The simple tools of dies and taps are inexpensive, most costing around $10 for a small set.
Types of Taps
There are three basic types of hand taps.
* '''Plug Tap'''. These are the most common types of taps because they are most efficient. Plug taps feature a steep taper at the end of the tap, allowing it to cut through metal with just a few simple turns.
* '''Bottoming Tap'''. These bottoming taps are used for creating a new thread, especially when the hole has already been partially threaded.
* '''Taper Tap'''. Taper taps are similar to plug taps, except for the taper comes to a point in a more gradual manner. This makes it easier to tap a straight hole and works great on materials that are prone to breaking, such as with alloy or steel.
