11 best drift punches

A drift punch is a type of hand tool commonly used in metalworking and mechanical applications.Here's some information about drift punches:

  1. Description: A drift punch is a long, cylindrical tool with a pointed tip at one end. The other end typically has a flat, blunt surface used for striking with a hammer.

  2. Purpose: Drift punches are primarily used to align, remove, or install pins, bolts, or other components in metalworking. The pointed end is used to align holes, and the flat end is struck with a hammer to drive the punch through.

  3. Materials: Drift punches are usually made of high-quality tool steel, ensuring durability and resistance to wear during use. Some may have additional coatings for further protection against corrosion.

  4. Design and Types: Drift punches come in various sizes and lengths to suit different applications. They can have different tip shapes, including flat, pointed, or tapered, depending on the specific task they are intended for.

  5. Usage: To use a drift punch, the pointed end is inserted into a hole or over a pin, and then a hammer or mallet is used to strike the flat end. The force applied helps align or remove components by driving them out of or into a hole.

  6. Safety Precautions: When using a drift punch, it's important to wear appropriate safety gear such as safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris that may be dislodged during the punching process.

  7. Applications: Drift punches are commonly used in automotive repair, construction, metal fabrication, and other industries where precise alignment and assembly of metal components are necessary.

In summary, a drift punch is a versatile hand tool used in metalworking to align, remove, or install pins, bolts, or other components by striking it with a hammer to provide the necessary force for the task at hand.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best drift punches on the market
  

Mayhew Pro 61360 3 Pc. Brass Drift Punch Set

Mayhew Tools

Based on 495 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Mayhew 61360 Brass Drift Punch Kit, 3-Piece comes in a tray package. Set contains: 25075 - 3/4-Inch Brass Drift Punch Knurled, 25076 - 1/2-Inch Brass Drift Punch, and 25077 - 3/8-Inch Brass Drift Punch. Comes with an unlimited lifetime warranty. Mayhew stands for quality, dependability, and confidence. When the caliber of the tools is just as important as the skills of the professionals employed, businesses trust Mayhew to get the job done. Since 1856, our punches, chisels, and pry bars have been the go-to tools for OEMs and professional mechanics throughout the country. And while our company has grown to meet the needs of the professional market, as well as those of the do-it-yourself automotive enthusiast, our focus has never changed - leveraging our strength to build your business.

  • Includes: 25075 3/4-Inch Brass Drift Punch Knurled
  • 25076 1/2-Inch Brass Drift Punch
  • 25077 3/8-Inch Brass Drift Punch
  • Comes in a tray package
  • Body type: round

User questions & answers

Question: Not sure why it has the blurb about "line up punches"? These are drifts and are absolutely used to drive shafts and pins into place
Answer: A drift punch is constructed as a tapered rod, with the hammer acting on the large end of the taper. The long [thin] end of a drift punch is placed into the semi-aligned bolt holes of two separate components, and then driven into the hole. These should NOT be called "drift" punches. They are strictly pin punches. These aren't tapered.
Question: Might it be worth spending slightly more to buy the 67003 5-pc. set to also get the 1/4 and 5/8 drift punches? Are those 2 extra punches very useful
Answer: i don't think they had the 5 pc set at the time. also ownly bought for the 3/4 size i needed.
Question: What are the lenghts
Answer: Large one is 8" long (3/4" diameter)Medium one is 7" long (1/2" diameter)Small one is 6" long (3/8" diameter)

Product features

Professional Grade. American Made.

Founded in 1856, Mayhew Steel Products (Mayhew Tools) is the oldest punch and chisel manufacturer in the United States. As we’ve grown, there’s only one thing that hasn’t changed—our dedication to quality, reliability, and craftsmanship. That’s why we’ve become the tool of choice for technicians and professional mechanics across the country, and have found a home in the belts of do-it-yourselfers as well. Over time our product line has grown but our passion for manufacturing quality hand tools continues as we serve the Industrial, Automotive and Hardware industries.

Mayhew Tools is ISO 9001:2015 Certified. CIC Management, LLC. Certification No. 17-1027. Issue Date: August 30, 2017.

