What do I need to build a tap handle?

Question

I'm trying to build a bunch of tap handles, and am a little confused on what I need.

Do I need both of these:

Hangar Bolt and Ferrule

or just this:

Tap Handle Insert

Or something else / other things entirely?

Answer 1

Well...yes :)

If you want to have a ferrule on your handle like this:

then you need the hangar bolt and ferrule. The hangar bolt has 5/16"-18 male threads on the ferrule side, while the ferrule has 5/16"-18 female threads on the top, and 3/8"-16 female threads on the bottom.

If you want only wood at the bottom of your handle like this:

then you want the threaded insert (3/8"-16).

Protip: if you're planning on doing several, order your inserts in bags of 10 from a place like McMaster-Carr. It's a lot cheaper that way.

If you want to see how I make taphandles on my lathe, check out my videos here.

Answer 2

Thanks for the great info. I found that Amazon carries packs of 10 threaded inserts cheaper than Mcmaster. http://www.amazon.com/Threaded-Insert-Threads-Tensile-Strength/dp/B0026GZU0Q/ref=lh_ni_t?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER