Value Collection MSC-04912184 Straight Flute Tap 3/8-16 Unc

Product Description

The VALUE COLLECTION MSC-04912184 is a straight flute tap designed to cut 3/8-16 UNC internal threads in a left-hand direction. Built from high-speed steel (HSS) with a bright/uncoated finish, it delivers reliable performance in a wide range of ferrous and non-ferrous materials. The taper chamfer eases thread entry and reduces the torque required to start the cut. With 4 flutes and an H3 thread limit, this tap holds tight tolerances suitable for a Class 3B fit. Overall length is 2-15/16 inches with a thread length of 1-1/4 inches. Machinists and maintenance technicians use this tap for hand tapping or machine tapping applications where a left-hand thread is required.

This tap is suited for production and maintenance work in metal fabrication, tooling, and general mechanical assembly where 3/8-16 UNC left-hand threads are specified. The taper chamfer style makes it appropriate for through-holes or as the first tap in a sequential tapping set. It is well matched to bench work, drill press setups, and CNC tapping operations where left-hand thread orientation is needed to resist loosening under rotational loads.

Key Features

• 3/8-16 UNC thread form with left-hand thread direction for applications requiring reverse-thread fastening
• Taper chamfer (7-10 threads) eases starting and distributes cutting load gradually
• High-speed steel construction provides wear resistance across a range of workpiece materials
• H3 thread limit maintains Class 3B fit tolerances for precision thread engagement
• 4-flute design offers good chip clearance and stable cutting geometry
• Bright/uncoated finish allows direct inspection of tool condition and wear

Compatibility

Designed as a standard replacement or production tap for any application requiring a 3/8-16 UNC, Class 3B, left-hand internal thread in through-hole or blind-hole configurations.

Installation Notes

Installation should be performed by a qualified machinist or maintenance technician familiar with tapping operations. Always secure the workpiece firmly and align the tap perpendicular to the hole before applying torque. For hand tapping, use a calibrated tap wrench and apply cutting fluid appropriate to the workpiece material to extend tool life and improve thread quality. Because this is a left-hand tap, rotation direction is reversed from standard tapping practice — turn counterclockwise to cut and clockwise to back out.