Best Metal Center Punches of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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Metal center punches are a must-have tool for any DIY enthusiast or professional mechanic. These punches are designed to create a small indentation in metal surfaces, making it easier to drill or screw into them. They come in different sizes and shapes, with some featuring a pointed tip for precision work, while others have a flat end for larger indentations. Metal center punches are made from high-quality materials such as hardened steel, ensuring durability and longevity. They are easy to use and provide accurate results every time, making them an essential tool for any metalworking project.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

NEIKO 02638A 5-Inch Automatic Center Punch Tool Cover #TOP 1
NEIKO 02638A 5-Inch Automatic Center Punch Tool
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Heavy Duty Automatic Center Punch with Hardened Steel Cover #TOP 2
Heavy Duty Automatic Center Punch with Hardened Steel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Edward Tools Center Punch Staking Tool Cover #TOP 3
Edward Tools Center Punch Staking Tool
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Metal Center Punches

#TOP 1

NEIKO 02638A 5-Inch Automatic Center Punch Tool

02638A
Original Version
5" Length
NEIKO 02638A 5-Inch Automatic Center Punch Tool Cover
NEIKO 02638A 5-Inch Automatic Center Punch for Metal, Adjustable Impact Spring Loaded Center Punch Tool, Spring Punch, Center Punch Spring Loaded, Auto Center Punch

The NEIKO 02638A 5-Inch Automatic Center Punch Tool is made of chrome-plated shank body and reinforced S2 steel tip that withstands intense impact force, and resists corrosion and damage over time. The center-hole punch tool is suitable for materials like wood, plastic, metal, glass, and leather. With its compact steel tip and spring-loaded action, it lets you mark drill holes anywhere while on the job. This all-in-one center punch tool is easy to use and grip, and is suitable for all kinds of tasks.

What We Like
Spring-loaded and adjustable stroke and cap that accommodates any project
Compact steel tip with spring-driven action allows marking drill holes anywhere
Chrome-plated shank body and reinforced S2 steel tip resist corrosion and damage over time
#TOP 2

Heavy Duty Automatic Center Punch with Hardened Steel

SR088
Steel
Heavy Duty Automatic Center Punch with Hardened Steel Cover
Heavy Duty Automatic Center Punch with Hardened Steel - Pack of 2 Premium Universal Metal Hand Tool for Machinists and Carpenters Spring Loaded with Adjustable Knurled Cap and Hard-Shell Carry Case

The Sandor Tool Heavy Duty Automatic Center Punch is a premium hand tool designed for machinists and carpenters. It features a spring-loaded mechanism that makes a solid mark in various materials including wood, metal, steel, aluminum, brass, and copper. With one-handed operation, users can mark hole centers with precision and accuracy without the need for a hammer. The automatic center punch also has adjustable tension and a deeply knurled surface for more precise handling and control. The product comes in a zippered hard shell storage case and is made of hardened all-steel construction with a long-lasting fine point tip.

What We Like
Spring-loaded mechanism for solid marks in various materials
One-handed operation for precision and accuracy
Adjustable tension and deeply knurled surface for more precise handling and control
#TOP 3

Edward Tools Center Punch Staking Tool

Edward Tools Center Punch Staking Tool Cover
Edward Tools Center Punch Staking Tool for Steel and Metals — Heavy Drop Forged Steel with Durable hex shank - 6” X 1/2” X 1/4”

This staking tool is made of heavy duty drop forged steel with a durable hex shank, measuring 6” X 1/2” X 1/4”. It is designed for use as an auto or nail punch, and comes with a lifetime warranty. The staking tool is categorized as a center punch and is a reliable choice for punching and marking on steel and metals.

What We Like
Heavy duty drop forged steel for durability
Durable hex shank for a reliable grip
Can be used as an auto or nail punch
#TOP 4

Mayhew Tools 62215 Center Punch Kit

62215
Black Oxide Finish
4-Piece Set
Mayhew Tools 62215 Center Punch Kit Cover
Mayhew Tools 62215 Center Punch, 4-Piece Set, Black Oxide Finish

The Mayhew Tools 62215 Center Punch Kit contains 4 pieces of center punches with different point sizes, used for piercing or marking in metal and other materials. The black oxide finish provides extra rust protection. The kit includes 24002 3/16-5mm x 5-Inch, 24003 5/16-8mm x 6-Inch, 24006 5/64-2mm x 4-Inch, 24007 1/8-3mm x 4-1/4-Inch.

What We Like
Different point sizes for achieving the most appropriate hole size.
Black oxide finish provides extra rust protection.
Used for piercing or marking for starting drills in metal and other materials.
#TOP 5

Fowler 52-500-015-0 Center Punch Set

52-500-015-0
black
5 Pieces
Fowler 52-500-015-0 Center Punch Set Cover
Fowler 52-500-015-0, Center Punch 5 Piece Set

The Fowler Center Punch Set is a 5-piece set made of chrome alloy steel, finished in black nitrate, and includes point sizes ranging from 3/64" to 11/64". The conical tip and hardened ends of the center punch make it a perfect pre-drilling tool to make an indentation, allowing you to safely drill a hole without slipping. The knurled finger grip on the punch provides ease of handling. The set comes in a fitted vinyl case with all sizes marked for fast and easy use. With the Fowler Center Punch Set, you can drill with precision and accuracy, making it an essential tool in any toolbox.

