Help - Machining slim rod on the lathe

[Wongster]

Hi guys,

I bought a length of SS rod of the right diameter (4mm). All work well except that I broke 2 M2 taps while trying to tap the 2 holes. The first can be salvage as I was already at the right depth when the tap snapped. The 2nd tap for the 2nd hole snapped at just a short distance in and refuse to come out. I was hiding the tap in the tailstock with a drill chuck.

Before I start on a new piece with new taps, any advice for this tap breaking newbie? I've so far only broke a tap (M3 I believe) in the past.

Regards,
Wong