Taps and dies

[Snowy]

I regularly see used BSF taps and dies at my local fleamarket, for quite reasonable prices. They are used, of course, but for thread chasing and low-frequency use they are just fine. I have a set of UNC and UNF ones I acquired this way. I also see them at car swap meets where there is usually a bigger selection too.

Must say I agree wholeheartedly with the sentiments about McMaster-Carr and their rather insular attitude.

Steve.

[Harry Moon]

I don't think the issue of not selling outside the USA is anything more than the application of some law, probably a necessary law, that they are complying with. A small sale is simply not cost effective with the paperwork involved. Good business sense keeps them in business.
I run into it all the time when fixing old guns. Nice people to deal with but they don't want some law enforcement types ruining their day(years).
Big general condemnations do nothing for our relationship and add nothing to this forum.