This 1.25" x 8 tpi threaded Bottle Stopper Mandrel threads onto the headstock / spindle and has a unique tapered-cut flute making it the best self-tapping mandrel on the market.   It has a 3/8″ x 16 tpi threaded stud that works with just about all the stoppers on the market and numerous other projects: ice cream scoop handles, shaving brushes, pizza cutters, etc.  They have a black oxide coating for rust prevention.  The neck or step below the threaded stud is 13/16″ diameter which matches the tops of all Ruth Niles bottle stoppers (except Whiskey Stoppers. For those you will need a Niles Mandrel Adapter..  This mandrel does not use a draw bar.  It comes with 2 nylon spacers (a spare because you will lose one!) which are used to help keep the wood from locking on the mandrel as you turn it.   Use a 1 3/8″ wrench on the flats to start turning mandrel off the spindle.

*Tip: if the wood does get a death grip and you can’t get the project off the mandrel, put the whole thing in the freezer for 10 – 15 minutes and it will unthread once the metal shrinks.  Also try a little beeswax or soap on the mandrel before threading it into the wood.

The 5/16″ is the standard size when threading a 3/8″ hole; the 11/32″ is for dense wood, acrylic and resins.

The bottoming tap cuts threads all the way in unlike regular taps that leave about 1/4″ untapped and it makes threading quick and easy.

Optional Accessories

Headstock Mandrel Adaptor 15/16"            Headstock Mandrel Adapter 1"