[DonRotolo]

Although the OP decided to solve the problem by using a different tool, the spiral point tap he was given appears to be the same as what Cory mentions.

Regardless of the RPM, it is critical that he have a way of reversing (or at least stopping) the tap before the tip hits anything solid. So if he doesn't have a Tapmatic head, slow is the answer. But a good tap can run at several hundred RPM, maybe 1200, depending on the details (a harder job needs slower speeds)

Tapping with a hand drill will break the tap with even the slightest movement. Don't even try.