Starrett Steel Automatic Center Punch with Adjustable Stroke - 5-1/4 Length, 11/16 Punch Diameter, Lightweight, Knurled Steel Handle - 18C

Starrett is one of the great names in American precision measuring and tooling products, and this Automatic Center Punch is no exception. A few years ago, they changed the design of the center punches where the shank and the tip are unitized, meaning you have many more opportunities to sharpen the tip before you require a replacement. Its not as elegant as the original design, but it is more robust, and has one less part to worry about(the replaceable tip) I now have the 18C, and have the original 18A and 18AA. This is by far the heaviest duty unit of the three, and will likely get the most use. It is adjustable, however, even the lightest setting is still quite hard, so if you are working with soft metals or thin gauge stock, you will likely want to use the 18A or 18AA. This one is perfect for my use, and I will now be selling off my General automatic center punch, which takes significantly more pressure to activate and doesnt hit nearly as hard.

If youre reading this, theres a 95% chance you saw this punch on the Canadian fabricobblers YouTube channel. Like he said, this isnt a necessary tool, but is it ever nice to have. I find that it either takes two strikes with heavy tension to get a good starting mark, or one strike on light tension, followed up with an actual hammer and punch. So, its not a one-hit wonder, but it will definitely let you mark the spot precisely. Its saved me enough time and frustration in the three months Ive owned it that Id say its earned five stars.

Wow... this is powerful. Like other reviewers, I received this with the knurled cap so tight I couldnt budge it until I put it in a vice and rotated it w/ pliers. But even before loosening the tension, I tried it on a piece of hardwood (Teak) and it punched a good hole in it (albeit at the expense of straining both of my hands). After loosening, the tension/punching was much easier to manage. Id buy again - a bit pricey but worth it.

First off-this is a quality product, for professional use. There is no slop on the part fit up, and replacement parts are readily available through the manufacturer. It’s a tad expensive, but it’s worth more than what I paid for it. It’s easily adjustable, and strikes reliably, without losing its pinch pressure setting. A tad stiff at the hardest punching level, I would recommend some type of padding or impact glove for all day use. This tool works very well for pricking holes in 308 stainless for line up on a drill press, or an ironworker (punch).

I have only used this punch on mild steel and within two months the point has become very dull. I suspect a hardening issue. Not what I thought I was getting when I bought a Starrett. Otherwise it seems nice.

Starrett What more is there to say. The best!!! Since I dont use a center punch daily, I thought I could get away with a cheap center punch. I was wrong. Junk Live and learn Dont cheap out

I use it at work

This is my first automatic punch I have ever owned. So, in all fairness I dont have anything to compare it to. I read the reviews by others and decided to pay more up front and get quality made in USA product. I made a few test punches with it and I am happy with the performance. It works every time and it makes a dimple of adequate depth to keep the drill bit from wandering. This thing is solid. Durability will be tested over time, but I have no reservations about it. It will outlast me for sure.

Highest quality item. But a high level of arm strength needed to operate. Perhaps the design needs an enhanced setting mechanism.

No doubt this is the best auto center punch that I have owned. That is, until it stopped working. Lasted about 3 years, but I use it almost every day. This punch is for metal, not wood people. If you need a punch for wood get a Harbor Freight special. It held up to whatever I used it on - Stainless, Mild Steel, Aluminum, etc. and then one day it would not actuate. Tried everything and couldnt get it working again. Emailed Starrett, warranty on these is only a year from purchase, so I reluctantly sent it back for repair. The cost to repair was about $12 shy of buying a new one. Hate to do it, but like I said - this is the best Ive owned.