Thos tap prices aren't too high. The $209 is for the pair. A machinist could make one each for much cheaper, but they would only be good for a few threadings. I just paid $90 for a 13.5x1mm LH tap for a pistol thread protector. It's high, but I'll make enough thread protectors to recoup the cost. I could have made the tap for around $4, but even after hardening, it would have only lasted for 4-5 taps before the tap was worn enough to cause interference fit issues. The $90 tap should last for 20-30 before it's worn.
