Spiral point taps are frequently the best alternative for tapping through holes owing to specific thread and flute designs. Other names for spiral point taps include “gun nose,” “bull nose,” and “chip driver.” These taps have the same dimensions as a hand tap with a second lead, except that the cutting face for the lead portion has been ground back from the tap’s axis.

This improves the cutting action of the flute, which uses less power, pushes the cut material forward, and permits free coolant flow along the flutes to the cutting edge. The flutes are not ground as intensely as hand taps, resulting in a stronger tap. As a result, it can run at higher speeds. Spiral point taps are ideal for machine tapping through holes , or blind holes that have enough clearance beyond the threaded portion to accommodate swarf.