Is a Cheap Center Punch Just as Good? Let’s Settle This!

Рет қаралды 559,030

8 ай бұрын

Automatic & Manual Center Punch Brands: Snap On, Starrett, Stahlwille, Proto, Hazet, GearWrench, Williams, Klein Tools, Wilde Tool, Mayhew Tools, Sabrecut, General Tools, Neiko, Spring Tools, Lisle, Mulwark. Punches compared for performance on Aluminum and Mild, Medium, and Hard Steel. Results are very interesting with a huge variance in performance and durability.
I bought all of the center punches and all of the supplies used to test the punches to ensure an unbiased review. So, thank you for supporting the channel!
➡ Thank you for supporting the channel through memberships:
/ @projectfarm
➡ Thank you very much for supporting the channel through Patreon: / projectfarm
➡ An easy way to find past videos along with products tested: bit.ly/2FCrBpk A big thanks to Jim for putting this together.
➡ Merch: project-farm.com
➡ Click here if you'd like to subscribe: / @projectfarm
➡ As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
➡ Products Tested In This Video (in no particular order):
Spring Tools: amzn.to/3oKTAdG
Stahlwille: amzn.to/3qmfNiC (no longer available)
Starrett Manual: amzn.to/45JYxDW
Starrett Automatic: amzn.to/3C8crCk
Williams: amzn.to/43xzfac
GearWrench: amzn.to/43DKRIV
Klein Tools: amzn.to/3WJr5cS
Mayhew Tools: amzn.to/3ONB7HN
Wilde Tool: amzn.to/3ORgbzL
Hazet: amzn.to/43gPicX
Proto: amzn.to/3N6nnWr
Sabrecut: amzn.to/3C8uR68
General Tools: amzn.to/3qlrOVq
Mulwark: amzn.to/45F53vU
Neiko: amzn.to/3CqxnF3
Lisle: amzn.to/3IU76lT
Snap On: Available at the online Snap On store
Digital Dial Indicator: amzn.to/43gnJAD
Videography Equipment:
Sony DSC-RX10 III Cyber-shot Digital Still Camera: amzn.to/2YdXvPw
Canon 70D Camera: amzn.to/31b5Gy0
Azden Microphone: amzn.to/34d3DLE
Go Pro Bundle: amzn.to/3Ca0ZVN
This video is only for entertainment purposes. If you rely on the information portrayed in this video, you assume the responsibility for the results. Project Farm LLC

Пікірлер: 3 500

@WoodLineWorker 8 ай бұрын

Todd doesn’t do what most other KZfaq channels do, like live streams, q&a, shorts etc…and has almost 3 MILLION subscribers. He’s literally had an episode on paint, and rust. And we watch it, 😆. Shows just how awesome this channel is. Keep up the great work dude!

@goodun2974 8 ай бұрын

My go-to attitude towards "Shorts!" Is *NO*. Just no. Unless it's Project Farm intentionally short-circuiting batteries to test for fire danger and electrical safety! 💥 🔥 😉😄

@yaroslavpanych2067 8 ай бұрын

There is actually one sort of qna video.. I mean it doesn't test anything, it is just "About me"

@marcelo403polo2 8 ай бұрын

Agreed. I literally unsubscribed from every chanel bombarding my notifications with their POS shorts

@thewhitedread7572 8 ай бұрын

He understood the assignment and everything project delivers

@zendell37 8 ай бұрын

I'm waiting for him to do a video on grass seed or fertilizer so he gets us to watch grass grow.

@benmiller5015 8 ай бұрын

It'd be cool to see a part 2 where you see how many hits they take to dull the tip, then try resharpening all the punches n see if theres any decrease in tip strength

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thank you for the video idea!

@peterparsons7141 8 ай бұрын

That’s a good idea. I think everyone who’s ruined a punch will grind and new point and keep going.

@donwest5387 8 ай бұрын

shouldn't be if you don't over-heat the tip.

@peterparsons7141 8 ай бұрын

@@donwest5387 that’s what I was thinking, I’ve had some success when I go slow, and use coolant. The ones I’ve destroyed because I was in a hurry. Live and learn.

@donwest5387 8 ай бұрын

grind the tip with the punch parallel to the stone, grinding free-hand off the top of the stone.@@peterparsons7141

@BrendonGillespie 8 ай бұрын

I think a comparison of hand file sets would be a good video, I know there are many types of files out there but they are very versatile tools. Thank you for everything you do Todd! :)

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You are welcome! Thanks for the suggestion.

@sasquatchrosefarts 8 ай бұрын

@@ProjectFarmerror: I just watched your ratcheting wrench comparison.....and as you test the jaws and play, you forgot that the handle thickness varies as the measurement point moves into the micrometer. So you raise the wrench up and the device is measuring a thicker point on the handle......so you measure change in handle thickness and you aren't measuring open end wrench play.

