drill bit size

there still seems to be a bit of confusion on the adjustable dies???? heres some pics. This is what I use at work. And I thread stainless on a daily basis. big bucks though



And here is the cheap ass version of an adjustable die. I definatly woulndnt thread any thing to tuff with this one


hope this clears up a little confusion. there are other products out there as well

 

All except the last die look to be for machines. I'm guessing most people here do not know about them- I think that's where the "confusion" stems from. I'm also guessing that most people here that have a tap and die set have non-adjustable dies. Q: Are all hex dies non-adjustable and all round dies adjustable?

Thanks,
Kurt

 

You'll find that using the exact size drill bit according to the drill bit chart is easier than using the next one that's close to a standard fractional drill size. I bought a big ass set with about 150 different sizes when it was on sale.

 

no not all round dies are adjustable. The machine dies I showed are for a power threader, but the also make a hand verion with a screw in handle. that you can use with a lathe. Those cheap ones arn't vary adjustable though and many times arnt exact on the pitch.(this comes in to play when treading into a tube)

 

Just use a chart... Places like fastenal will give you one...

Mike

 

Those adjustable dies will not cut good useble threads they are mostly made to
repair messed up wasted ones. As for drill size for taps use a chart ! those charts only will only give you 60% probable thread...enough for decent thread

 

Most charts are 72-75%.