Milwaukee High Carbon Steel SAE Straight Plug Tap 3/8-16 NC is engineered for professionals who demand durability and precise thread cutting in metalworking projects. This SAE straight plug tap creates clean, accurate internal threads with a robust, wear-resistant composition and a finish that helps resist corrosion in demanding shop environments. At 2.75 inches in length and packaged as a single carded piece, it fits neatly into your tap set and toolbox.
Key features that matter in real-world tapping
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Material you can trust: high carbon steel delivers exceptional strength and wear resistance for repeated tapping in steel, cast iron, and other metals.
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Precise thread size: 3/8-16 NC (Unified National Coarse) for common fasteners and assemblies, offering reliable engagement and easy trimming in fabrication work.
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Straight plug design: optimized for cutting internal threads with consistent alignment and full-depth engagement.
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Durable finish: black oxide coating reduces friction during cutting and adds mild corrosion resistance for longer tool life.
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Retail-ready packaging: carded packaging keeps the tap protected and ready for display; includes 1 piece per package.
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Trusted brand: Milwaukee's decades-long reputation for durable, field-tested metalworking tools.
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What’s not included: drill bit is not included—pair with your preferred drill and cutting fluid for best results.
How to use effectively
To achieve clean, accurate threads, start with a clean, properly sized pilot hole. Maintain perpendicular alignment to the workpiece, apply steady, even pressure, and rotate the tap slowly. Back off to clear chips every few turns, then continue until you reach full thread depth. After tapping, carefully back the tap out and wipe away residue to preserve the cutting edges for future jobs.
Ideal applications
- Repair or create internal threads in metal components for automotive, machinery, and fabrication projects.
- Useful for steel, cast iron, and other robust metals where a durable tapping solution is essential.
- Maintenance tasks like replacing stripped threads or adding new threads to custom parts.
Specifications at a glance
Length: 2.75 inches | Tap size: 3/8-16 NC | Finish: Black oxide | Material: High carbon steel | Style: Straight plug tap | Package: 1 tap per card