@zetsumeinaito 7 ай бұрын

@@sasquatchrosefarts I find the handle to come into play in real life settings though. Often knocking between engine and body or other tight spaces. So while I see what you're talking about, I actually like that the handle is in the test.

@PrimeToolbox 7 ай бұрын

My bet goes to Pferd and Vallorbe for best files

@Jim.Lake. 6 ай бұрын

@@sasquatchrosefartsright ok. how can you use a ratchet if the handle is out of space to move? Tight spaces are where that matters which a thicker handle will affect.

@evangates1547 8 ай бұрын

Hey I’ve been a Machinist for about 1 year now and I’ve been watching you since highschool. I’d love to see a comparison test of cheap vs expensive metrology equipment. They’ll probably both be accurate but I’m mostly thinking of wear in the lead screw and amount of damage the faces can take! Keep up the good work!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks, will do! Thanks for the suggesion.

@shatteredreality1987 8 ай бұрын

Hey that would be a great video!!

@garyogreen6958 8 ай бұрын

Have you done best wobble/ flex joint sockets yet ?

@advancedcoffeemachine1025 8 ай бұрын

did something similar to this recently with my grandfather, compared the accuracy of all the metrological equipment around the workshop and came to the conclusion of, if you need cheap calipers, don't buy dial calipers, as only the expensive ones seem to hold up to the test of time. For micrometers, cheap is fine for metric but you'll be hard pressed to find a cheap tenths micrometer.

@mgriffin42455 8 ай бұрын

If it will repeat, you're as good as your standard is.

@Foxholeatheist 8 ай бұрын

I can't help but think the Starrett auto punch you got was a QC fail from the factory. Would be interesting to grind the tip to a point and see how it performs.

@Pinz314 8 ай бұрын

All the Starrett auto punches i know/use have a sharp tip. So a defect or a different type. To bad it happens in a lot of test that there are apples to oranges comparisons by not selecting the comparible type/line from the differend manufactures.

@VentureCat 8 ай бұрын

Yeah it seems like it must have snuck through their quality department. It would be bad for a company to knowingly allow a defective part to be sent to market

@jc40337 8 ай бұрын

I’m thinking it’s a counterfeit rather than a QC fail honestly.

@vascofp 8 ай бұрын

My starter automatic center punch is sharp as a needle, probably a fluke or a fake, very surprising

@rogerfluhr5652 8 ай бұрын

Todd, I own a Starrett 18C automatic punch and it has a very sharp tip. I think you got a defective one.

@vincentgoforth6082 8 ай бұрын

As someone who has went through my fair share of center punches, I can appreciate the value of information given in this video 👍👍

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Glad it was helpful!

@elduderino1329 8 ай бұрын

Did you loose them or you just don't know how to sharpen them?

@hgec 8 ай бұрын

@@ProjectFarmHi, I would be happy with you to check dry lubrication? That is, either dry materials called graphite, or liquid materials that dry and produce a lubricating layer. I'm mostly interested in this for locks, because liquid lubricant causes dirt to build up until the mechanism jams. So that you check a few things - how fast it dries, how sticky the material stays, does it also clean the mechanism and remove dirt, does it protect the mechanism against rust, and does it really manage to make the mechanism work smoothly.

@dynmc 8 ай бұрын

The best center punch I have used is a needle form a diesel fuel injector.

@Semajal 8 ай бұрын

Been using a spring tools punch for a year or two on and off with mild steel and have been hugely happy with it, this just confirms it was a very wise purchase! Fantastic work as always!!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks! Thanks for sharing.

@claytownsend5997 8 ай бұрын

I’ve had a snap-on center punch for 10 years as a professional metal fabricator. Mostly working with mild steel, I’ve only sharpened it 2-3 times.

@artjomkorolev222 8 ай бұрын

This channel is a national treasure! The amount of objective information is staggering!!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thank you for sharing!

@johnsmith9161 8 ай бұрын

Outstanding yet again@@ProjectFarm

@tickandslug 8 ай бұрын

I've been a machinist for almost a decade and I'll stand by my starrett center punch. It has never not worked for me, looks great, and it also matches a lot of my metrology tools.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

@hahahahaballs 8 ай бұрын

Yeah I have the exact same automatic punch that was tested. I almost believe he got a manufacturing defect because mine has a sharp point and zero issues with steel

@wllwll-zh7ig 8 ай бұрын

@@hahahahaballsAmazon probably gave him a Chinese replica Startett auto center punch.

@wllwll-zh7ig 8 ай бұрын

Starrett, like Rolex is the most faked.

@PowerScissor 8 ай бұрын

@@hahahahaballsThey come with different tip "sharpness" levels. The one in the video is for when you're going to use a larger diameter drill, and you have the sharper one.

