Best Transfer Punches of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Transfer punches are a must-have tool for any metalworker or machinist. These punches are used to transfer the exact location of a hole or other feature from one piece of material to another. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, including round, square, and hexagonal. The punches are made from high-quality tool steel and are hardened and tempered for maximum durability. They are also designed with a knurled grip for easy handling and precise control. Whether you're working on a small hobby project or a large industrial job, transfer punches are an essential tool for accurate and efficient metalworking.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Neiko 02621A Transfer Punch Set Cover #TOP 1
Neiko 02621A Transfer Punch Set
ftb score rating icon 9.8
HORUSDY 28-Piece Transfer Punch Set Cover #TOP 2
HORUSDY 28-Piece Transfer Punch Set
ftb score rating icon 9.7
33 PCS Transfer Punch Set for Machinist Thread Tool Cover #TOP 3
33 PCS Transfer Punch Set for Machinist Thread Tool
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Transfer Punches

#TOP 1

Neiko 02621A Transfer Punch Set

02621A
28 Piece Set
Neiko 02621A Transfer Punch Set Cover
NEIKO 02621A Transfer Punch Set with Premium Heat-Treated Alloy Steel Punches, Hole-Punch Set, Punch Sizes 3/32" to 1/2", 28-Piece Kit

The Neiko 02621A Transfer Punch Set includes 28 high-quality punches made of heat-treated alloy steel that eliminates the guesswork while transferring threaded, drilled or reamed machining and drilling operations. This set comes in handy in a wide variety of applications from 3/32" to 1/2" by 64th, including 17/32" sizes. A black oxide finish ensures durability and rust resistance. The transfer punch set includes an easy-to-see stand that keeps the tools stacked and ready to pull.

What We Like
High impact strength
Variable tension adjustment
Easy to use
Durable construction
Versatile for various materials
What We Don't Like
Occasional sticking issues
Limited tip replacement options
#TOP 2

HORUSDY 28-Piece Transfer Punch Set

97754
Black
3/32" - 1/2"
HORUSDY 28-Piece Transfer Punch Set Cover
HORUSDY 28-Piece Transfer Punch Set, 3/32" - 1/2", Heat Treated Alloy Steel Forging

The HORUSDY 28-Piece Transfer Punch Set is made of heat-treated alloy steel with black oxide film that provides durability and rust resistance. It comes with an index stand that ensures easy access to tools and minimizes guesswork in transferring threaded, drilled or reamed machining, drilling operations. The set includes a wide range of transfer punches that are ideal for tool builders and mechanics, with sizes ranging from 3/32" to 1/2" by 1/64."

What We Like
Simple and inexpensive tool
Effective problem solver
Good for drilling patterns
Meets expectations for price
What We Don't Like
Faint size markings
Base stability issues
#TOP 3

33 PCS Transfer Punch Set for Machinist Thread Tool

Generic
33 Piece Set
33 PCS Transfer Punch Set for Machinist Thread Tool Cover
33 PCS 1/2-1'' Transfer Punch By 64th Set Punches Machinist Thread Tool

This transfer punch set consists of 33 pieces of finest tool steel with a black oxide finish. These punches are heat-treated and tempered and clearly marked with size for convenience. The set ranges from 1/2'' to 1'' by 1/64th, and each punch is 4-7/8'' long. With a weight of 22 lbs, this set is perfect for machinist thread tool applications.

What We Like
Arrived earlier than expected
Excellent packaging quality
Good quality tools
Rust-resistant coating
Reasonably priced set
What We Don't Like
Holder may arrive damaged
Stand construction could be better
#TOP 4

HHIP 28 Piece Transfer Punch Set

8600-0041
Black
3/32-1/2"
HHIP 28 Piece Transfer Punch Set Cover
HHIP 8600-0041 28 Piece Transfer Punch Set, 3/32" - 1/2"

HHIP 28 Piece Transfer Punch Set is a collection of heat-treated tempered tool steel punches with a black oxide finish. The set contains 28 pieces of transfer punches that range from 3/32" to 1/2" by 64ths and 11/32". These punches are designed to be undersized by .0025" and are 4-7/8" long. The product falls under the category of transfer punches.

What We Like
Good value for the price
Useful for metal fabrication
Indispensable in the shop
Various sizes included
Decent quality for budget tools
What We Don't Like
Soft tips may dull quickly
Not hardened like premium brands
#TOP 5

Fowler FOW52-482-030 Transfer Punch

524820300
Factory
1/2-1"
Fowler FOW52-482-030 Transfer Punch Cover
Fowler FOW52-482-030 Transfer Punch, 1/2-1"

The Fowler Transfer Punch Set is designed for precision and durability, making it an essential tool for your projects. Crafted from hardened and tempered tool steel, these punches ensure long-lasting performance, allowing you to work with confidence. The convenient package dimensions make it easy to store and transport, while the total weight of 8.596 kilograms provides a sturdy feel during use. Proudly made in the United States, this set combines quality craftsmanship with practicality, giving you the reliability you need for accurate punch alignment in various applications.

