A heavy-duty centre punch designed to create accurate starter dimples without a hammer. Tradespeople and keen DIYers gain cleaner, repeatable centre marks that speed up drilling and screw-hole layout. Is Starrett Automatic Centre Punch 18C worth choosing for occasional workshop tasks?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Impact Force: Strikes heavier blows than standard automatic centre punches
- • Best for: Machinists, metalworkers and serious DIYers needing reliable centre marks
- • Not ideal for: Casual users who prefer a simple hammer-and-punch approach
Adjustable cap regulates stroke so users can choose heavier or lighter impacts. Hardened and tempered steel construction with all-steel parts improves wear resistance and longevity.
Consistent, repeatable marks – With adjustable stroke and constant spring tension
Knurled cap turns to set stroke length, while a constant-tension spring delivers the same energy on each downward activation. The internal mechanism releases the striking mass when sufficient pressure is applied.
Set repeatable dimple depths for accurate drill starts across multiple workpieces, reducing layout errors and rework.
Stronger strikes for tougher materials – Thanks to hardened and tempered steel components
All-steel handle and hardened internal parts transfer force efficiently and resist deformation under heavier blows. Construction is designed to tolerate higher impact than standard automatic punches.
Mark tougher metals and thicker plates more reliably, cutting the need for hammer tapping and improving workshop throughput.
Long-term serviceability – With a removable, regrindable point
The point is user-removable so it can be reprofiled or replaced when worn. Simple maintenance restores a sharp marking edge without replacing the whole tool.
Maintain accurate centre marks over years of use by regrinding or swapping the tip, extending usable life and keeping marks precise.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Starrett Automatic Centre Punch 18C
- Adjustable Stroke – Set exact impact for repeatable dimple depth every time.
- Constant Spring Tension – Uniform mark depth across multiple strikes without readjustment.
- Hardened Steel Construction – Withstands workshop use and resists wear for longer life.
- Removable, Regrindable Point – Replace or sharpen point to maintain sharp, accurate marks.
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Hand tool, centre punch
- Length: 5-1/4 inches
- Diameter: 11/16 inches
- Action: Automatic, spring-loaded impact on downward pressure
- Stroke: Adjustable via knurled cap
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the punch tip replaceable or can it be sharpened?
A: Yes, the point can be easily removed for regrinding or replacement, allowing restoration of a sharp marking edge.
Q: Can the depth or force of the strike be adjusted?
A: Yes, the knurled cap regulates the stroke so users can set the impact, while spring tension remains constant for consistent marks.
Q: Is the tool suitable for heavy-duty workshop work?
A: Yes, the 18C is capable of striking a heavier blow than standard automatic centre punches and uses hardened, tempered steel for wear resistance.
🏆 Our Verdict
Ideal for machinists, metalworkers and serious DIYers who need consistent starter marks and a robust workshop tool. Adjustable stroke, constant spring tension and hardened steel construction set the punch apart for demanding marking tasks. While more substantial than basic punch-and-hammer options, the durable build and serviceable point indicate strong long-term value for frequent users.