@MrJohnnaz 8 ай бұрын

I'll vouch for the Starrett 18A auto punch's durability, still going strong after 30+ years of hard use. I think its had maybe 10 tips over the years and I grind them till they can't be used anymore.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for the feedback.

@anvilsvs 8 ай бұрын

Maybe I need a Starrett. I've never had an autopunch work for long. And I've used lots of them.

@MrJohnnaz 8 ай бұрын

@@anvilsvs Yes you do, at the risk of sounding like an add. I would get the bigger unit though, I have had some times were I wished for a little more "wallop" than the 18-A could deliver. Other than that it seems to be a lifetime unit.

@eltigre_01 4 ай бұрын

I think the one he bought was a lemon; Starrett has always been reliable to me.

@anthonyblacker8471 8 ай бұрын

Great to see the different punches, I have a very old set that were my grandfather's and there's no name on them but they're harder than anything I've ever used them on!! Thank you for the hard work you're the best creator on KZfaq!!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You are welcome!

@lilblairjr193 8 ай бұрын

I love this guy

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thank you!

@throttlebeholder 8 ай бұрын

Absolute Hero.

@aisforannihilation1662 8 ай бұрын

The consumer's savior!

@daveunknown01 8 ай бұрын

@@tsx3214well yeah, hes getting paid to do it.

@watchingdanny 8 ай бұрын

I can't believe how many were made in the USA. Wish more things were this way. Great video as always. Thank you.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You're welcome!

@veryfunclub 8 ай бұрын

Mayhew and Wilde make punches/chisels/pry bars for practically every brand that sells ones made in USA. You’re essentially just picking between those two brands

@janosszabo98 8 ай бұрын

Two reasons. Labour and shipping. Labour is expensive in the US, but these tools basically vomited out by a machine at the push of a button, so not really labour intense to make. Shipping is also expensive, especially heavy things (imagine what a shipping container would weight full to the top with these). If you can make something for cheap, and you can make it where you intend to sell it is a no brainer.

@nmatthew7469 8 ай бұрын

@@janosszabo98shipping is too much nowadays so thankfully the manufacturing of hand tools is returning to north America. Milwaukee USA made being an example.

@JimGarver-tx8rj 8 ай бұрын

I have two Starrett automatic center punches. When I use one I always follow with a conventional center punch to get a proper dimple to start a drill. I do learn a lot watching your videos.

@dwightcarlson7136 8 ай бұрын

That's what I also do.

@jasond.8281 8 ай бұрын

I like the Spring Tools punch for setting nails. No other nail punch I have found has the speed and force needed to set small 18 gauge finish nails when they fail to go all the way in.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing.

@sonnygreen1396 8 ай бұрын

I have the Spring Tools nail set and hinge pin remover and they both work far better than the alternatives I've used in the past.

@tomsko863 8 ай бұрын

*WARNING* : I have a Spring Tool center punch and I'm glad it performed well in your tests but I will say the actual design of it might be a deal-breaker for many people. If you want a precision tool, it might not be for you. It takes more practice to use so you don't move off your mark. Also, it would be near impossible to use properly if you were working in tight spaces as it requires 2 hands to be on the tool.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

@peterparsons7141 8 ай бұрын

I was going to try the springtool punch, but if figured if I could use two hands I would use a manual punch. The benefits I see of the auto is one handed operation, and all the automatics I’ve tried work on soft material but fail on the hard alloys.

@boosted2.4_sky 8 ай бұрын

@@peterparsons7141Where it really shines is when you don't have room to actually swing a hammer enough to get a good shot... The spring tools punches are great... Worth having in my opinion.

@williamletts9487 8 ай бұрын

We use the spring tool punches with the fire department as a glass breaker, and they work absolutely amazing for that. I've seen them break plenty of windows that the push punches just can't

@sproutpits 8 ай бұрын

@@williamletts9487 I use a device with the same design to remove door hinge pins, and another to adjust dovetail gun sights. It's a really cool design where it works, but I agree with the earlier comment that they aren't all that precise.

@andreyka64 8 ай бұрын

At this point , like 90% of my garage tools are solely purchased because they passed the Project Farm test.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Wow, thank you for sharing!

@user-pk2fg8im4u 8 ай бұрын

Off topic a little, I grew up on a farm, stayed there all my working life. Back about 65 years my dad bought some chisels and punches from a traveling salesman. I still remember that day. The brand was Lesota, I still have them and still use them, they are fantastic tools. That fellow came by for years, and I have quite a few striking tools that he sold to us. Googled them, incorporated in 1945, dissolved in 1990, headquarters in MN. They sure made some great tools. This video sparked those memories, thank you Todd.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You are welcome! Thanks for sharing.

@benhall2146 8 ай бұрын

I think you deserve a ton of respect for ingenuity on your testing setups. It really shows tools in real world scenarios!!!! Love your work!!!!!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks so much!

