The Armour Archive

Hi Folks,

I am trying to get my Scythian scale project started where I need to punch about a thousand metal scales with 4-5 holes each---a daunting task (or at least it is to me). I have a metal hand punch from Harbor Tools but I am worried about the fatigue and damage to my hands,which are prone to cramping and soreness. Might a pneumatic punch like this one fill the bill?

http://www.toolbarn.com/product/eagle/RC6301/

The metal to be punched is mild steel and around 20-22 ga. Has anybody on AA used a tool of this type? Can anybody offer me any advice? I thank you in advance for your kind assistance!

Cheers,
Tim

Hi Tim,

I've used similar tools and they work well as long as you have sufficient compressor capacity not just cfm.

For about the same price I could probably get you a used whitney #8 or #2 punch which woul easily handel the punching. They are rated at 5 tons so the muscle effort is minimal and you can use your whole arm, not just your hand.

I used one for a similar project- 700 5 holes scales of .050" red brass and it worked very well.