Starrett Automatic Center Punch with Hardened Steel Metal - 100mm Length, 11mm Punch Diameter Tapered Point - 18AA

I use this to punch/stamp date codes into metal castings and I typically have to do it multiple times in the same spot for it to be deep enough for QA purposes (by deep enough, I mean visible without a magnifying glass and/or light to notice the difference). The tool came fully tightened, so theres no way to make the punch hit harder unless I use a hammer (which is impractical in some cases). Maybe the spring is faulty and thats my issue? I dont know as Im not going to try to open it up and risk not having it work even at this level. The tip has retained its point after multiple uses, so thats a definite plus. I would have given this 5 stars if I didnt have to punch the same spot multiple times to see an effect.

Starrett is known for making quality tools and this one is no exception. I have already used it for several projects and it has performed well and is still in great condition. Worth the money in my opinion. Would both recommend and purchase again if needed.

It is smaller than I expected. It works well but I wish I would have gotten the 18c. It would have been a little bit bigger and punched a little bit harder. All in all a very high-quality product!

This punch is small, which is a plus, and very dependable. I use it anytime I want a small centering hole. Just push and punch. Well worth getting. The self tapping feature is easy and reliable. Dont know why it took me so long to find this device. No more hammering. Now a simple one-handed operation. Listen for the click and you know you have a made small centering mark.

This punch is super high quality, I’ve had it a few months and still working great. But I would say it’s not the best for hard metals, which is what I bought it for. If you are using for marking wood & soft metals (aluminum, brass) should be fine but not so much on steel. I would recommend getting the heavy duty version for about $10 more.

High quality center punch, USA made, type of tool that will last generations

Commercial hollow metal door layout and prep

It arrived early and workswell. The adjustable punch is great depending on the material youre trying to mark and the size if impression.

Beautifully made solid steel center punch. The adjustable action is helpful. Feels like a lifetime tool in your hand. This one is small which I like for getting in tight spaces to mark pieces while they are held against each other.

Good for woodworking, even on softer woods. Sometimes takes a couple punches to make the size of hole that I want but given how easy it is to use this isnt really a con, just press up and down a couple times. It works on metal too but obviously if you are primarily doing metal working this probably wont be heavy duty enough.