16BA taps?

[Tim Watson]

Anyone know of a source that isn’t silly money?

Tim

 

[oldravendale]

I'm sure you are already aware that Eileens do a taper 16BA tap for £20, so it rather depends on what you mean by silly money. Squires do one for £6.99 but I can't speak for the quality. Come to that I can't speak for the quality of the Eileens one either!

Brian

 

[Tim Watson]

Thanks Brian. Ordered some.
Tim

 

[markjj]

I have brought and used the taps from both sources. I cant see a noticeable difference between them. They both break easily if you are not careful

 

[oldravendale]

Yes, I've broken one as well, Mark, but that's how I learned about the art of lubrication.

Brian

 

[Eastsidepilot]

I use small taps in a pin vice but not gripped to tightly, so that if it binds the vice will revolve slightly, you get used to the feel as soon as it starts to bind so you can stop before it shears. With small taps 1/4 turn and back off, but also make sure the you have used the right tapping size drill !
Lubricant of coarse, I use Trefolex cutting compound.
Col.