GEARWRENCH 4 Pc. Long Taper Punch Set - 82307

GEARWRENCH

Based on 213 reviews Check latest price

Product description

GearWrench introduced the original patented five-degree ratcheting wrench in 1996 and quickly became a go-to brand for professional automotive technicians. The innovation didn't stop there. Year after year, the GearWrench brand continues to expand its line-in ratcheting tools and beyond-to help automotive and industrial technicians get their jobs done faster and easier. Includes: 1/8" x 8" x 3/8" Long Taper Punch, 5/32" x 8-1/2" x 1/2" Long Taper, 3/16" x 9" x 1/2" Long Taper Punch, 1/4" x 11" x 5/8" Long Taper Punch.

  • Used to Install and Remove Pins and Shafts and To Align Holes
  • Softened and Tapered Striking end reduces potential to chip
  • Ground surface for ease of identification
  • Precision Harded working ends

User questions & answers

Question: What country are these made
Answer: the whole material of bag is waterprroof, front pocket is not zippered, please put the important things in the main pocket before get watered.

SK Hand Tool 6324 Drift Punch, Brass, 3/4-Inch

Based on 70 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Designed for use in non-marring and non-sparking applications on harder surface materials that will not be damaged by the softer brass punches.

  • For aligning unhardened steel or aluminum
  • Country Of Origin: United States
  • Model Number: 6324
  • Item Package Dimension: 8.0" L x 0.75" W x 0.75" H

User questions & answers

Question: Roughly how long is it
Answer: About 8 inches

Astro Pneumatic Tool 1600 16-Piece Punch and Chisel Set

Astro Pneumatic Tool

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Astro Pneumatic 1600 16-Piece Punch and Chisel Set is made of heat treated chrome vanadium steel. It includes the following: Punches - Taper punches, Pin punches, Center punches. Chisels - Clod chisels, Chisel gauge and Plastic storage tray. Hardness: 54~58HRC

  • Taper Punch: 3/32-inchby5-1/4-inch, 1/8-inchby5-3/4-inch, 5/32-inchby6-inch, 3/16-inchby6-1/4-inch, 1/4-inchby6-3/4-inch
  • Cold Chisels: 3/8-inch by 5-1/2-inch, 1/2-inch by 6-inch, 5/8-inch by 6-1/2-inch
  • Pin Punch: 3/32-inch by 4-1/4-inch, 1/8-inch by 4-3/4-inch, 5/32-inch by 5-inch, 3/16-inch by 5-1/4-inch, 1/4-inch by 5-3/4-inch
  • Center Punch: 1/8-inch by 5-inch, 3/16-inch by 6-inch
  • Product material: CR-V and hardness: 54~58HRC

User questions & answers

Question: Are they automatic
Answer: Appear to be. Been using them for while now rebuilding jd 750 and worked great. Had to replace rollers in Val metal 890 and pounded the piss out of them on the inners. Lasting longer than Chinese junk from freight. Think these are tawain. Have to check.
Question: Where are they made
Answer: Taiwan
Question: do they come in a case that you can close or no
Answer: Horusdy out of Australia.
Question: Will these hold up to gunsmith type use
Answer: Probably. However, I would think anyone interested in blacksmithing would want to upgrade to more professional tools. Good luck.

Product features

4.25" to 6.75" Punches and Chisels

16pc set features hex shaped shanks for easy gripping with locking pliers and includes 5 tapered punches, 5 straight punches, 2 center punches, 3 cold chisels and chisel gauge.

Great For Wide Variety Of Applications

With 16 different shapes and designs, the 1600 is popular for a multitude of uses including: bolt hole alignment, ball joint separation, spreading steering knuckles, center punching, and driving out bolts and pins.

High Rockwell Hardness

Heat treated Chrome Vanadium provides a high hardness rating that discourages mushrooming of heads and dulling of chisels and punches.

Chisel Gauge For Maintenance

Shows the correct angle for maintaing chisel edges.

Mayhew Tools 67003-MAI 045256670034, multi, one size

Mayhew Tools

Based on 238 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Mayhew 67003 Brass Drift Punch Set, 5 piece comes in a new anti slip pouch. This set contains a 1/4 Inch drift punch, 3/8- drift punch, 1/2 Inch drift punch, 5/8 drift punch, 3/4 Inch drift punch. Mayhew stands for quality, dependability, and confidence. When the caliber of the tools is just as important as the skills of the professionals employed, businesses trust Mayhew to get the job done. Since 1856, our punches, chisels, and pry bars have been the go-to tools for OEMs and professional mechanics throughout the country. And while our company has grown to meet the needs of the professional market, as well as those of the do-it-yourself automotive enthusiast, our focus has never changed - leveraging our strength to build your business.

