What a punch is
In this context, a punch is a hand tool: a hardened steel rod with a shaped tip, struck at the other end with a hammer. Punches are used to mark a surface, drive out pins or nails, or cut a hole. This is different from the boxing punches that sometimes appear in search results.
The number of punch types depends on how finely you divide them. Most sets include a few marking punches and a few driving punches, and there are specialty types beyond that.
Marking punches
Prick punch
A prick punch has a fine, sharp point and makes a small indentation used as a reference or layout mark. It is used to mark the position of a measurement or to give a divider a place to rest. It makes a small mark, so it is typically not used on its own to start a drill.
Center punch
A center punch has a blunter point than a prick punch, with a commonly quoted angle of around 90 degrees. It makes a larger dimple, which helps a drill bit start in position without wandering. A typical sequence is to mark with a prick punch, check the mark, and then enlarge it with a center punch.
Automatic center punch
This type is spring-loaded and makes the mark when you press down, with no hammer. It is convenient when one hand is needed to hold the work. Many have an adjustable strike force.
Driving punches
Pin punch
A pin punch has a straight shank along its length with a flat tip. It drives out small pins, such as roll pins or hinge pins, from holes. The tip should be a little smaller than the hole.
Drift punch
A drift punch is a heavier, often tapered punch used to drive out or align larger pins and bolts. The term is used loosely, and “drift” and “pin” are sometimes used interchangeably. Brass versions are available for use where a steel tool may damage a softer part.
Starter punch
A starter punch is a short, tapered punch with a larger tip diameter, used to begin moving a stuck pin before switching to a smaller pin punch.
Nail sets
A nail set, also called a nail punch, is a small punch with a tip designed to sit on the head of a finish nail. It is used to drive the head slightly below the surface so it can be filled. That answers a common question about what a nail punch is used for. Our guide to different types of hammers explains which hammer suits finish work.
Cutting punches
- Hollow punches have a sharpened hollow tube that cuts clean round holes in soft materials such as leather, gasket material and thin plastic.
- Gasket punches are a form of hollow punch used for making holes in gaskets.
Alignment and transfer punches
- Aligning punches are tapered rods used to line up holes in two parts so a bolt can pass through.
- Transfer punches fit a hole and mark the center on another surface, so you can copy a hole pattern.
What punch sets are used for
A set is usually used for marking drill positions, tapping out pins and aligning parts in mechanical work. Metalworking and auto repair are the most common settings. For wood, a nail set is the most common member of the family.
Choosing a set
- Pick a set that matches your work. A mechanic may want pin and drift punches, while a woodworker may only need a nail set.
- Look for hardened steel, with well-finished tips and a sturdy case.
- Consider brass or soft-faced punches for work on delicate parts.
Safe use and care
- Wear eye protection when striking punches.
- Use a hammer suited to metalworking. A ball peen or club hammer is often used for this.
- Replace a punch whose head has mushroomed, since chips may fly off.
- Hold the punch squarely on the surface, and strike it straight.
- Store punches in a case to protect the tips.
A punch is related to the chisel family, so see our guides to chisel types and masonry chisel types.
Frequently asked questions
What are the different types of punches in tools?
The main groups are marking punches, driving punches, cutting punches and alignment punches.
What is a nail punch used for?
It sets the head of a finish nail slightly below the surface.
How many types of punch tools are there?
It depends on how they are counted. Many sets contain around five or six common types.
What are punch sets used for?
For marking, driving pins, aligning parts, and sometimes cutting holes.