A true-grip collet is a gripping apparatus that is a chuck subtype. The collet forms a collar around the item to be held, and applies a clamping pressure on the item when it is tightened. True-grip collets hold items firmly in the center of rotation. They are most commonly used for holding tools or work pieces.

You have several choices when it comes to purchasing true-grip collets. Purchasing collets directly from the manufacturer can save your business money by avoiding the middle man. They will also have experts available to provide you with any true-grip collets information that you may need. Collets can also be purchased from a distributor. When you are looking for standard sets, this is a great way to go. If you cannot find a true-grip collet that will satisfy your needs you can work with a custom manufacturer to get exactly what you need. As you search for true-grip collets, consider the following:

1. Locate manufacturers of true-grip collets

2. Order standard true-grip collets and kits from vendors

3. Work with manufacturers that specialize in custom orders

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

Locate manufacturers of true-grip collets

Purchasing directly from the manufacturer will help to ensure that you get the precise true-grip collet for your shop needs. Some manufacturers have the capability of custom manufacturing a true-grip collet according to your exact specifications.

I recommend: VW Broaching Services is a manufacturer of true-grip collets. Their true-grip collets are available in cases of 1, 3/4, 1/2 and 1/4 inch sizes. They come in a specialty case. This manufacturer can also custom make specific shapes and sizes for your shop. Hardinge is the largest manufacturer in the world to produce precision collets, workholding systems and chucks.

Find distributors of true-grip collets

When you need a standard true-grip collets, purchasing from a distributor is the way to go. You will have a wide variety of sizes to choose from, or you can purchase the chucks in a kit.

I recommend: MP Tool and Engineering is a true-grip collets provider. Their true-grip collets have dial diameter clamping, a longer contact area and are available in static or pull-back design. You can also find true-grip collets at Lexair. Their Lexair full boar line of chucks does not require external actuators.

Work directly with a custom manufacturer of true-grip collets

Working directly with a custom manufacturer will help guarantee that you get the exact true-grip collet that you need. Custom manufacturers specialize in custom orders, as well as orders for standard collets. Their experience will make custom designing and ordering collets a breeze.

I recommend: Drewco Workholding is a specialist in custom designing and manufacturing true-grip collets. Their activation methods include pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanical and manual. Their engineers will work closely with you, making sure they consider your workholding and locating requirements. Royal Products has a fairly extensive standard true-grip collets list, as well as a line of custom collets that have features such as being longer, shorter or having more tool clearance.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When you are switching from another type of chuck to a true-grip collet, attend a machining trade show to gather information and advice from representatives that specialize in collets.