  • Made in the USA
  • Non-Marring/Non-Sparking, Will Not Damage Harder Steel Materials
  • includes 1/4 x 4, 3/8 x 6, 1/2 x 7, 5/8 x 8 and 3/4 x 8 Drift Punches
  • Comes In An Anti Slip Pouch With Hook And Loop Fastening System With Individual Slots For Convenient Storage
  • Popular Uses: Aligning Steel, Car Repairs, Oil, Gas, Chemical, And Mining Applications

User questions & answers

Question: How long is each drift
Answer: Yes you can use a brass drift punch to slowly remove the bearings and not damage the wheel shaft. These are designed not to damage the steel on shafts, gears and bearings.
Question: Would this be the correct tool to remove 1 inch u-joint caps from drive shaft? Thank you
Answer: Gear Wrench is now made in Taiwan. If you prefer to buy tools that are made in USA then buy Mayhew, Wilde, Dasco, Proto, Ajax, Snap-On, or Wright taper and starting punches. They make all of these sizes and more.
Question: Can these be used for tapping out pressed in wheel bearings ( motorcycle
Answer: About 10” side to side, narrowing to 8“ near the top. About 4” wide.

Product features

MayhewPro 67003 5-Piece Knurled Brass Drift Punch Set

The MayhewPro 67003 Brass Drift Punch Set includes a 1/4-Inch, 3/8-Inch, 1/2-Inch, 5/8-Inch, 3/4-Inch drift punches, and an anti-slip pouch. Each drift punch features a knurled handle for a secure grip, and is non-marking to prevent damage on harder steel materials.

Comes in an anti-slip pouch with hook and loop fastening system with individual slots for convenient storage. Popular uses: aligning steel, car repairs, oil, gas, chemical, and mining applications.

Punch And Chisel Set, 16 Pieces- Includes Taper Punches, Cold Chisels, Pin Punches, Center Punches, Chisel Gauge, and Storage Case- By Stalwart

Stalwart

Based on 398 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Made of chrome vanadium steel for toughness and durability, the Stalwart 16-piece chisel and punch set will help you get the job done. Great for metal working, wood workers, artists, and automotive or body work, this is an essential set to add to any tool kit. Set includes- the 16-piece set consists of 5 taper punches; 3/32”x5 1/4”, 1/8”x 5 ¾”, 5/32”x6”, 3/16”x 6 ¼”, 1/4”x 6 ¾”. 3 cold chisels: 3/8”x 5 ½”, 1/2”x 6”, 5/8”x 6 ½”. 5 pin punches; 3/32”x 4 ¼”, 1/8”x 4 ¾”, 5/32”x 5”, 3/16”x 5 ¼”, ¼”x 5 ¾”. 2 center punches; 1/8”x5”, 3/16”x 6” and 1 chisel gauge. Hardness 54 58 HRC. Important: avoid buying counterfeit products and Transactions with unauthorized sellers. Look for our logo on the packaging for every one of our products. Stalwart is committed to providing the consumer with the absolute best price and value on all of our products, which we ensure by applying a rigorous quality control process. Stalwart is a registered trademark protected by U.S. Trademark law and will be vigorously defended.

  • MULTIUSE TOOL SET- The 16 piece punch and chisel is a must have for artists, woodworkers, carpenters, metal workers, automotive work, and home DIYers. Ideal for working with wood, metal, cars, sculpture, carving detail into cabinets, moldings, dressers, wood furniture and more!
  • DURABLE-  Stalwart’s chisels and punch tools are made from heat treated chrome vanadium steel construction with 54~58 HRC hardness. The chisel set can be used multiple times without worry of dulling or wear from use.
  • EASY TO STORE AND CARRY- The cloth roll up carry and storage pouch will keep your chisel and punch set safe, secure, and organized until your next use. The carry case also makes for easy transport and storage of the tools.
  • SET INCLUDES-  The 16-piece set consists of 5 taper punches; 3/32”x5 1/4”, 1/8”x 5 ¾”, 5/32”x6”,3/16”x 6 ¼”,1/4”x 6 ¾”. 3 Cold chisels:3/8”x 5 ½”, 1/2”x 6”, 5/8”x 6 ½”. 5 Pin punches; 3/32”x 4 ¼”, 1/8”x 4 ¾”, 5/32”x 5”, 3/16”x 5 ¼”, ¼”x 5 ¾”. 2 Center punches;1/8”x5”, 3/16”x 6” and 1 chisel gauge. Hardness 54~58 HRC.
  • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED – Stalwart is committed to providing consumers with the absolute best price and value on our entire line of products. NOTE: This is an exclusive product of Stalwart and ONLY Chisel and Punch Sets by Stalwart are GUARANTEED to be genuine

