Joined: Jan Thu 01, 1970 1:00 am Posts: 1002 Location: Cambridge MN USA
I am working on a small project and I started thinking about using a punch instead of drill bits since the holes they produce are much cleaner. There are some specific drill sizes that will allow 6, 8 and 10-32 screws to clear without having too much slop, and others just slightly smaller which will allow the metal to be tapped for the same screws. Does anyone know if they make numbered punch sizes in addition to fractional sizes for something like a Whitney punch?
Joined: Jan Thu 01, 1970 1:00 am Posts: 1002 Location: Cambridge MN USA
That first picture would be close, though it only shows the driven part of the punch. There should be an accompanying set of dies with various matching size holes.
Those pilot point bits look interesting, too. I'd seriously consider getting some if they're available in number sizes. There's a Harbor Freight in Fargo ND that I pass by on a fairly regular basis.
Joined: Feb Sun 27, 2011 4:23 am Posts: 502 Location: Alabama Gulf Coast 36551
In the first pic think the base section holding the punches constitutes the die. And the clear plastic would be a guide. Came across these on HF the other week when looking for something similar - square punches.
Joined: May Tue 30, 2006 4:46 pm Posts: 4803 Location: Santa Rosa, CA
Harbor Freight used to sell a sheet metal punch kit (I have one) for about $25.
You can still buy the more expensive version if you search for "Whitney hand punch."
This is OK for punching holes near the perimeter of something, but has a limited "throat." Also, you can't locate holes very accurately with the punch, as you might with a drill.
Joined: Jan Thu 01, 1970 1:00 am Posts: 2755 Location: Gainesville, Florida
the only practical application is the pilot bit. although that could be achieved with a smaller bit graduating to a larger bit. the hole will be covered in the end anyway
Joined: Jan Sun 03, 2010 8:49 pm Posts: 199 Location: Winston-Salem, NC USA
Scott,
I would go to Roper Whitney’s web site and send an email asking about the sizes you want. I have one of their hand punches and several numbered dies for pop rivet holes sizes.
