Why Regal Cutting Tools Taps Are the Gold Standard for Threading
- CTIS
- Jun 10
- 4 min read
Threading is one of the most critical operations in any machining process. Whether you're tapping thousands of holes in a production run or dialing in perfect threads for a prototype, your tooling matters. And when it comes to precision, consistency, and long-term value, Regal Cutting Tools taps stand at the top of the industry.
At CTIS, we hear it all the time from shop foremen and CNC operators: "If you're threading, use a Regal." It's not just reputation—it’s the reality of what happens on the floor. In this post, we break down why Regal taps continue to lead the pack and how to choose the right threading tools for your job.
Precision You Can Count On
In threading, even a slight deviation can cause scrap parts, lost time, and expensive rework. Regal taps are engineered to strict tolerances that ensure clean starts, accurate pitch, and consistent depth—even under aggressive feeds and speeds.
Tightly controlled lead geometry minimizes side forces and reduces the chance of misalignment.
Precision-ground threads deliver uniform cutting action, smoother finishes, and better thread integrity.
Available in plug, bottoming, and taper styles to match your job’s exact requirements.
Whether you're tapping by hand or running high-volume automated lines, Regal gives you the confidence to run hard without sacrificing thread quality.
Built from the Right Stuff: HSS, Cobalt, and More
Not all taps are created equal. One of the key reasons Regal Cutting Tools taps outperform others is their commitment to top-tier materials:
High-Speed Steel (HSS): Ideal for general-purpose tapping in mild steels, aluminum, and brass. It’s tough, forgiving, and affordable.
Cobalt Taps (M-35 & M-42): With superior heat resistance and hardness, cobalt taps are perfect for tougher materials like stainless steels and nickel alloys.
PM-HSS (Powdered Metal HSS): Offers a fine grain structure for improved wear resistance and tool life, making it a great choice for high-performance applications.
Choosing the right tap starts with knowing your material. Need to cut 304 stainless all day? Go cobalt. Working with aluminum castings? HSS might be all you need.
Coated vs. Uncoated: Which One Should You Choose?
Tool coatings can make or break your job when it comes to performance and tool life. Here’s a quick breakdown of coating options available on Regal taps:
Uncoated Taps
Best for soft materials like aluminum or brass
Lower cost and ideal for short production runs
TiN (Titanium Nitride) Coated
Extends tool life by reducing friction
Ideal for steels and tougher ferrous metals
TiCN (Titanium Carbonitride)
Even harder than TiN
Perfect for stainless steels and high-strength alloys
TiAlN (Titanium Aluminum Nitride)
Excellent heat resistance
Works well in dry machining or minimal lubrication setups
Pro tip: If you’re running dry or have issues with chip buildup, TiAlN-coated Regal taps can help reduce heat and galling without sacrificing performance.
Versatility Across Materials and Applications
From job shops to OEMs, Regal taps show up in a wide range of industries:
Aerospace: For high-performance threads in titanium and Inconel
Automotive: High-speed tapping in cast iron and hardened steels
Medical Manufacturing: Chipless thread forming for clean finishes in stainless
Energy & Oilfield: Large-diameter NPT threads and aggressive tapping in alloys
Regal’s tap catalog covers virtually every threading need—including straight flute, spiral point, spiral flute, form taps, pipe taps (NPT), STI taps for helicoils, and more.
Why Machinists Choose Regal Taps
Ask any machinist who's been in the game a while, and you'll hear the same reasons come up again and again:
Cleaner threads with less burr and chatter
Longer tool life = fewer changeouts and lower costs
Consistent performance across different machines and materials
Made in the USA, with quality control that backs up every tap
And when you're working under tight deadlines with expensive materials, that kind of reliability isn't a luxury—it's a necessity.
HSS vs. Cobalt: Quick Comparison Guide
Feature | HSS Taps | Cobalt Taps (M-35/M-42) |
Toughness | Excellent | Very Good |
Heat Resistance | Good | Excellent |
Ideal for Materials | Aluminum, mild steel, brass | Stainless steel, alloy steels |
Cost | Lower | Higher |
Best For | General purpose applications | High-temp, high-strength materials |
Choosing the Right Tap: Questions to Ask
Before picking a Regal tap, ask yourself:
What material am I tapping?
Is it a blind hole or through hole?
How many parts do I need to run?
Do I have chip evacuation concerns?
Will I be tapping manually or on a CNC?
CTIS can help you walk through these questions and point you toward the right solution.
Need the Perfect Tap? CTIS Has You Covered
From spiral point taps for high-speed production to TiCN-coated form taps for stainless, CTIS stocks the full range of Regal Cutting Tools taps you need to keep production running.
Want help selecting the right tool for your job?
Contact us today to talk with one of our tooling experts, get a quote, or set up a supply program that puts the gold standard of threading in your hands—fast.
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