What We Like
Affordable pricing
Variety of punch sizes
Compact storage rack
What We Don't Like
Made in China
Rack arrived slightly damaged
#TOP 6

Fowler Heavy Duty Transfer Punch Set

EGLE15803
Black
Fowler Heavy Duty Transfer Punch Set Cover
Fowler 72-482-040-0 Heavy Duty Transfer Punch Set

The Fowler Transfer Punch Set is a versatile tool designed for precision work. With a size range from 1/2 to 1 inch in 1/64 inch increments, you can easily find the right fit for your project. The set includes 36 pieces, featuring three master punches and 33 individual sleeves, allowing you to tackle a variety of tasks. Each piece is clearly marked with a laser-etched size, ensuring you can quickly identify what you need. Plus, the color coding makes it simple to match the sleeves with the correct punches, saving you time and effort during use.

What We Like
Good quality product
Nice quality case
Recommended for transfer punches
What We Don't Like
Metric sets unavailable
Hard to find metric punches
#TOP 7

Fowler Steel Transfer Punch Set with Index Stand

52-482-028-0
Factory
28 Piece
Fowler Steel Transfer Punch Set with Index Stand Cover
Fowler 52-482-028-0 Steel Transfer Punch Set with Index Stand, 28 Piece

The Fowler Steel Transfer Punch Set with Index Stand, 28 Piece is a durable and functional tool designed to meet the needs of users in the shop, at home, or in the field. Made with high-quality materials and world-class craftsmanship, this transfer punch set is built to withstand tough jobs and real-world conditions. It is proven and tested for durability and function, and comes with an index stand for easy organization and storage. This set is designed with the user in mind, making it a reliable and convenient tool for any project.

What We Like
Accurate and precise punches
Good variety of sizes
Well-made and durable
Quick delivery from sellers
What We Don't Like
Plastic holder instead of metal
Possible manufacturing inconsistencies
#TOP 8

VCT 28pc Transfer Punch Set

VCT
99834
VCT 28pc Transfer Punch Set Cover
VCT 28pc 3/32"- 1/2" Transfer Punch Set Steel Toolmaker Machinist Thread Tool Kit Set

The VCT 28pc Transfer Punch Set is a durable and rust-resistant tool set designed for accurate hole-drilling operations. Made from high-quality heat-treated alloy steel with a black oxide finish, each precisely machined point is suitable for both toolmakers and machinists. With a wide range of transfer punches from 3/32" to 1/2" by 1/64 inch increments, this set comes with an index stand for easy organization and quick access to the tools.

What We Like
Punches are visually appealing
Functionality seems adequate
Size labels included
What We Don't Like
Case quality is poor
Labels are hard to read
#TOP 9

UI PRO TOOLS 33pc Transfer Punch Set

UI PRO TOOLS 33pc Transfer Punch Set Cover
33pc Center Transfer Punches Set Machinists Tool Punch Stand Heat Treated Steel Black Industrial Oxide Finish

The UI PRO TOOLS Punch Set is designed to streamline your machining tasks. With punches ranging from 1/2" to 1" in indexed increments, you can easily select the right size for your project. Each punch is made 0.0025” undersized, making it easier for you to use them without interference. Crafted from high-quality heat-treated tempered tool steel, these punches are built to last. The black industrial oxide finish not only enhances durability but also prevents rust. This set eliminates the uncertainty of aligning threaded, drilled, or reamed holes, ensuring accuracy every time you work.

What We Like
Product meets expectations
Usable despite minor damage
Attractive holder design
What We Don't Like
Holder arrived damaged
Delivery issues initially
#TOP 10

28pc Center Transfer Punches Set

CMT42-40219
Black
28pc Center Transfer Punches Set Cover
28pc Center Transfer Punches Set Machinists Tool Punch Stand Heat Treated Steel Black Industrial Oxide Finish

This 28-piece set of center transfer punches is a useful tool for transferring threaded, drilled, or reamed holes. The set includes indexed stand with 3/32" to 1/2" punches (by 64ths) plus a handy 17/32" punch. The punches are made of the finest heat-treated tempered tool steel with a black industrial oxide finish. The diameters of the punches are 0.0025" undersized to facilitate ease of use. The set eliminates guesswork in transferring holes. Note that the punches holder may vary and a plastic or metal holder may be included.

What We Like
Well manufactured
Sharp points
Good value
Durable for years
What We Don't Like
Holder is somewhat flimsy
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between a center punch and a transfer punch?

A center punch is used to create a divot wherever it is struck, while a transfer punch is specifically designed to center itself in a bolt hole. When a transfer punch is struck, it creates a divot exactly in the center of the bolt hole. This makes transfer punches ideal for accurately transferring hole locations in a series of bolt holes that need to be drilled with precision.

2. Which punch is used to transfer holes?

A transfer punch is used to transfer hole locations. These punches typically have a length of around 4 inches and are used to accurately transfer the location of holes through a pattern or template on metal. The point of a transfer punch tapers initially and then runs straight for a short distance, allowing it to center itself in a bolt hole and create a divot exactly in the center of the hole when struck.

Editor's Notes

During our transfer punch research, we found 24 transfer punch products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 73,541 customer reviews through our big data system to write the transfer punches list. We found that most customers choose transfer punches with an average price of $24.82.

The transfer punches are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of transfer punches, including NEIKO, HORUSDY, HHIP, Fowler, VCT. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

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.