Keep chips clear while tapping. Also known as gun taps, these have spiral-point flutes that push chips ahead of the tap and out of through holes. Because they don't need to be reversed to prevent buildup, they produce threads more efficiently than standard taps and are suitable for production work. They're made of high-speed steel for use on most metal and plastic. With a square shank, they're compatible with tap wrenches and tap holders for drill presses and milling machines. All have a plug chamfer with 3-5 chamfered cutting threads, so they're suitable for start-to-finish tapping.

Use uncoated taps for short production runs.