User questions & answers

Question: Can you use the pin punches to set rivets? Are the tips concave
Answer: You may want to try searching Amazon for individual items or e-bay may have what you need.
Question: can you use it for engraving metal
Answer: Yes it does. It's a really nice set just a lil short. Longest punch is around 8" i think but is a nice set!
Question: Where can I buy just the punch roll not the set
Answer: The 2 big one's are, 8in long, the next is 7in, next is 6in, small one is 4in. Long. Diameter largest one is 3/4, 5/8,1/2,3/8,1/4 5 pice set.
Question: Does this come with a prick punch
Answer: I used this to not damaged pressed bearing and bolts on aircraft you should be fine.

Fowler - 52-500-300-0 52-500-300 Chrome Alloy Steel Extra Long Drive Pin Punch Set, 8" Length, 1⁄8", 3⁄16", 1⁄4", 5⁄16" and 3⁄8" Point Sizes

Fred V. Fowler Company, Inc.

Based on 27 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Fowler 54-565-233 High-Accuracy Ultima Bore Gauging System has a measurement range of 7.878 to 8.27" and is accurate to + or - 0.00006". Resolution is 0.00001" and the measuring depth is 3.15". The gauge has constant spring pressure for repeatability and Bower's FastFit measuring heads for rapid measurement. It uses a three-point contact system for the detection of lobing or triangular form error, and ceramic contact points provide high durability and stability with regard to thermal expansion. The Ultima system requires connection to a Sylvac or multiplexer display unit.This product has 1 year warranty offered by Fowler High Precision. If you experience any problem contact Fowler directly for warranty claims.

  • 1 year warranty offered by Fowler High Precision

Mayhew Pro 25076 1/2-Inch Knurled Brass Drift Punch

Mayhew Tools

Based on 488 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Mayhew 25076 Knurled Brass Drift Punch, 1/2-Inch is used for non-marring applications; also designed to inhibit sparking. Made of consumable brass, designed not to mar steel. Made in the USA. Over all length: 7-Inch, body size: 1/2-Inch, body type: Round, and weight: 0.42-pound. Comes with an unlimited lifetime warranty. Mayhew stands for quality, dependability, and confidence. When the caliber of the tools is just as important as the skills of the professionals employed, businesses trust Mayhew to get the job done. Since 1856, our punches, chisels, and pry bars have been the go-to tools for OEMs and professional mechanics throughout the country. And while our company has grown to meet the needs of the professional market, as well as those of the do-it-yourself automotive enthusiast, our focus has never changed - leveraging our strength to build your business.

  • Used for non-marring applications
  • Designed to inhibit sparking
  • 1/2" body by 7" overall length
  • Made in the USA
  • Over all length: 7-Inch

User questions & answers

Question: Are the ends chamfered
Answer: 7 inches. But I think a longer one would be better.
Question: What size is recommended for removing races in trailer hub (dexter 10" x 2.25" hub, 3.5k, 5 on 4.5, inner race=l68111, outer race=l
Answer: email or call customer service.
Question: What is the overall length of this punch
Answer: The pin punch tips are flat.
Question: My shipment hasn't arrived. Does anyone know how to get this resolved? It was supposed to be one day pickup 5 days ago
Answer: No. Unless you hammer and chisel it in... Whitch would be extremely hard to do and most likely wouldn't come out very well ...

Product features

Leverage Your Time Right . . . Now.

MayhewPro Series professional grade tools are made for the tight tolerances, constant use, and unique applications specific to your line of work. Backed by a lifetime warranty, the MayhewPro Series is guaranteed to stand up to the daily punishment of a busy shop, making it the professionals’ first choice for professional-grade equipment. MayhewPro Series features: premium finishes for additional protection and extra machining for tighter tolerances,.

