Why can't I find a 1/4" R8 mill end holder

Looks like 1/2" is the smallest common shank size for end mill holders in R8. However, you can get R8 collets in sizes much smaller than

1/4". Usual suspects have R8 collets, MSC carries 4 different brands in 1/4". Another solution would be to sleeve the 1/2" holder down to 1/4". Personally, I'd go for the collet, you probably won't be applying enough side force to walk the cutter out and you'd gain 3/4"-1" extra height over the table over the end mill holder.

Stan

Try

part no. BCV-75905M -- this is at the very top end pricewise, but it shows you they are out there. - GWE

Not only do you gain height, but (more importantly, IMO) you reduce runout. Endmill arbors are nice for hogging as they don't typically allow the cutter to move, but they have more runout than a collet which is not good for smaller endmills.

Regards,

Robin

NOT true. 1/4" and 3/8" R8 end mill holders are available. I have several of each (some imported). Try a real machinst's supply instead of a discount import place. Granted, they will be more expensive there.

Dan Mitchell ============

OTOH I've had problems getting little collet-mounted endmills close enough to the work. The spindle nose won't clear the clamping or the workpiece.

A collet holder lets you get down into a hole easier. I guess the best situation would be to have both collets and holders.

ETM makes them - even 3/16 . Martin

--You picket three losers. Try MSC or IPS or Travers Tool.

You can get them. I got two Collis EM holders from MSC, I think. After searching all over, I ended up paying $45 apiece for them, on sale! I really don't know any solution other than buying it at full price, unfortunately. I don't know why this one particular size is so hard to come by.

Jon