Good quality made in USA punch set

[WittHay]

Is there any benefit to square vs round shaft. Seems like Mathew 150 line only has a combo set of punch and chisels.

You asked a good question: Why are most roll pin punches round on the gripping end?

I like the Proto/Macs because they use the hex shape and are longer than the round ones. They seem to stand up to taking out spring pins on German made equipment.

Used made in China punches before and they lasted a few minutes before the ends were destroyed. Hard German steel and soft China punches don't mix.

 

[T45]

I was told in an email that Snap-on makes their own punches and chisels.

I don't know how the Mayhew rumor got started.

It might just be the parabolic striking ends. The 150 are probably in the same quality bracket as snap on, and in any event they are all expensive at that level.

The mayhew PRO stuff is definitely not the same as snap on, however, and thats the one that people usually are referring to, and that was the point i was trying to make.

The snap on punches and prybars have a pretty long market history and may in fact be made in house. The prybars are def. not Mahyew I know that...

 

[WittHay]

Here is a picture showing the differences between the Mac/Proto and the Snap-on roll pin punches. The largest size on the right is a Proto 1/2" and the round one is a Snap-on 7/16"

If you are working under a machine with a 3 lb. hammer, the hex ones are easier to hold onto than the round ones.

 

[kctyphoon]

I don't remember the brand, but Home Depot has USA made punch sets on the peg hooks in the tool section. The ones I have work fine for me. I also have that bigger green set from HF, and I have to admit they have been good too. The only one I've bent is the smallest one in the set. The others have been beat on pretty good with no damage yet.

 

[cesski]

I'm very happy with my Wilde set.