@DragonSneeze 8 ай бұрын

I use the Starrett auto at work when I break glass. The tips we get are considerably sharper though, might be a choosable option.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

@vr66luke 8 ай бұрын

I’m pretty sure it was a defect. Shame Starrett quality is sliding

@ToolShow 8 ай бұрын

I mean this… only Todd could make me watch a video about center punches… to completion. >.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

lol. Thank you!

@LifesAbe-ach 7 ай бұрын

Best center punch is made often from other tooling .... A SDS drill bit top is one of the best options . 35 years plating and welding and i still use the same centre punch i made from a SDS drill bit nearly 30 years ago .

@TheSaw410 4 ай бұрын

Well I have something to do tomorrow morning in my shop!

@beeleo 8 ай бұрын

To armchair quarterback, I've found that it's so easy to do multiple hits with automatic center punches. I know that could also be done with a manual center punch but it's really easy to just push that automatic one down a couple of time. It would be interesting to have seen what a 2nd strike for some of those automatic center punches would have done.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for the constructive feedback.

@HypocriticYT 8 ай бұрын

Amazing the amount of effort put into all your videos. I’m sure it’s appreciated by millions 😊

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thank you very much!

@dirtfarmer7472 8 ай бұрын

At least it is by me

@Mittencarpentry 8 ай бұрын

I don’t do much with metal, but I’m very pleased with my spring tools nail sets. They are extremely convenient when setting proud nails into wood. Better than using a hammer and nail set, and they hit plenty hard enough to set trim nails.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thank you for sharing!

@wallingj68 8 ай бұрын

I also love using the hinge pin remover version as well. Much more compact when you're trying to get the bottom hinge, and you're less likely to dent or scratch the door or trim with a misplaced hammer blow.

@joebryant5793 8 ай бұрын

I've never bought a center punch in my life. I still have the one we had to make in High School Machine Shop class back in 1976. Has been in my tool box for 40+ years as a mechanic. Has only needed a handful of resharpening. Thank you Mr Fetter(teacher).

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing.

@ninjaduck3534 2 ай бұрын

What an extraordinarily useful, no BS video. Thank you!

@ProjectFarm 2 ай бұрын

You are welcome!

@1903tx 8 ай бұрын

I'm surprised to see the dull Starrett punch. I've got a Starrett 18-C punch I purchased in about 2015 or 2016 and it's still pretty sharp.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

@joshuateter2410 8 ай бұрын

I also have and use daily a Starrett 18C. It is probably my favorite punch. It works perfect for aluminum, and steels I use it as a starter punch and follow through with a hammer and traditional punch. Interestingly enough the tip did get pretty deformed after only a year or so of use. I've had to chick it in a drill to regrind it a few times. Pretty annoying. I guess when it truly wears out I'll have to try finding a replacement.

@sjjenkins11 8 ай бұрын

Dang I like your videos. No bs, no long long drawn out crap. Everything I wanna know in a quick easy to follow cadence. Thank you sir.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thank you for the feedback!

@electronicsNmore 8 ай бұрын

Great testing as always! An extremely useful tool to have on hand when you need to drill holes in steel at a precise location.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks!

@Will_Reed 2 ай бұрын

Thanks for doing this video. Ive been wanting to get a new center punch and this video made my decision very easy.

@KingJKickz 8 ай бұрын

Project farm gives EVERYDAY test that people could understand and do themselves This is why he’s the GOAT I watch cuz I enjoy the education of the video I don’t use any of this stuff 😂😂😂

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thank you very much!

@ReverendSaucy 8 ай бұрын

Another great video. I use center punches occasionally, but never really thought about "good" vs "bad" ones, so I didn't even know I needed this video. I appreciate your hard work!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks and you are welcome!

@luiscards 4 ай бұрын

Excellent video as usual. I truly love your insight in all your videos. Thank you

@ProjectFarm 4 ай бұрын

Thanks and you are welcome!

@cyber8000 8 ай бұрын

It'd be cool to see how levels compare, for such a seemingly simple tool there's a ton of options with a huge range of prices. Like on a 48" level there's one at $10 and another at $149

@ianbutler1983 8 ай бұрын

Oh, good idea! Todd reads these for ideas, so he might do it.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Great suggestion! Thanks!

@NirreFirre 8 ай бұрын

Stabila must be represented with at least 2 models!

@starbuckqbb2287 8 ай бұрын

@@ProjectFarmseconded.

@charliesullivan4304 8 ай бұрын

@@ProjectFarmit will be tricky to do levels, because you might have a brand with really loose quality control, but happen to get one that's exactly correct right out of the box, just by luck.

@MattLitkeRacing 8 ай бұрын

I have a whole set of the Starrett manual punches. I like the sharpness of the tip. It’s great for projects that need more accuracy

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

@I-Love-Taylor-Swift 8 ай бұрын

Love this guy! Always great narration from him and great videos. Thanks Project Farm :-)

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks and you are welcome!

