Morse vs. Jacobs Tapers: Dimensions, Angles & Sizing Charts
When it comes to power tools and machines, taper shanks play a big role in keeping everything running smoothly. Whether you're swapping out a drill chuck or installing a lathe tool, understanding Morse and Jacobs tapers can help you match the right fit and avoid costly mistakes.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
- What Morse and Jacobs tapers are
- How they differ
- Standard sizes and dimensions
What Is a Taper in Tooling?
A taper refers to a drill sleeve with a conical shape that gradually narrows, allowing one part to fit snugly into another. In machining and drilling, tapers help align tools and hold them in place using friction—no screws or bolts required.
Morse Taper vs. Jacobs Taper: What’s the Difference?
While both rely on friction to hold parts together, the difference lies in their design, usage, and angle.
| Morse Taper | Jacobs Taper | |
| Primary Use | Tool spindles & sleeves | Drill chucks & arbors |
| Design | Longer and shallower angle | Shorter and steeper angle |
| Removal Method | Knockout bar or drift key | Typically pressed or pulled |
| Use Case | Lathes, mills, drill presses | Portable drills, small chucks |
Jacobs Taper Dimensions
| Jacobs Taper # | Large Diameter | Small Diameter | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0.250" | 0.228" | 0.438" |
| 1 | 0.384" | 0.333" | 0.656" |
| 2 short | 0.549" | 0.488" | 0.750" |
| 2 | 0.559" | 0.488" | 0.875" |
| 3 | 0.811" | 0.746" | 1.219" |
| 4 | 1.124" | 1.037" | 1.656" |
| 5 | 1.413" | 1.316" | 1.875" |
| 6 | 0.676" | 0.624" | 1.000" |
| 33 | 0.624" | 0.561" | 1.000" |
Morse Taper Dimensions
| Morse Taper # | Large Diameter | Small Diameter | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0.356" | 0.252" | 1.938" |
| 1 | 0.475" | 0.369" | 2.063" |
| 2 | 0.700" | 0.572" | 2.500" |
| 3 | 0.938" | 0.778" | 3.063" |
| 4 | 1.231" | 1.020" | 3.875" |
| 4-1/2 | 1.500" | 1.266" | 4.313" |
| 5 | 1.748" | 1.475" | 4.938" |
| 6 | 2.494" | 2.116" | 7.000" |
| 7 | 3.270" | 2.750" | 9.500" |
How to Identify a Taper
If you’re trying to match a taper but don’t know which one you’ve got, follow these steps.
- Measure the large and small diameters.
- Check the length of the taper.
- Look for markings or part numbers.
- Compare measurements to the charts above.
Still unsure? You can find taper identification sleeves and tools that help confirm the match.
Shop Morse and Jacobs Tapers at Zoro
Zoro carries a wide selection of taper arbors, sleeves, and drill chucks designed for professional tools and machines. Whether you’re replacing a part or upgrading your shop, we’ve got what you need to keep things running smoothly.
FAQs About Tapers
What is the difference between Morse and Jacobs tapers?
Morse tapers are longer and used in machine spindles. Jacobs tapers are shorter and often found in drill chucks.
How do I remove a stuck taper?
Use a drift key or wedge tool. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damage.
Can I use adapters to convert between tapers?
Yes, taper adapters and sleeves are available to fit Morse to Jacobs or vice versa—just double-check compatibility first.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions. Portions of this article were generated in part by ChatGPT, and edited by a member of the Zoro team.
