Definition
Die Collar — A die collar is an external-catch fishing tool with hardened, tapered internal threads that is screwed over the outside of a tubular fish, cutting its own thread onto the fish to grip it for pulling and jarring.
Also known as: die collar, die, fishing die collar
How a die collar works
A die collar is the external counterpart of the taper tap. Instead of threading into the bore of a fish, it is lowered over the outside of a fish — typically a joint of pipe or tubing — and rotated so its hardened, tapered internal threads cut a mating thread onto the fish’s outer wall. Once bitten in, the die collar provides a strong grip for overpull and jarring to work the fish loose and recover it.
When it is used
A die collar is chosen when the fish top is solid on the outside but too damaged, collapsed, or small- bored to catch internally with a tap or releasing spear. Like the taper tap, it is generally a non-releasing tool, so it is run when the operator intends to commit to recovering that fish. It is frequently paired with jars and an accelerator to maximize the pulling force delivered.
Why it matters for rentals
Die collar size must match the fish outside diameter, and several sizes may be needed to respond to a recovery.
Our fishing tools include die collars and taps for rental — contact us with the fish outside diameter for a matched external-catch tool.