@gjk1504 8 ай бұрын

I really enjoy all these tool reviews! Thank for taking the time to make them.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks and you are welcome!

@jordantobins681 8 ай бұрын

My only comment is that you are simply amazing. Your videos, your attention to detail, your testing methods, and your explanations are unparalleled anywhere else. Thank you as always!!!

@cyphre 8 ай бұрын

Regarding the Starrett automatic center punch, I had to check mine to make sure, but you definitely received one that was used or damaged. Mine has a perfectly sharp tip on it. Possible someone attempted to use it on something very hard, and then returned it as if it was never used. Granted, I use mine for mostly aluminum, so I'm not sure you'd see that much better results outside of aluminum. Some nice options otherwise!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

@tshackelton 8 ай бұрын

That's part of the test though, When you spend for a starrett you are paying for QA.... or should be. I'm sure a review unit would have been perfect, but that's why it's so important to just buy it and see what you actually get in the box as a consumer. In this case, a POS... super disappointing, I expected starrett to run away with this.

@richtes 8 ай бұрын

@@tshackeltonYes if purchased direct from the manufacturer, but I’ve gotten (and returned) some questionable items from Amazon and other retailers.

@fredinit 8 ай бұрын

Todd, Agreed - you might want to check with Starrett on that auto center punch - looks like someone may have abused it and sent it back to wherever you purchased it from. I wholeheartedly agree with your no-gifts stance for testing, but when something is as off-kilter as this, you would be doing us, your viewers, a disservice to not check/confirm your results with the manufacturer. It is very possible you have a forgery as well.

@ToolsandTime 8 ай бұрын

Awesome video and technical--definitely a good discussion about punches and durability, Thank you!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks and you are welcome!

@dogsbyfire 7 ай бұрын

Another great video. Thank you! Been waiting for this one.

@ProjectFarm 7 ай бұрын

Thanks!

@randysavage8963 8 ай бұрын

As always thanks a lot Todd for what I know will be a fantastic test. VERY IMPRESSIVE

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thank you very much!

@kaimelis 8 ай бұрын

As other comments mentioned, tip durability, especially for the loaded punches would be an ESSENTIAL factor. I find that using a loaded punch is much much more convenient that having to hit the classic punch with a hammer. For harder materials (or if i want a larger spot) I just spring punch a few times in the same spot and thats it. Thats why durability of those tipos is critical.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for the feedback.

@alexkay1874 8 ай бұрын

Thorough as usual Thanks .

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You are welcome!

@thedevildick1 8 ай бұрын

Great video Todd! Thanks!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks and you are welcome!

@mauriziovolpi7691 8 ай бұрын

Thank you for the big efforts each week!!!! Cheers from Italy!!!!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Greetings and thank you very much!

@gus473 8 ай бұрын

🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹😎✌️

@peterparsons7141 8 ай бұрын

Good analysis video. My experiences are similar to your results, and curious about different brands you tested. Many modern alloys are a challenge to center punch. manual punches are a must have, the automatics have let me down and I end up using a manual. I’ve used, abused, and destroyed several automatics. The Starret wins because they replaced, or provided a repair kit promptly. The automatics are useful for multiple one handed punches on softer metals and that’s their limit. The manual Starret and Snap-on have stood the test of time, some are 50+ years and still going. However I have ruined several of both on very hard steel alloys. Good video, and thanks a lot for saving me from endlessly searching for an automatic for use on hard metals.

@kevkev5935 8 ай бұрын

You do the most concise and quantitative tool reviews I've seen. Great content.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks!

@dlcarburetor 8 ай бұрын

This one was a great idea. I've gone through a number of center punches over the years. The results here are interesting. Not quite what I expected. Thanks for great content

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You are welcome!

@bradbyers7505 8 ай бұрын

I’m so glad you did this comparison. Two takeaways come to mind immediately- 1. The Starrett brand surprised me the most by its under performance, and 2. I have bought a couple of different brands of spring loaded automatic punches over the years, and have returned almost as many. So many have failed to “cock or recock” when used. Another KZfaqr remarked that customers should buy three or four of the Harbor Freight ones and keep the one that works. My sentiments exactly.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks! Thanks for the feedback.

@mrbmp09 8 ай бұрын

bradbyers7505 I agree, but you can apply this logic to most any other brand compared to buying snap on brand, it's not just HF brand . This negates the main convenience "advantage" of buying overpriced snap on tools. You already have 2 to 6 of the same tool for backup for immediate use VS waiting a week or more for the truck to arrive.

@mickk8519 8 ай бұрын

I've had both the manual and auto Starrett punches since the 70's, never had a problem with either, and my auto came with a point from new. Obviously the manual punch is better on tool steels than the auto, horses for courses.

