die size adapter.

You get 34 pieces of each in the most commonly used sizes which will easily cover you through a vast range of jobs. They are shown in both SAE and Metric for convenience.

Each element is made from durable alloy steel with a titanium-brazed coating. The set is capable of working its way through many different types of medium to hard surfaces. Everything you see comes nicely tucked inside a hard plastic carrying case.

5. IRWIN 26377 – Best HSS Tap and Die Set

 
The IRWIN 26377 features 117 tools, including machine screw, fractional and metric plug type taps and hex dies, spiral screw extractors, high-speed steel drill bits, and a plastic case.

Yes, you saw that right. You get 36 high-speed steel drill bits in this set too. Your work will be easier than ever!

As for quantity, the set gives you 6 machine screw taps and 6 dies, 10 SAE taps and 10 dies, 16 metric taps and 16 metric dies, 2 pipe taps and 2 pipe dies, including all the tap and die drive tools that you will need.

Since you get both SAE and Metric you are likely to have the size you need for any household or light construction project.

Finally, everything thing comes nicely packed inside the IRWIN plastic storage case.

 

6. Craftsman 75 pc Inch & Metric tap and die Set

 
Craftsman makes some of the most popular and budget-friendly tools on the market. The Craftsman set consists of 75 pieces of tools, including 7 drive tools with accessories, 17 inch plug taps, 17 inch hex dies, 17 metric plug taps, 17 metric hex dies and a sturdy storage case with a handle

Now, let’s get to the material of the tools. Each and every element in the set in made of strong, durable carbon steel, and these guys can therefore thread through most soft to medium surfaces.

Sizes are in both inches and metric, so you shouldn’t have much trouble navigating your way around this set either.

You will furthermore enjoy the Craftsman tap and die set since it comes inside a very neat, carrying case with the tools organized in 4 indexed compartments.

 

7. IRWIN Tools 76 Piece Machine Screw/Fractional/Metric Tap and Hex Die Super Set

 
The Irwin26376 Tap and Hex Die Set is from the very popular IRWIN tool brand. This is one of the best tap and die set for mechanics to repair auto and lightweight machinery.

The 26376 set consists of 76 tools in total, with machine screw plug taps and 5/8″ hexagon dies, fractional plug taps and 1″ hexagon dies, metric plug taps and 5/8″ hexagon dies, and metric plug taps and 1″ hexagon dies.

As for add-ons and accessories, there is an adjustable die stock – 1″ dies, a plain die stock, 5/8″ hexagon dies, an adjustable handle tap wrench – taps no. 0 to 1/2″, a two-in-one tap wrench, taps 1/4″ to 1/2″, t-handle wrench – taps no. 0 to 1/4″, a 16 leaf metric thread pitch gauge, and an 18 leaf standard thread pitch gauge.

Each tap and die is made from high-carbon steel so this set is pretty durable as well. Needless to say, you are pretty much ready for war with the IRWIN Tools Tap and Hex Die Set 26376!

And next, what’s really unique about the IRWIN Tools Tap and Hex Die Set 26376 is its storage case. It’s all convenient and adhesive and all, but what has out attention is that it has this sneaky little cabinet which opens up.

 

8. TEKTON 7559 Tap and Die Set – 39 Piece, Metric, High Quality Milled Alloy

 
We have previously introduced you to the TEKTON 7561 models offering 45 pieces. However, if you are looking for something smaller, the TEKTON 7561 just may do the trick.

This is comprised of 39 pieces including a long handle tap wrench, a T-handle tap wrench, a die stock, a 1/8 inch flat screwdriver and a thread pitch gauge.

And then of course, you have 17 plug type taps and 17 dies. The taps are all 3 flutes and 4flutes, and you get a good selection of coarse threads, fine threads and pipe threads.

Finally, the pipe thread is 1/8 NPT. And as you can guess from the sizes listed above, all the tools are in metric sizes.

Each element in the TEKTON 7559 set is made from premium quality milled alloy tool steel, giving you much-needed strength! Another of the many perks of owning TEKTON tools it’s the guarantee!

 

9. Craftsman 40 pc. Tap and Die Set, Master Rethreader

 
Next up, we have yet another great set from Craftsman. But this time, we are back with a more compact set of tools.

This time we have for you, the Craftsman 40-Piece Master Thread Restorer Kit. The Craftsman Master Thread Restorer is very basic, very simple, and very straightforward tap and die set.

It consists of 40 pieces of tools, with 7 coarse dies, 7 fine dies, 6 metric dies, 6 coarse taps, 6 fine taps, 6 metric taps, 1 standard rethread file with 8 sizes and 1 metric rethread file with 8 sizes.

Each tool is heat-treated for strength and durability. They are furthermore sized in Metric and inch and color treated for easy ID-ing. However, the set only weighs 3.55 pounds.

