Grip Nails

What Is a Center Punch?

A center punch is a hand tool used to mark the exact center point on a workpiece as a starting point for drilling. It keeps the drill bit from wandering off the mark, improving accuracy and reducing damage to the workpiece. Center punches are usually made from high-grade steel such as CRV (chrome vanadium) for hardness and durability under heavy use.

What a Center Punch Is Used For and How to Use It

A center punch marks points on metal, wood or plastic. You press the pointed tip onto the spot you want to mark to create a small dimple. This dimple acts as a "seat" that holds the drill tip square and in the correct position as you start drilling.

In engineering and structural assembly work, center punches are chosen to suit the job:

• Standard: Struck with a hammer to make the mark.
• Automatic (auto center punch): Uses an internal spring mechanism. Simply press the tip onto the workpiece and the mechanism releases to strike the tip and make the mark, no hammer needed.

Choosing Center Punch Sizes and Brands

Choose a center punch size based on the precision of the work and the size of the drill bit you will use next. Sizes range from fractions of an inch to several millimeters, which affects marking precision, and price varies with material grade and features.

Check technical details and choose the right size for your job at OneStockHome.