@eliprince1 8 ай бұрын

I have the starrett auto, it is supposed to come with a sharp tip. They should send you another one

@sethmurrow 8 ай бұрын

Lol, sounds like a sports announcer. Better than any sports game I've ever watched.

@1123pawel 8 ай бұрын

Just what I needed! Thank you!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You're so welcome!

@LawpickingLocksmith 8 ай бұрын

Showdown with sound effects! I am blown away!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks!

@chrisg7504 7 ай бұрын

I have the spring tools 2 piece set. I use the punch often, especially in tight places you cant swing a hammer. But I really enjoy the flat head punch for pushing door hinge pins. It is "very impressive." Thank you for your no-nonsense reviews.

@brodriguez11000 6 ай бұрын

Door hinge pins and I found a drawer pull as well.

@californiaholtz 8 ай бұрын

Good comparison, thanks Todd! Too bad about that automatics Starrett having a terrible tip as shipped. I would have loved to see how well a resharpened tip would have performed.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thank you for the video idea!

@andreashenriksen1485 8 ай бұрын

I haven't personally used a single "store bought" punch ever since I made my own, from a piece of the suspension spring on a car. It's been over a year since I made it and i've used it A LOT and i've never resharpened it. Works absolutely amazing

@b-radfrommalibu 8 ай бұрын

Same

@stevenkelby2169 8 ай бұрын

Show us. Got a video?

@therealstubot 8 ай бұрын

Same. I like using 4340 or O1 to make center punches, drift punches, pin punches, roll punches, chisels, etc... My starret punches sit in the toolbox, primarily because they're round and roll around while I'm working. I have a couple of overload springs a buddy gave me when he busted one. Working it is real drama, unless it's annealed. I will try using that material next time.

@andreashenriksen1485 8 ай бұрын

@@stevenkelby2169 I don't have any pictures or videoes unfortunately. I could make a video of it being used though

@stevenkelby2169 8 ай бұрын

@@andreashenriksen1485 Thanks! Even just a rough description of the way you made it?

@zafarsyed6437 8 ай бұрын

Cool! I was actually just looking at purchasing a couple of new metal center punches just earlier in the weekend! Good thing I waited a few more hours to have caught this vid. Thanks for the deep dive info

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You are welcome!

@zafarsyed6437 8 ай бұрын

@ProjectFarm Is it possible for you to list a "highly recommended" or "more likely than not to make you feel comfortable with purchasing" list of 2 to 4 items, from each video, on your website? These could be in a particular order as well. Separate from the description of the video, which has them in "no particular order"... Just wondering, cause website would be considered separate entity?

@snaXaminator 8 ай бұрын

Once again, your channel proven it's the most useful whensomeone collect info before buying tools. Also we've seen once again: not always the most expensive tool is the best. Thank you!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You are welcome!

@Falcon500xw 8 ай бұрын

So I have the Starrett automatic centre punch (when I got it, there were two choices of spring tension, and I bought the heavier of them). My punch head (still) looks dramatically more pointed than the one as seen in test. I do find it at the highest tension setting to be overly heavy for the size hole it punches. However, I think I may have only once experienced a punched hole that was not sufficient for stopping a drill bit from walking over the face. Thanks for the test! Logical, but still somewhat surprising results! Edit: stuttering thumb with StarretT

@deeshrier7444 8 ай бұрын

I've also got the Sterrett Auto spring punch. The tip on it is not blunt like the one you used. You may have received a faulty product. Maybe you can get it exchanged for a sharp tipped product and retry the tests. 16:45

@rcnthusiast 8 ай бұрын

I concur. My 15 year hold Starrett auto punch has a sharp point (still). I would say PF received a defective punch.

@MrGiXxEr 8 ай бұрын

Been WAITING for this!🤘 Thank you!🍻 Auto punches are great tools for firefighters to break glass.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You bet!

@drippingwax 8 ай бұрын

@@ProjectFarmI once went down a rabbit hole on emergency tools, like the hammer-shaped window breaker and seatbelt cutter that doesn't do any good sitting by my computer. Everyone said to just use a bit of broken ceramic from a spark plug, but when I looked into that it was far more difficult than they made it seem--of course.

@drippingwax 8 ай бұрын

Mr. Todd, Sir, will you please compare emergency automotive tools? Thanks! :D

@georgem4713 8 ай бұрын

@@drippingwax Yes, that is a great idea.

@TehButterflyEffect 8 ай бұрын

@@drippingwaxMy knives have had glass breakers on them for years.

@jd14985 8 ай бұрын

Another Awesome Video, Thanks for the information, as I need one! Probably gonna buy one tomorrow!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks!

@Quassar1972 8 ай бұрын

I have used a General tool auto punch for over 20 years on all types of steels and metals and it still works perfectly. I am very pleased to see it in this comparison. Thanks as always for being so thorough.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You are welcome!

