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

Well made but very expensive. Durability can only be gauged after extensive use.

I thought I had a need, but didnt and was too lazy to return. It seems really expensive, I wish it was about 15 cheaper but it is high quality I look forward to having a need.

Im a retired tool and die maker of 35 years. I started buying Starret precision tools in the early 70s. Back then those tools were far superior to anything on the market. I still use them to this day which speaks volumes about the quality. The only reason I purchased an auto center punch is because my original punch disappeared about a month ago. My daddy always said Dont buy the cheap tools because in the end it will cost more to keep replacing them than if you spend a little more on quality.

As stated in the title, I run a metalfab shop. I use this nearly every day, and have punched what must be hundreds of centers in mild steel with this. Its still sharp and working like the day I pulled it from the box for the first time. Having it be adjustable is nice too, when using it on softer/thinner materials or for smaller holes, where more force or larger centers arent necessarily a good thing. Ive learned to love this center punch, highly recommend it, and will be a repeat customer.

The Starrett 18C Automatic Center Punch is the most heavy duty center punch Starrett offers. The automatic center punches offered by Starret are the 18AA, 18A, and 18C. The main difference is the length and diameter of the handle this allows for stronger spring compression and greater size. With an increased spring size the 18C is capable of driving a starter hole punch is the toughest of material, without the need to hammer a manual punch after. General: Excellent Knurling - Amazing Grip. Great Finish. Not good for center punching most wood materials—too heavy-duty. Perfect for 16 Gauge Steel.

I was hesitant to spend this much money on an automatic center punch, but am glad that I did. This is a very high quality tool that is not only a pleasure to use but should last a lifetime. There are parts (such as the tip and spring) that may need replacing after a lot of use, but as with many quality tools you can buy those parts without having to buy a new tool. I took a star away because I had to use pliers to start the adjustment cap turning and once the cap was broken free hand turning wasnt smooth and even. That was quickly fixed using a small brash brush and air compressor to remove what looked like small metal particles in the threads. Once that was done cap adjustments were smooth and easy. I was also contemplating getting one of their lighter duty punches after reading some of the reviews. Im glad I didnt because this punch is versatile. Unlike some reviews, even at the highest tension setting I had no problem using the punch and the range of adjustments was significant. At the lightest setting I used it on hard wood, plastic and thin steel which made a larger dent than on heavier metal. Unless youre a weakling, this may be the only punch you need.

This marking punch packs a wallop. It leaves a deep centering mark in the hardest steel. A great tool.

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.

Buy once cry once, the bar is set with this punch.

Starrett tools are made only with the finest of materials, performs everytime as designed, markings are outstanding and second to none. I never loan out tools ever as my Starrett tools will confess.