I LIKE END MILL HOLDERS, WHY SHOULDN'T I USE THEM?* As a general rule most cutting tool (end mill) manufacturers prefer to use single angle (ER/DR style) collet chucks for most tool applications under .500". Why? Runout and uneven chip load. This is primarily for two reasons: The error accumulation on ID tolerance of the end mill holder and the OD shank tolerance of the end mill or drill. The smaller the diameter the more potential for problems.
Can you get "Cheap" retention knobs? Yes. But, it's best not to "cheap out" on retention knobs. There are places where you can get retention knobs at 1/3 the price of brand name retention knobs. In many cases they will work fine. The real question ends up being " Do you want to be responsible when a retention knob breaks and sends a toolholder flying out of the spindle at 10,000 RPM?" If you've ever seen this happen you are happier spending and extra $5 - 10 on a brand name retention knob. Do you own a retention knob socket? If not you need to get one. Remember the FAQ on AT3? Steep taper toolholders are generally made from some derivative of 8620 and then case hardened. The widest point of contact.htm needs to be at the Gage line (gage diameter) of the holder. If you over-torque the retention knob, at an AT3 tolerance or greater, you risk the possibility of expanding the smaller diameter of the taper.Retention Knob sockets only cost about $60 depending on the taper. The sockets fit about 99% of all retention knobs on the market. This socket attaches to most torque wrenches and allows you to tighten your retention knobs to the manufacturer's specific torque requirement.