@logresmentotum7065 8 ай бұрын

Surprised the Starrett auto suffered qa/qc issue, but this was still a great test. Thanks, Todd!!

@bigc6825 8 ай бұрын

It was probably a counterfeit

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

No problem!

@bakedpotato1735 8 ай бұрын

Thank you for the videos that you post.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

My pleasure!

@AntonioClaudioMichael 8 ай бұрын

What a great testing video always giving us viewers as much information as possible @Project Farm

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks!

@nuGGet909 8 ай бұрын

needed this test amazing timing

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks!

@kugel7719 8 ай бұрын

these are really impressive results. a 0.03"-0.04" punch is significant. that would literally go all the way through some automotive body pannels

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for the feedback.

@jacobcohn546 8 ай бұрын

Would love to see the PB swiss punches tested, I've used both their steel and carbide tipped punches and have found I prefer them slightly to snap on punches. The fit and finish is exceptionally good :)

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for the suggestion.

@kittytrail 8 ай бұрын

@@ProjectFarm adding some euro-made center punches from Facom, Rennsteig or Eclipse to the PB Swiss would be great as would be a few automatic japanese ones from SunFlag and Vessel along with some OEMs like the Fowler branded ones sold in the US. don't forget to test the cheap chinese/HF stuff too! 😉

@_allthegoodonesaretaken_ 8 ай бұрын

Thanks PF You are the best!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You are welcome!

@charleywalker2982 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing your unbiased reviews and keep them coming please.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks, will do!

@SalminenTeemu 8 ай бұрын

With automatic punches you might want to also test the mechanism durability. I have gone through a few, they just don't strike anymore or only do so sometimes at a weird angle. I've only used them in aluminium and some mild steel, so the tips are usually in perfect condition but that is not any help when the tool beomes a scribe with suspension ^^

@kittytrail 8 ай бұрын

been using a Starrett-made Würth rebrand for close to 15 years now and no problem with mechanism durability, same with a couple of made in Japan Sunflag models, 185 and 188, the first one being carbide tipped and no problem with those two too. i'm sure other manufacturers make good, durable ones but it might take a bit of research and testing to find them. 😗👌 quick tip for reducing punch head mushrooming: use a hard plastic no rebound hammer, the PB Swiss ones with the discs inside are really good but most will do with manual center punches when using the propper size. same with and impact driver, it does prolong their life greatly. 😉👍

@brazilnut8898 8 ай бұрын

For thirty years now I've been using a 3/8-18 tap for a center punch. I always thought it was a nono to strike hardened steel but it doesn't have any chips and the point is still sharp after a thousand strikes.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

@spevakdesigns 8 ай бұрын

Did it start out as a 3/8-16 and you've compressed the thread pitch by hitting it? Eventually it could become a 3/8-24! 😂

@MCHeavyDuty 8 ай бұрын

Great video as always! Thank you! Would be interesting to see a video on borescopes and fault finders

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks! Thanks for the video idea.

@tommybounds3220 8 ай бұрын

Thank you for the video.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You are welcome!

@WarthogDoctor 8 ай бұрын

Good as always, however I believe the bounce in your first test is a function of where it hits on the length of the aluminum plank, therefore introduces errors to the testing you did. I think you should have secured the test pieces to control results.

@reddubzsmash6889 8 ай бұрын

I would love to see a comparison on roll punches!! I've spent too much money on roll punches that bend or mushroom! Love the content, keep it up!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

@kittytrail 8 ай бұрын

to limit punch head mushrooming, try using a no rebound plastic tipped hammer. same with an impact driver. 😉

@reddubzsmash6889 8 ай бұрын

@kittytrail Thanks for the advice, I've been using a brass gunsmithing hammer. I should have probably clarified, but the actual punch side is the one I'm having issues with mushrooming. I appreciate it.

@kittytrail 8 ай бұрын

@@reddubzsmash6889 if they mushroom on the flat that is in contact with the roll pin and if you're in the US or in a place with a good truck or industrial dealer, get Snap-on (or some other lifetime warrantied quality ones of your choice) and warranty them when needed as, in the long run, it'll probably be cheaper. good job on using a brass hammer on 'em. 😗👌 edit: if it's the pin that mushrooms it's probably either because you're not careful enough with their handling, placement before whackin' and/or storage or because the pin diameter isn't adequate. if the later, try different makes 'til you find the right one for your job, if former, mend your evil ways! 🤭

@cocarr1 8 ай бұрын

Another great test! Thank you.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks and you are welcome!

@DarrylF85 8 ай бұрын

That was great, thank you. I’ve seen the spring tools style centre punch around and was wondering how they compared, so I’m glad to know now

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks and you are welcome!

@sandmaker 8 ай бұрын

I was suprised at how well they all did. Thanks for the great and innovation tests. 😷⚒

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You are welcome!

