Hardware stores and industrial supply stores should stock collets. Though a small and inexpensive part, many tools cannot work properly without a good collet. Collets have an advantage over other types of chucks in that they take less time to set up, do not jar loose easily and have precision accuracy. They do not take as much skill to use. However, most collets can only fit one size and/or shape of tool. Your store may have to stock a wide range of collets to anticipate the needs of your customers.

Many common tools use a collet or a collet chuck for gripping. Milling machines, lathes, wood routers and grinders require collets. High speed rotary tools, such as the Dremel, use collets. Some designs apply to woodworking tools, while others apply to metalworking tools. Some collets have very specialized applications, such as electronics and internal combustion engines. Hundreds of collet designs exist; stock your store in accordance with demand.

1. Determine what types of collets are available

2. Search for collet suppliers

3. Look for direct supply from collet manufacturers if necessary.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Identify the different types of collets

Collets have a wide variety of specialized uses. Some designs provide better gripping power when used on metal vs. wood. Others work better in specific types of tools.

I recommend: RH Collets designs collets specifically for use with Hydromat rotary instruments. Drewco manufactures custom-designed collets. Hardinge makes lathe collets for machine shop equipment and screw machines, and Hardinge collets generally ship within 24 hours from receipt of your order. Tool King carries router collets for woodworking applications.

Find collet suppliers and collet providers that meet your needs

Collet suppliers carry a wide range of collets. Choose a supplier that can supply all of your needs. Some suppliers also carry collet holders for extra security in holding your tools.

I recommend: The Dunham Tool Company specializes in a variety of collets of various sizes and construction. EColletChucks is one of several collet distributors that carries collets made by several different manufacturers. These include multiple position collet chucks, pull back collet chucks and many others. Collis Toolholder carries both collets and collet holders.

Compare collet manufacturers deals

Sometimes you can buy directly from the collet manufacturer and get a good deal. If you need custom tools, dealing directly with a manufacturer can provide the best product.

I recommend: Techleader Tooling manufactures carbon steel precision collets and extensions. Techleader also builds custom collets. Riten Industries manufactures Setrite collets, a specialized tool for the metalworking industry. Riten's website features a downloadable catalog for a full line of collet products.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Like any other tool, collets can get dirty. It is important to keep your collets clean to prevent slippage of tools. Clean the insides of your collets and collet mounts with mineral spirits or lacquer thinner. Use a brass brush such as those used for gun cleaning.