Tap and die set

[chriz1]

Can anyone recommend a good qualtiy tap and die set, would only be used for occasional use for home mechanic, something under £40 of that's at all possible.

[DuraAce]

Machine mart do some decent kits, I got mine for there. It's probably not "professional" quality but it's been fine for my DIY jobs, I've tapped several holes and restored a few others and it's been ok.

[PositronicRay]

I used this one recently

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B000LFS22W?psc=...

Fine for my occasional use.

[Quinten]

I bought a metric tap+die set from Lidl (think it was < £20) the last time they sold them and had to use the M6 one recently. It snapped at the first bit of resistance and it was fortunate that I was still able to retrieve it with some pliers.

I've also bought some individual taps (3 stage) from an ebay seller and they've been absolutely fine (but cost a tenner for a single size)

[andyiley]

Unfortunately with tools there is no such thing as good and cheap.

The best advice I would give is to get a set at a time and spread the cost, but stick to good quality, Presto are good.

If you but the common sizes 6 x 1, 8 x 1.25. 10 x 1.5, 12 x 1.75 (IIRC) with a full set of 3 taps for each they will do good service for many years.

The tap wrench is less of an issue and doesn't need to be good quality to quite the same extent.

The same goes for the dies obviously, although die nuts are easier to get on with for most people.

[Auntieroll]

Take a look at Tracy Tools website, long established,excellent service, quality more than adequate for non commercial /occasional use.

[CrutyRammers]

The Clarke ones are decent enough in that price range, I've used mine a lot, and just bought the odd extra as and when I've needed it.

[Mr2Mike]

Quinten said:

I bought a metric tap+die set from Lidl (think it was < £20) the last time they sold them and had to use the M6 one recently. It snapped at the first bit of resistance and it was fortunate that I was still able to retrieve it with some pliers.

I've also bought some individual taps (3 stage) from an ebay seller and they've been absolutely fine (but cost a tenner for a single size)

Cheap taps and dies are made from carbon steel. They are usually fine on softer materials (stainless steel can be a challenge) but tend to be brittle, so require a delicate touch.

Good quality taps and dies are made from high speed steel (HSS). Much stronger and longer lasting than basic carbon steel items, and usable on the tougher materials.

[Chris H1AVFC]

I have a Draper set that wasn't cheap at around £70 but has everything you need including the right size drills. Had it over 10 years & lost count of the times its got me out of the mire so more than paid for itself.

http://www.dm-tools.co.uk/product.php/site/froogle...

HTH