@user-te3kv5ob9f 8 ай бұрын

This channel is amazing , always fun, innovative and informative. A very good idea would be testing electrical fish tapes to see what does what.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thank you for the video idea!

@gus473 8 ай бұрын

And make sure there's a rust-resistance test in there!

@MrLongshot762 8 ай бұрын

I've been using the harbor freight automatic punch for years. I'm happy with the performance for $3.99.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

@MapleMonarchy 8 ай бұрын

I’ve always wanted to know which is best. I was very happy to see this in my feed. Thank you Project Farm! Love your videos

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You are so welcome!

@SonOfGalactus 8 ай бұрын

It's not often I use one but a center punch, and a good one is a must have. Thanks for sharing this!! I've always wondered about those spring punches...looks like I'll be picking one up after this! Great video as always, keep it up!!!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks, will do!

@bvon336 8 ай бұрын

Todd love the content! As a contractor I’d love a comparison of different 14” diamond blade concrete saw blades. They vary immensely in terms of $$ and design.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for the video idea. Thanks for the suggestion.

@tabcreedence6553 8 ай бұрын

Great vid! A comparison of multi tool blades would be interesting, cutting through soft wood, hardwood and nails.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thank you for the video idea!

@donhappel9566 8 ай бұрын

Excellent idea. While I love my Leatherman Wave, the quality of the blade steel isn't great to say the least.

@Venusdietrap 8 ай бұрын

I didn’t even know I needed to see this! Great video!

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks!

@gabesmith2741 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for the thorough testing you do on your channel. I would love to see you test OBD2 readers/scanners. I have a new Civic with Electronic parking break and will need a good scanner and your testing would be essential for my purchase. Thanks again for what you do. So helpful.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks and you are welcome! Thanks for the suggestion.

@meenstreek 8 ай бұрын

In the battle of the 'manual punches', it's truly poetic justice that the Stahlwille came out on top by delivering a celestial body-sized blow! For those counting on automatic efficiency, the sprint tool gave a 'spring' to everyone’s steel-lifting dreams! Not sure if it's the muscle in the tools or the weight of the Todd's words, but something’s surely been hammered home today!

@TranceFur 8 ай бұрын

You sound ridiculous.

@MrKalashnikov47 8 ай бұрын

Starrett is one of those brands that ages like whiskey, I bought a hole saw kit 15 years ago, still works wonderfully.

@SqueezeMonger 8 ай бұрын

Yes exactly, I think the auto Starrett had a manufacturing issue or was fake

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for the feedback.

@1steelcobra 8 ай бұрын

I've got the woodworking version of the Spring Tools one with a nail set on the other end, it's a fantastic tool that doesn't require a hammer for marking drilling points in wood and drywall.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing.

@DemitriosX 8 ай бұрын

As a machinist I appreciate this video. Thank you.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You are welcome! Glad to hear!

@ForfeMac 8 ай бұрын

Mayhew or Wilde are all my punches and chisels. Made in the USA and available at my local hardware stores

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thank you for the information!

@nobodycares85 8 ай бұрын

One of the things that videos like this demonstrates very well is that the price of a tool is not automatically indicative of its quality. Great testing as always. Thanks for another informative video.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks and you are welcome!

@MikeB-ff6zr 5 ай бұрын

I was thinking the same thing. The best tools are usually expensive. But all the expensive tools aren't always the best.

@whoobi1 8 ай бұрын

Thanks alot . You are the one . Appreciate it

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks and you are welcome!

@georgeferlazzo7936 8 ай бұрын

Hello again, Project Farm Thank you for another Great Video 👍

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

You are welcome!

@madcow3417 8 ай бұрын

I got sick of auto punches breaking on me. Even my nice Starrett one is constantly misfiring now. I started using a hammer/punch combo again.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

@SammyInnit 8 ай бұрын

Did your starrett rust up quickly? I felt mine rusted up in no time.

@tomsko863 8 ай бұрын

I have the Spring Tools "spring punch" and it's major problem is operating it so it hit exactly where you want it. Also, it would be near imposible to use properly if you were working in tight spaces as it requires 2 hands to be on the tool.

@madcow3417 8 ай бұрын

@@SammyInnit it did not, I'm basically in a desert so the low humidity may play a role. There's supposed to be a piece inside that wears down that causes misfires on most of these, but it wasn't that either. I just quit trying to figure it out.

@bwmcelya 8 ай бұрын

Tod I think your the only guy in the world who has ever tested center punches like this. Good work. For myself, I just buy what’s at the store that day. When it loses the tip I grind it back and temper it with a torch and oil. Works pretty good.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thank you!

@BrilliantDesignOnline 8 ай бұрын

The Spring Tools are the best. I purchased a couple on a whim out of curiosity, and I love them; You hold the point EXACTLY where you want and then vary the pull back for your needs and if held vertically, a perfect divot every time.

@ProjectFarm 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for the feedback.