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

After yet another Harbor Freight punch wore out, I decided to buy a real tool. The Starrett auto punch is definitely well made and feels good to hold, and operates smoothly -- but it doesnt do much. Im getting just a tiny nick in 24ga steel sheet metal, and not much better in 1/8 aluminum extrusions. This is at the highest setting. I guess this punch is only really intended for softer materials, but that wasnt super clear to me in the description. Im just a weekend warrior and not familiar with the intricacies of selecting proper fabrication tools. Evidently I I was also surprised by how small it is...the dimensions are clearly given but I have small hands so figured it wouldnt be an issue. I can hold it fine but it gets lost in the pencil-loop of my toolbelt where I kept my old one -- I have to take off my gloves and poke around in there to fish it out, which isnt much of a time-savings. Im returning the punch in favor of the full-sized 18C, which apparently is more like what Im looking for.

This is the second one Ive owned. The first keeps disappearing on me. Now I KNOW where I can find one when I need it. Being Starrett, you know its high quality.

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.

High quality. You get what you pay for.

Ok for soft metals, needs stronger spring for most steels

The punch was as seller indicated and in fine condition, however, not knowing the the model number it was much smaller than the one I had previously owned (US made by General Tool) and turned out to be too small and too light-duty for my purposes... it was like a mini-punch. I had to re-purchase the18A model from another source. I should contact the seller to request a return.

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.

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

After just a few uses, stopped resetting after punch. Springs seemed to be worn even when new. Internal pin seemed to wedge in body. Could be a knock-off and not a real Starett.

Was too weak to produce a dimple in the metal sheet I wanted to drill.