I'm trying to use drill rod for guide rails. I also want the ends tapped with a 1/2-20 internal thead. I have a table lathe, however this material is so difficult to machine and tap. Does anyone have any suggestions? I also need the drill rod to be the same length. Any suggestions?
Can you buy drill rod with internal tapped ends cheaply?
Also, I would like to use some bent sheet metal forms for the structure.
Are there any recommendations as far as companies who stock certain shapes? Shapes such as "top hats" or "c-channels" approx. .100 inch thick.