Cheap-n-Easy tap holders

**bobs409** · Apr 18, 2018, 10:16 AM

This has to be the cheapest and easiest way to make a tap holder. These are made using threaded rod connector nuts and some bolts. Nice thing is they are already drilled and tapped so all you do is drill the hole(s) for the tap and you're done.

To fit all my taps, I made 3 different sizes. Each one has 2 different sized holes so you pick the one that fits best. These fit everything from my 4-40 up to 1/2 inch taps.

You could opt to make handles instead of using the bolts.

**mklotz** · Apr 18, 2018, 11:28 AM

I would recommend lock-nuts on the handles. Hand pressure may loosen the bolts while threading. If the hardened tap falls out onto a concrete floor it will break.

That's why I prefer the style...

http://www.homemadetools.net/forum/m...p-wrench-61852

where the tap-holding screws are not part of the handles.

**DIYer** · Apr 20, 2018, 01:39 AM

Thanks bobs409! We've added your Tap Holders to our Tapping and Threading category,
as well as to your builder page: bobs409's Homemade Tools. Your receipt:

Tap Holders by bobs409

tags: tapping, holder

**chucksjc** · Aug 10, 2018, 05:59 PM

Looks great. But how does a square tap work in a round hole?

**ncollar** · Aug 10, 2018, 09:08 PM

Bob
Very nice but I think I would go in the direction Marv showed but I would turn the long nut on the outer parts to receive a piece of tubing instead of bolts. The length would be what ever to get the torque required to cut the threads. There is so much could be done with the idea and make a very nice tool.
Thanks for sharing
Nelson

**12bolts** · Aug 11, 2018, 12:54 AM

Originally Posted by chucksjc

Looks great. But how does a square tap work in a round hole?

Just screw the bolts in and they grip on the flats

**volodar** · Aug 11, 2018, 09:59 AM

Originally Posted by chucksjc

Looks great. But how does a square tap work in a round hole?

The torque end of a tap is of square cross-section. This tap's handles are bolts. They are set against opposite sides of the tap's square end. The tap is now captive in the tapping handle.

**volodar** · Dec 6, 2018, 08:55 AM

"To fit all my taps, I made 3 different sizes. Each one has 2 different sized holes so you pick the one that fits best. These fit everything from my 4-40 up to 1/2 inch taps."

I'd be tempted to drill the six different sized holes into a single threaded rod connector. Weakening of the connector likely inconsequential. One tool instead of three.