Drive Pin Punch Set, 5 Pieces, Steel

Starrett

Based on 286 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Drive Pin Punch Set, Standard Tool (Accessory Needed for Tethering), Number of Pieces 5, Sizes Included 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, 5/16, 3/8 In., 1-Piece Design, Material Steel, Length 8 In., Features Knurled Grip for Secure Holding, Designed to Withstand Hard Use, for Machine Shop and Motor Service Work, Hardened and Tempered, Punch Diameter Clearly Marked on the Head, Includes Plain Box

From the Manufacturer

Starrett No. 248 Drive Pin Punches are designed to withstand hard use and provide a most satifactory punch for machine shop and motor service work.

  • Mpn: S248
  • Country of manufacture: United States
  • Manufacturer: Starrett
  • Set of 5 punches includes: 1/8", 3/16", 1/4", 5/16", 3/8"
  • Extra long, measuring 8"
  • Well proportioned, hardened and properly tempered
  • Have a knurled finger grip

User questions & answers

Question: I purchased this set and just received my order. I was under the impression that it came with a storage pouch, is there any way I can order one
Answer: These punches are built by Starrett. They are precision instruments, and will contact the pins squarely. They won't "bend".
Question: Is there a warranty
Answer: Yes...as of 2020 still US made.
Question: Should I use tapered punches for really stuck pins or are these adequate? (I just don't want these punches to bend
Answer: The struck end is chamfered but the "working" end is not - it is a straight cut.
Question: Are they made in usa
Answer: Purchased 3/8", 1/2", and 3/4". Just changed bearings on my Dexter 5.5K axles today. Ended up using the 3/4" punch and had to beat the races pretty hard to get them out. I wouldn't go any less than 1/2".

Product features

Starrett S248 Extended Length Drive Pin Punch, 1/8"-3/8" Pin Diameters, 8" Overall Length, 3-1/2" Pin Length Pack of 5 in Starrett Red Cardboard Box

The Starrett S248 set includes five extended length drive pin punches with an 8" overall length, 3-1/2" long pin, and 1/8", 3/16", 1/4", 5/16", and 3/8" pin diameter sizes to push pins and rivets into or out of a workpiece. The extra-long drive pin section provides greater reach in recessed areas, which makes it suitable for machine shop and motor service work. Each punch is made from hardened and tempered steel which provides wear resistance and strength. The round shanks are knurled for grip.

Grip 28 pc Heavy Duty Punch & Chisel Set

Grip

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Grip punch and chisel set comes with 16-pc. chrome vanadium punch and chisel set, 5-pc. pin punches, 5-pc. taper punch, 3-pc. cold chisel, 2-pc. center punch and chisel punch gauge. Also comes with 12-pc. high carbon steel set, 6-pc. cold chisel set, 4-pc. pin punch set and 2-pc. center punch. Complete with roll-up vinyl storage pouch. Chisels (qty.): 9, Storage Type: Tool roll, Pieces (qty.): 28, Letters: 0, Punches (qty.): 18

  • Drop forged, heat treated, chrome vanadium steel
  • Package Weight: 3.663 kilograms
  • Package Dimensions: 4.055 L x 44.19 H x 13.21 W (centimeters)
  • Included components: Chisels (qty.): 9, Storage Type: Tool roll, Pieces (qty.): 28, Letters: , Punches (qty.): 18

User questions & answers

Question: what is the smallest chisel size (diameter
Answer: To: Young Kim--It confused me at first, also, but I believe he meant, "Are they spring-loaded, so that you push down on it until it releases, leaving a small mark or, in the case of a chisel, it moves a set amount each time you pull and release the back half of the handle shaft?" And to that, no, they are not "automatic"; they are a simple punch and chisel set, as you've indicated: You hit the back end of the handle with a hammer (no heavier than about 16 oz., or smaller if you have one available for precision work (say, 6 or 8 oz.)).
Question: What is the length of the longest piece
Answer: They are made in China, as with most tools. They are of good Quality for China tools
Question: What am I missing? Why are some of them painted green
Answer: No the case does not close it is just a tray
Question: Where are these tools made
Answer: Considering gunsmith would be the most delicate use punches ever see, you could buy one 1/4 wooden dowel and sandpaper and it would hold up fine too lol

Proto Drift Punch Set, Not Tether Capable

Proto

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Proto J96A 7 Piece Drift Punch Set

  • Sizes Included: 3/32, 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, 5/16, 3/8"; Features: Black Oxide Finish and a Polished Identification Panel Marked with Tool Number and Size; Number of Pieces: 7

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