How to choose scribers and punches: marking out, stamping, driving out

The scriber scores lines on metal, the centre punch marks the point where you then drill, punches stamp letters and numbers and pin punches push out pins and dowels. They are different tools that look alike: choose according to what you need to do, the diameter of the pin or mark (in the collection from 0.8 to 6 mm and beyond) and the hardness of the material to be worked.

Types

• Scriber. A thin steel point, also in carbide (Widia), for scoring a guide line against a rule or a square.
• Centre punch. It is placed on the point to be drilled and struck with a hammer: the small dimple then guides the drill bit. There is also the automatic centre punch, which does not need a hammer, and others for specific uses.
• Awl and inserts. For marking and making small pilot holes, such as the Stanley FATMAX awl. There are also inserts for interchangeable awls.
• Nail punches. They are used to drive a nail head below the surface. The Stanley Dynagrip series comes in several sizes, for example the 0-58-912 and the 0-58-913.
• Letter and number punches. For marking parts and equipment with codes and reference numbers.
• Engraving tool. Such as the Stanley engraving tool, for engraving and marking lines on metal.
• Pin punches and sets. For driving out pins, dowels and split pins. They are sold in sets of different diameters, such as the Fervi 0126 set or the Fervi TM01/038 set with chisels.

How to choose by job

Features to check

Material. Carbon steel, hardened steel, hardened and blackened steel, carbide (Widia) for scriber points. Hardened steel withstands impacts and wear better. The handle, when present, can be in acetate.

Diameter. Diameters of 0.8, 1.6, 2.4, 4 and 6 mm appear, and sets of pin punches of 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 and 10 mm. The pin punch must match the diameter of the pin to be driven out: smaller and it bends, larger and it will not go in.

Length. From about 82 mm to almost 300 mm. The shorter ones are handy and precise; the long ones are for reaching deep areas.

Pieces per pack. Packs of 3, 6 or 12 pieces. A set is better value if you use several sizes.

Common mistakes

• Choosing a pin punch of the wrong diameter. It ruins the pin or the tool.
• Striking the punch crooked. It must be held perpendicular to the part, which must rest on a rigid base.
• Striking the same letter punch several times. Strike once, firmly, otherwise the mark may double up.
• Using a tool with a deformed head. After many blows the head flattens and can chip. It must be ground or replaced.
• Striking without goggles. With a hammer, fragments can fly: always protect your eyes.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a centre punch and a scriber?

The scriber scores a line; the centre punch makes a small dimple at the point where you then drill.

What is the automatic centre punch for?

It is pressed on the point to be marked and makes the dimple without a hammer. It is fine for quick marks on sheet metal and sections.

Which pin punch should I buy?

The one with the diameter of the pin to be driven out. If you work on different machines, get a set with several sizes.

You will find all the tools in the Scribers and punches collection: to choose the right size, ask the AMES technicians for a quote or advice.