An adaptive drive shank is provided for adapting a thread cutting tap tool to be driven by a conventional standard size hexagonal socket and ratchet drive. Various embodiments additionally provide color coded cutting thread tap tools adapted to lockably engage with the adaptive drive shank and have color coding identifying the taps tool thread standard. The tap tool comprises an elongated body having a thread cutting portion proximate a first end, a square drive head formed on the body at an opposing second end, and a shank portion interposed between and joining the thread cutting portion and the square drive head. The adaptive drive shank comprises an elongated shank body provided with a tap shank receiving hole through a tap tool side of the body, the receiving hole is sized to receive the square drive head and shank portion of a tap tool. The tap tool is lockably engaged in the adaptive drive shank by two opposing set screws.