This is the best hobbyist grade set I've found on Amazon. It compares directly to very similar sets costing twice as much and delivers performance of much more expensive sets for non-pro use. Yes, "non-pro" is difficult to define. But if you only need the occasional thread chased or hole tapped, this set is all you need. (On the other hand, if you need to do actual, regular machining tasks and you're looking to save some money -- you REALLY need to save up and buy pro tools. You won't get there wasting your money a bit at a time on hobby-grade.) The machining on the taps and dies is clean and crisp. I inspected each piece and didn't find any crunchy bits worth noting. The handles are just ok -- I've broken tap handles of this type before. The T-handle is an exception as it is quite solidly constructed. The handles are easily addressed by buying higher quality stand-alone handles for this set. I noted several negative reviews based on the case and, yes, it is basic quality. But the seller is apparently listening because they have more/less exactly followed one reviewer's recommendation to add a piece of layered foam to hold the taps in place when the lid is closed. It works well and, although the taps all lay loose in their 'slots' (it's really a tray as there is no retention at all), none move when the lid is closed. (FWIW: I recommend hot gluing the provided foam insert to the lid so its not floating around when open.) I do wish the slots gripped the bits as they are subject to jumping out if the case is tilted/knocked while the lid is open. But look, these are minor nits on what is otherwise a surprisingly well machined set -- and a great value at this price.
If you're not a pro, my advice is buy this set, replace the handles when ready and replace any heavily used taps or dies with high quality when you wear one out. In this way you minimize investment on a set full of pieces you're unlikely to ever use and you can focus additional money on quality exactly where you need it. Recommended. (Just be careful not to drop that case!)
| Manufacturer | UPHILL MERCHANDISE LLC |
|---|---|
| Part Number | PT-004 |
| Item Weight | 5.24 pounds |
| Package Dimensions | 16.77 x 9.61 x 1.93 inches |
| Style | Standard Set, 60-Piece |
| Finish | Aluminum,Brass,Iron,Stainless Steel,Steel |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Head Style | Flat |
| Measurement System | Metric, Imperial |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