Now, keep in mind that the Master Rethreader is specifically for repairing threads. It can repair damaged, blunt threads on nuts and bolts, and is perfect for taking care of and touching-up  your existing tools. Everything comes nicely and neatly organized inside a hard storage case.

 

10. TEKTON 7558 Tap and Die Set Reviews

 
If you are looking for something similar to the 7559, then this is it. This 7558 consists of 39 pieces, just like the 7559. The set includes 1 long handle tap wrench, 1 “T” handle tap wrench, 1 die stock, 1 1/8″flat screwdriver and 1 thread pitch gauge.

And of course, you get 17 taps and dies with a good selection of coarse threads (NC), fine threads (NF) and one pipe thread.

Everything is sized in inches only, and is made from milled alloy tool steel.

Lastly, you have the usual suspect, the hard case. The contents of both the 7558 and 7559 sets are same. The price is the same, too.

The only feature that separates one set from the other is that set 7559 has metric sizes and the 7558 set is in inches.

 

Overview of The Tap and Die Sets

What is a Tap and Die Set?

You probably don’t need an introduction to taps and dies if you know your way around the construction department. So, skip this section if you are a tool expert. However, if you are new to taps and dies, let us give you an introduction to what they are used for.

A tap is a metal rod or bit with threads along the length of its body. You use taps to create, or repair, internal female threading. We know you are probably confused by what “female” means in this context. Female threading is done on internal surfaces which are expected to be filled in with a bolt or screw (male) that has its threads on the outside. In other words, saying that something is a female part means you’re talking about nuts, and males parts denote bolts, or screws.

A die does the exact opposite. It is a basically kind of a mold into which you insert screws or bits to create, or repair, the threading running down its length.

In conclusion, both taps and dies create threads or repair them, and therefore doing the same job. The only difference is that they do their job on different surfaces, one on the outside surface and one on the inside surface.

Taps create the female portion while dies create the male portion. A good tap and die set will include a wide variety and sizes of these tools so that you can create or repair your own threads and therefore your own custom nuts and bolts.

They are convenient and cost-effective since you don’t have to spend a lot of time looking for that perfect screw or nut. Simple and smart!

Types of Taps and Dies

Plug Taps

You’d have to keep reading for a day and a half to learn about each and every kind of tap in existence. So instead, we are going to introduce you to a handful of the most basic and fundamental taps, starting with a plug tap.

A plug tap, also known as seconding tap, has 4 to 6 chamfers of 8 degrees per side. Plug taps are never tapered and are always straight.

These types of taps are best to use for creating the cut threads needed by taper taps in blind holes. “Blind” holes basically means the hole is deeply drilled without a definite stop or end. Plug taps are easily of the most common and widely used taps of all.

Bottoming Taps

This styles of tap has 1 or 2 chamfers for starting in the holes. It is used to thread blind holes to the very bottom, as you can guess from its name.

Taper Taps

Taper taps have about 8 to 10 chamfers, and boast the maximum number of threading teeth of the 3 basic kinds of taps (plug, bottom and taper).

They are usually slightly tapered at the bottom are therefore the best kind of tap to use for starting a thread. The point diameter is identical to the core diameter. And it twists to creates a full thread through a hole. You will mostly use tapered taps in through holes since that’s where a taper is usually necessary. It almost acts as a guide when you start drilling.

Circular Dies

This type of die is used for creating threads along the entire length of a bit or screw.

Two-piece Adjustable Dies

And finally, people use this type of die to create a much longer than average threading throughout the length of a bit.

Die Nut

This type of die, also known as a thread chaser, looks like an ordinary square or hex cut. This type of die is most often used to sharpen and repair existing threads rather than formaking new threads.

Best Tap and Die Sets – Buying Guide

There are some necessary factors you need to think before buying the best taps and dies to work with.

Size

One tap and die can’t magically thread everything you throw at it. These tools aren’t universal and you need to pick the right sizes to do the job.

So, choose a tap and die set according to the sizes you need. That is something we can’t help with since, well, you know what you need better than we do. One piece of advice that we can give you is to pick a tap and die which comes in both SAE and metric measurements. You’ll thank us for this.

Accessories

Dies are something you can use manually, but using a tap by hand is not. This is where the accessories come in!

Look for taps & dies that come with wrenches and ratchets. Seriously, we cannot stress this enough. A T-handle, wrench, etc., can make using your taps and dies so much easier and more comfortable. Also, they’ll help you to get the job done more efficiently and cleanly. The wrenches are an absolute must-have for us, but some other non-mandatory yet very useful accessories may include adapters, a thread gauge, and drill bits.

Steel

Although most good tap and die sets are made, more or less, from the same materials, there are always a few materials which either do better or worse in the long run.

