There are many factors to consider when purchasing a center punch for steel. The size and weight of the punch, the type of steel, the hardness of the steel, and the thickness of the steel are all important factors to consider. The best center punch for steel will vary depending on the application. For instance, a smaller punch may be better for softer steel, while a larger punch may be better for harder steel. Ultimately, the best center punch for steel will be the one that best meets the needs of the specific application.
A Comparison Table For The Best Center Punch For Steel
After analyzing hundreds of customer reviews, we have compiled a list of the best center punches for steel. We hope this list will help you choose the perfect center punch for your needs.
Rank | Image | Name | Rating | Price |
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01 |
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Starrett 18A Automatic Center Punch with Hardened Steel Metal | 4.8 | Check Current Price |
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Starrett 117C Center Punch With Round Shank | 4.8 | Check Current Price |
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Mayhew Tools 62215 Center Punch Kit, 4-Piece | 4.8 | Check Current Price |
04 | ![]() |
NEIKO 02638A 5-Inch Automatic Center Hole Punch | 4.5 | Check Current Price |
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General Tools SPC74 Round Shank Center Punches | 4.5 | Check Current Price |
06 | ![]() |
HORUSDY 2-Pack Super Strong 6″ Automatic Centre Hole Punch | 4.5 | Check Current Price |
07 | ![]() |
Automatic Center Punch 5 Inch Spring Loaded Center Punch Adjustable Tension Punch Tool for Metal Wood Glass Plastic | 4.5 | Check Current Price |
The Benefits Of Using Center Punch For Steel
A center punch is a hand tool used to create a dimple in a workpiece, typically steel. The dimple helps to prevent the drill bit from walking while drilling a hole.
There are several benefits to using a center punch on steel.
First, it creates a guide for the drill bit, which helps to ensure a straighter hole.
Second, the dimple created by the punch helps to keep the drill bit from slipping, which can result in a more accurate hole.
Finally, using a center punch can help to prolong the life of your drill bit by preventing it from walking or slipping.
01. Starrett 18A Automatic Center Punch with Hardened Steel Metal

The Starrett 18A Automatic Center Punch with Hardened Steel Metal is a versatile tool for both machinists and carpenters. The knurled cap on the punch can be adjusted to control the amount of force applied to the workpiece, making it perfect for a variety of applications. The hardened steel construction of the punch ensures durability and long-lasting performance.
FEATURES:
- The 18A Automatic Center Punch is a tool with a conical point, which is used to make an indentation in an object.
- This allows you to safely drill a hole at the same spot without slipping.
- Steel CONSTRUCTION: This Center Punch is made of hardened steel and has a knurled finger grip for ease of handling and greater punching control.
- Its tempered head makes it less likely to fracture from a hard, off-center blow.
- ADJUSTABLE FORCE: For a heavy mark, the cap is screwed down. Progressively lighter marks are obtained by turning the cap upward.
02. Starrett 117C Center Punch With Round Shank

This is a high-quality center punch with a round shank and a tapered point. It is 4″ long and has a diameter of 1/8″. It is made from high carbon steel for durability and long life.
FEATURES:
- The Country of Origin is the United States.
- Hardened and tempered steel provides wear resistance and strength.
- Round shank is knurled for grip.
- Item Package Dimension is 4.0″ L x 1.0″ W x 1.0″ H.
- The product has a good reputation with customers.
03. Mayhew Tools 62215 Center Punch Kit, 4-Piece

This is a four-piece center punch kit from Mayhew Tools. It includes a 3/8-inch, 1/2-inch, 5/8-inch, and 3/4-inch center punch. Each punch is made from heat-treated steel for durability and has a knurled body for a comfortable grip. This kit is ideal for creating pilot holes for starting screws, and for marking metal for drilling or machining.
FEATURES:
- Different point sizes for different hole sizes
- Black oxide finish for rust protection
- Comes in a set of 4
- Includes a 3/16-5mm, a 5/16-8mm, a 5/64-2mm, and a 1/8-3mm drill bit
- Made for piercing or marking metal and other materials
04. NEIKO 02638A 5-Inch Automatic Center Hole Punch

