Confusion Of Style Of Taps To Purchase

[Charles Spencer]

Could you explain or post a link?

I made a simple device to start taps on a drill press. I do it manually, not under power. If you drill the hole with the same press, then the tap is obviously going to be aligned with the hole:

 

[Eddyde]

For starting hand tapps in a drill press,
I snug the tap in the chuck but not too tight, turn the motor on, bring the tap down right above the hole,then turn the motor off and send the tap into the hole. Works for #8--10 and above, may work for smaller sizes but I haven tried.

 

[tmarks11]

Try one of those handy pocket tap alignment widgets-- if you get the first
two turns perfectly straight, the rest will go easy........BLJHB.

He is probably talking about something like this (tap alignment tool):

The piece on the left makes sure the tap handle (inserted through the hole in the top) is kept perpendicular to the workpiece. Makes for a nice little project to turn one of those alignment tools on your lathe.

http://www.projectsinmetal.com/free...handle-tap-wrench-tapping-fixture-lathe-mill/

If it is project allows, using a spring center in your mill or drill press works better.


Description here:
http://www.projectsinmetal.com/free-project-plan-spring-center-metal-lathe-mill/