Ideally, you want to get taps and dies that are extremely hard and durable. Look for steel alloys, so the tools will be durable and stay sharp longer.

Low-quality stuff will snap on you and none of us need to be dealing with that sort of drama midway through threading, do we? So, save yourself some disappointment and frustration, and invest a few extra bucks in getting a good quality tap and die set.

Storage Case

A storage case is mandatory. Period. There’s no other way you can keep your tools organized, easy to find, and avoid losing them. Taps and dies are teeny tiny tools, and losing them is, unfortunately, far too easy. Having a storage case means security. They are furthermore nicely organized according to the size and functions of the tools, making it fast and easy to grab what you need while you’re working.

And to add to that, that storing your taps, dies, and accessory tools inside a case means there is less chance of damage and rusting, corrosion degrading your tools. but not least, the storage case serves as a carrying case during travels. The bottom line: don’t buy a taps and dies if it doesn’t come with a case!

Storage cases, on the other hand, need a little scrutiny as well. Their latches almost always seem to be loose or faulty, and their compartments inside the case aren’t usually snug enough to hold the tools tightly in places. So check out the case carefully before checking out with the set.

How to Use a Tap and Die Set Like a Pro

If you don’t know how to use a tap and die set properly, don’t worry.

A tap and die set is important for homes, offices, workshops, work sites, and makeshift and temporary structures where changes and different improvements need to be made.

Improvements that involve creating/repairing internal and external threads are necessary due to the wear the screw takes in metals, heavy plastics, and even hard woods.

If your screw has worn out threads, it is necessary to create new ones that can help hold the pieces together. You may see this in car engines, furniture, and other metal equipment. This is where the tapping tool comes in handy.

Step 1: Deciding Which Size to Use

Before you use a tap to create a threaded hole, the first thing is to determine what size you need to create. When you are going to create an internal thread using a tap, the hole should be smaller than the tap.

This is to ensure that a well-fitting thread hole for the intended screw fits properly.

Sizes can be measured using a thread gauge, a ruler, or by counting the threads. Creating a female internal thread is determined based on the sizes engraved or stamped on the tap.

Step 2: Prepare for Use

The taps and dies are used with a handle that holds the taps (which is for internal threads) and the other handle is for dies (which is for the external thread). You need to unscrew the handle so that it fits the tap and then screw it back on.

The handle will need to be placed on a steady surface so it will not move. Apply a lubricant or a coating of oil to the tap thread.

Step 3: Create the Internal Thread

You will then fix the tap into the hole, which is a bit smaller than the tap. You will need to apply some force to fit the tap in, after which you start turning the tap in a clockwise direction. While you are doing this, the tap will gradually create the thread. This means that some of the metal surrounding the tap will be cut out.

The cut metal scraps will still in the hole, though, and they can make it difficult to bore through.

You will need to unscrew the tap a bit, blow off the scrap metal shavings and then resume the process in the same clockwise direction. The tap will eventually work its way through the hole and create the full internal (or female) thread. The chamfer and end of the tap needs to be left sticking out, so you can remove the tap from the hole.

Step 4: Clean Off Metal Shavings and Oil

After unscrewing or removing the tap from the newly threaded hole, you need to remove the metal shaving scraps from the hole and the tap. The oil used for lubrication needs to be cleaned off as well.

Step 5: Screw

Yes, you can get the specified screw meant for the newly created thread hole to fit. It might be difficult if the threads are uneven, so you may need to practice the process again till it’s perfect.

Step 6: Using A Die to Create A Screw

Now that you have used the tap to create a threaded female hole, you need to create a screw by using the die. It is the screw that will fit into the hole as mentioned in step 5 above.

After determining the die size for the screw you will create, secure the die in the die stock to keep it steady. Apply a lubricant as well. Fix on the screw or metal that needs to be repaired or an external thread. The die will make a screw based on the direction of the old thread on
the screw.

Step 7: Turn and Create A New Screw

Next, create the screw by turning the die. After this process, you will need to unscrew, wipe out the metal shavings and clean off the oil, and voila! You have your screw.

With the threaded female hole (created by the tap), the screw or externally threaded metal piece (created by the die) will fit into it (the hole) and can be used to join your equipment, fittings or furniture.

And now you know how to use a tap and die properly. It is not rocket science. Just give it your full attention while you are using tapping tools. That’s it!

Best Tap and Die Manufacturers

Who makes the best tap and die set? Choosing the right brand is just as important as choosing the right taps & dies You want a brand that will stand behind its tools and make good quality taps and dies that work well and are durable.

TEKTON

This American brand is located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This one of the best brands because this company has a commitment to quality and customer service. TEKTON makes good products that are easy to use.

