Starrett 18A Automatic Centre Punch

Key features

This rugged automatic centre punch from Starrett offers consistent marks with every blow, thanks to an internal mechanism that activates a strike under downward pressure. The spring tension remains constant across settings, ensuring uniform depth and size of each indentation on the workpiece. The knurled cap can be adjusted to regulate the force of the blow, giving you control whether you’re working with soft metals or harder materials. Built with all steel handles and components, it is designed for durability in daily use around the workshop or on site 🛠️. Easy maintenance is a practical plus, as the point can be removed for regrinding or replacement, keeping the tool sharp and reliable over time 💡.

With its straightforward design, the Starrett 18A balances reliability and simplicity. It reduces the need for repeated marks and guesswork, helping you set up operations faster and with greater precision. Whether you’re planning holes, aligning dies, or starting pilot marks, this centre punch provides a steady, predictable performance in a compact form factor that fits neatly into a toolbox or work pouch. You’ll appreciate how the adjustable stroke accommodates varying task requirements, boosting versatility without adding complexity. In daily use, the tool’s solid weight gives a reassuring feel, reinforcing confidence when you need a dependable pilot point before drilling.

Thermal and mechanical resilience is built into its all steel construction, making it a long‑lasting choice for professional or serious DIY projects. The mechanism is designed to deliver a clean, crisp mark every time, reducing subsequent errors and improving hole alignment. For tradespeople prioritising value for money, the 18A presents a compelling balance of robustness, ease of maintenance and precise performance in one handy package 🛠️. In summary, it is well suited to metalworking tasks where accurate centre punches are part of the workflow, with a focus on durability and repeatable results.

Usage tips

Start with a clean, dry surface and select the appropriate stroke setting for the material. Apply steady downward pressure to engage the mechanism, allowing the punch to deliver a consistent impact depth. If the point dulls, remove and regrind or replace the tip to maintain sharpness and accuracy. Regularly inspect the knurled cap and threads for wear, cleaning away any debris after use. For best results, use alongside a centre finder or drill guide to ensure perfect alignment and unmistakable marks 🧰.

Tech specs

• Name: Starrett 18A Automatic Centre Punch With Adjustable Stroke
• Type: Centre punch
• Format: Hand tool
• Size: compact handheld design
• Capacity: suitable for standard workshop tasks
• Dimensions: compact profile for easy handling
• Weight: robust, substantial build
• Material: all steel components
• Colour: metallic grey finish
• Display: not applicable
• Resolution: not applicable
• Refresh rate: not applicable
• Processor: not applicable
• Memory: not applicable