What We Like
Precise drilling
Hardened ends
Knurled finger grip
#TOP 6

Starrett Steel Automatic Center Punch - 18C

Starrett Steel Automatic Center Punch - 18C Cover
Starrett Steel Automatic Center Punch with Adjustable Stroke - 5-1/4" (130mm) Length, 11/16" (17mm) Punch Diameter, Lightweight, Knurled Steel Handle - 18C

The Starrett Steel Automatic Center Punch is a heavy-duty tool, resistant to corrosion and capable of striking a much heavier blow than other sizes. Its adjustable force can create a perfect mark on any surface and the spring tension ensures uniformity in depth and size for each setting. Its automatic mechanism makes it easy to use in any workshop application, making it the perfect tool for precision marking in metals, plastics, wood, and other machinable materials.

What We Like
Heavy-duty and corrosion-resistant
Adjustable force for precision marking on any surface
Automatic mechanism makes it easy to use in any workshop application
#TOP 7

RNSXYAT 2Pcs Automatic Center Punch

RNSXYAT
Gold
RNSXYAT 2Pcs Automatic Center Punch Cover
2Pcs Automatic Center Punch, 5'' Premium Spring Loaded Center Punch, Adjustable Spring Loaded Center Hole Punch, Heavy Duty Steel Automatic Center Marker Punch Tool for Metal, Wood, Glass by RNSXYAT

The RNSXYAT Center Punch Tool is designed for precision and ease of use. Made from high-quality stainless steel, its anti-slip handle ensures you can mark accurately without slipping. You can easily adjust the spring tension to fit your project needs, whether you're working on metal, wood, or plastic. With a simple twist and press, it allows for one-handed operation, making it convenient for any task. This versatile tool is not only great for marking but can also assist in emergencies, like breaking car windows, proving its usefulness in various situations.

What We Like
High-quality stainless steel
Adjustable spring tension
One-handed operation
Versatile for multiple materials
#TOP 8

Super Strong Automatic Center Punch

Black_Center_Punch_2PK
Black
6-Inch
Super Strong Automatic Center Punch Cover
Super Strong Automatic Center Punch - 6 inch Black Steel Spring Loaded Center Hole Punch with Adjustable Tension, Hand Tool for Metal or Wood with Zippered Hard Shell Carry Case - Pack of 2

The Super Strong Automatic Center Punch is an amazing hand punch tool that makes it easier to drill. It has a spring-loaded mechanism and adjustable tension, making it ideal for wood, metal, steel, aluminum, brass, copper and more. The deeply knurled surface and well-machined brass body give it extreme strength and durability. In addition, it serves as a safety tool that can be used as an emergency car window escape tool.

What We Like
Adjustable tension screw for one-hand operation
Can shatter glass car windows for emergency escape
Well-machined brass body with deeply knurled surface for precise handling and control
#TOP 9

MulWark 5" Spring-Loaded Automatic Steel Center Hole Punch

MLK-53745
MulWark 5" Spring-Loaded Automatic Steel Center Hole Punch Cover
MulWark 5" Spring-Loaded Automatic Steel Center Hole Punch Marker Scriber For Wood, Metal, Plastic, Car Window Puncher Breaker Tool-With Palm Cushion Cap, Adjustable Impact-A Replacement Tip Included

The MulWark 5" Spring-Loaded Automatic Steel Center Hole Punch is a premium grade tool made of hardened Cr-V steel, perfect for marking dimpled starting points on metal, wood, glass, leather or plastic surfaces. The orange cap is adjustable to give increased or decreased striking force, and the deeply knurled finger grip offers easy handling and better control. Additionally, the non-pinch comfortable cap provides a good cushion for your palm against spring impact, and the punch's point can be removed for replacement or sharpening, with a free spare tip included for longer-term use.

What We Like
Premium grade tool made of hardened Cr-V steel
Adjustable orange cap for increased or decreased striking force
Deeply knurled finger grip for easy handling and better control
#TOP 10

Starrett Automatic Center Punch - 18AA

18AA
Black
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Starrett Automatic Center Punch - 18AA Cover
Starrett Automatic Center Punch with Hardened Steel Metal - 100mm Length, 11mm Punch Diameter Tapered Point - 18AA

The Starrett 18AA Automatic Center Punch is a durable tool made of hardened steel, featuring a conical point that helps create an indentation in an object. This allows you to drill a hole at the same spot without slipping. The punch does not require a hammer, and it features an adjustable force for various depths and sizes of marks. The removable point is easy to replace or regrind, making it a versatile and efficient tool for drilling holes.

What We Like
Durable and made of hardened steel
Does not require a hammer
Adjustable force for various depths and sizes of marks
Removable point for easy replacement or regrinding
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the center punch metal?

A center punch is a tool with a pointed end that makes a dimple in your piece of material right where you intend to drill a hole. - When you begin drilling, the recess of the dimple relieves pressure from the flat tip of the bit (the "chisel tip" or the "web".) This prevents bending, chipping, breaking.

2. What is a center punch used for?

A spring-loaded center punch is often used to mark the center of a point to show the center of a hole when drilling for example. A center punch forms a dimple large enough to direct the tip of the drill to the proper location.

Editor's Notes

During our metal center punch research, we found 24 metal center punch products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 98,577 customer reviews through our big data system to write the metal center punches list. We found that most customers choose metal center punches with an average price of $13.06.

The metal center punches are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of metal center punches, including NEIKO, SANDOR, Edward Tools, Mayhew Tools, Fowler. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 35 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.