I like this brand because TEKTON sets come in the most popular sizes, and they’re tough. TEKTON’S tools can cut any material from wood to brass, cast iron, and bronze.

It is not necessary to be a professional machinist; a new home do-it-yourselfer can successfully use these products and the results will be excellent. TEKTON has some of the best tap and die set for stainless steel as well.

GearWrench

In 1996, GearWrench patented the five-step spanner. Since then, the company has become known for innovation and the high quality of its products. If you are looking for good quality tap and die sets, then GearWrench is a serious contender.

This brand surprises users with the strength of its products. Best professional tap and die set from this brand work well for auto and industrial mechanics.

GearWrench not only produces taps & dies, they make socket sets and socket set organizers too.

GINO

You can find products made by Gino under several brand names, namely TruePower and Anaconda. The brands are all part of the same company. These brands offer excellent starter or occasional use tap and die sets.

Since these tools are not made for heavy or industrial use, the price of the products is quite low and easily affordable.

Neiko

If you asked me to describe the Neiko brand in three words, I would say economy, lightweight, and strong..

The secret ingredient in the strength of this product is the titanium coating applied to their tools. It makes them super hard, the edges stay sharp longer than other brands, and the taps and dies are long-lasting.

It is also convenient that the parts are supplied in two sets, metric and standard. So if you only work with tools in one system of measurement, you can buy the set you need and not pay for tools in sizes you won’t use. NEIKO taps and dies can work with soft and hard metals, which is suitable for amateurs and professionals.

Care and Maintenance of Taps and Dies

• Both taps and dies have a lot of edges, nooks and crannies. Needless to say, they attract a lot of debris and get filled up with gunk each time you use them. To extend their life and durability, clean them each time you use them. Use a dry or damp toothbrush to lightly brush away the dirt and shavings, and a rag or paper towel to wipe off the lubricant or penetrating oil.
• Use a light hand when you clean the taps. Brushing or cleaning them vigorously may alter their shape or size. This could eventually cause you to need new taps.
• For the best threading results, always reverse your turning direction after the first few revolutions. This gets rid of the shavings built-up inside the taps and dies, and it creates a cleaner, smoother finish.
• Use lubricants if you are threading a very tough bit or nut. Any light to heavy consistency oil should do.
• Clean your tools with soapy water after each use if you used any oil or lubricant for the threading process.
• Always dry off every tool before tucking them back inside the case. Storing damp, greasy tools not only cuts down on the tools’ durability and performance, it also invites bacteria and mold to grow on your tools.
• Never exert too much pressure while turning the tap or die, or you may break the tool. Use a very natural and effortless motion, and let the tool do its job.
• Turning the wrench ratchet can make the palms of your hands sore. Wear a glove to prevent this. One neat trick is to wear rubber gloves, which increases your grip on the ratchet and makes it easier to use the tool.
• Sometimes, the wrench will snap your small taps and dies. Don’t worry about it. These are tools, not titans. Chances are that you are using too much pressure or trying to work too fast. No matter what they are made of, the smallest taps and dies are vulnerable to breakage. You can buy replacements at any good hardware store.

FAQs About Taps and Dies:

Whats is the best tap and die set to buy?

You can go with the GearWrench 3887 model.

What does TPI stand for?

TPI stands for the number of threads per inch. Imagine you have two screws that are one inch long; there could be a different number of threads on each screw.

My taps and dies work perfectly, but I can’t seem to hold the rod and nuts in place. What now?

This is a very common issue for people who refuse to use proper tools for the job. Get yourself a vise. This tool attaches to a workbench and holds materials between two jaws that can be set to a wide range of sizes. Believe us, you’ll be glad to have a vise—it makes working with taps and dies a lot easier, and you can use it for other applications too!

Are there taps and dies different for different purposes?

Well, that’s a tricky question since the answer is. Yes and no. Yes, most tapsand dies sets will cover most threading jobs. But taps and dies for vehicles are made a tad bit differently. Some are made especially for mechanics.

My wrench seems to jam after a few turns. Why is that?

That is due to the build-up of shavings inside the tap bit. We recommend that after 4-6 turn you stop and turn the wrench in the opposite direction. The shaved metal, plastic or wood in the bit will loosen and fall out, letting the wrench work more effectively. It also makes the wrench easier to turn if it isn’t plugged up with a tight wad of shavings, and you will get cleaner, sharper edges on threads you are cutting or repairing. So turn the wrench 4-6 times, then reverse the direction so the shavings can fall out, then resume your work.

Conclusion

We hope that you have enjoyed our take on the best tap and die set. We have covered everything from A to Z about taps and dies. Our buying guide should help you find the right set, in the right price range for your needs.

Feel free to share this article with a friend who needs to learn more about taps and dies, or needs to buy a set. Good luck, and good day!