The NEIKO 02638A 5-Inch Automatic Center Hole Punch is a great addition to any workshop. It is a spring-loaded puncher tool that can be adjusted to create different-sized holes. This tool is perfect for punching through light gauge materials such as paper, cardboard, and plastic.
FEATURES:
- The center hole-punch tool is spring-loaded for easy use.
- The tool is designed for use with a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, metal, glass, and leather.
- The tool is compact and easy to grip, with a nonslip surface.
- The center punch tool is heavy-duty and features a reinforced steel tip.
- The tool is an all-in-one center punch, glass breaker, and awl.
05. General Tools SPC74 Round Shank Center Punches

The General Tools SPC74 Round Shank Center Punches are designed for use on a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. The set includes five punches, each with a different size and shape. The punches are made of high-quality steel for durability and long-lasting use.
FEATURES:
- The points are ground to size for maximum strength and penetration.
- The body is knurled for a secure grip.
- The size is stamped on the body for quick identification.
- The points come in a vinyl case for easy storage and transportation.
- The points are made of high-quality materials for durability and long-lasting use.
06. HORUSDY 2-Pack Super Strong 6″ Automatic Centre Hole Punch

This is a two-pack of super strong 6″ automatic center hole punches. They are adjustable impact punches that can be used to make clean, precise holes in a variety of materials. They are perfect for use on paper, cardstock, thin plastic, and more.
FEATURES:
- The design of the spring-loaded adjustable tip allows you to change the amount of force needed to make a mark.
- The tip is also hardened to extend the life of the punch.
- With one hand operation, you can make accurate marks without the need for a hammer.
- The industrial black and chrome finish with knurled body provides extra grip.
- The punch can also be used as an emergency tool to break side windows during a rescue.
07. Automatic Center Punch 5 Inch Spring Loaded Center Punch Adjustable Tension Punch Tool for Metal Wood Glass Plastic

This punch tool is perfect for making accurate pilot holes in metal, wood, glass, or plastic. It is 5 inches long and has a spring-loaded design for easy operation. The adjustable tension knob lets you control the depth of the punch, and the clear plastic cap protects the tip when not in use.
FEATURES:
- The Auto Center Punch Tool is a professional design that actually works and makes a solid mark in most projects.
- The tool is spring-loaded and adjustable, meaning that you can use it with different levels of force depending on the project.
- It is also portable, making it easy to take with you on the go.
- The tool is made of high quality steel, making it durable and long lasting.
- The tool comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can buy with confidence.
How To Use Center Punch For Steel
If you need to make a small dent or dimple in steel, you can use a center punch. A center punch is a small, hand-held tool that is used to make a dent in the surface of a piece of metal. It is also used to create a starting point for drilling a hole.
To use a center punch, first, select a drill bit that is the same size as the desired hole. Next, use a measuring tape to find the center of the area where you want to make the dent or hole. Once you have found the center, hold the center punch firmly in one hand and strike it with a hammer in the other hand. The force of the blow will create a small dent in the metal.
Now, you can use the center punch as a starting point for drilling the hole. Place the tip of the drill bit into the dent and begin drilling. Apply steady pressure as you drill and keep the drill bit level. Once the hole has been drilled, remove the drill bit and center punch.
How To Choose The Best Center Punch For Steel
If you’re looking for a center punch that can handle steel, there are a few things you’ll need to consider. The first is the size of the punch. Center punches come in a variety of sizes, so you’ll need to make sure you choose one that’s large enough to handle the steel you’re working with.
The next thing to consider is the type of steel you’re working with. If you’re working with soft steel, you won’t need a very strong center punch. However, if you’re working with hard steel, you’ll need a stronger punch.
Finally, you’ll need to consider the shape of the steel. Some steel is easier to punch than others. If you’re working with a difficult piece of steel, you may need to choose a different shape center punch.
With these factors in mind, you should be able to choose the best center punch for steel.
Conclusion:
The best center punch for steel reviews all recommend the same thing – the best center punch for steel is the one that is most comfortable for you to use. Different people have different preferences, so it is important to choose the one that feels best in your hand. The best center punch for steel is the one that will help you create the perfect holes in your steel projects.