Starrett 18A

[Larryjones]

I was given this in a box of junque. I know it is an automatic center punch, this one is different. It is springy when pushed but no click action.The tip is more like a pin punch. What is it for? Parts missing?

 

[rshadd]

Does this help?

 

[Larryjones]

Thanks for the pic Rich, mine seems to have a spring missing. I still don't know what it was used for.

 

[rvieceli]

Here you go Larry:

http://www.starrett.com/metrology/product-detail/18A

video is useful

 

[Wamsutta]

rviceli solved the mystery. Somebody installed a locating tip from an 819.

It looks like they have all the parts available for their punches. I have an 18A and I must say it's a fantastic tool. I use it for marking pre-drill holes for wood screws in 2x4's. It's faster and more accurate than using a pencil mark.

 

[MFolks]

I've used the 18B for many years when drilling holes in metal panels. It works far better than the hammer and center punch method. Snap a starting mark in the metal & then the drill bit while using cutting oil,followed by the correct tap hole for cutting threads.

 

[zmotorsports]

I use mine a LOT. If I am center punching on a scribed intersection, I simply use the snap punch which will put a small dimple, then follow it with a center punch and hammer to create a larger crater for the drill bit to rest in. For thinner materials or non-ferrous materials many times the spring punch is enough and following up with a center punch and hammer is not even necessary.

Mike.

 

[Wamsutta]

zmotorsports, have you tried the 18C version? That thing is a brute and packs a punch. On thicker steel, it'll put a deep crater on the mark. Only stipulation though is the spring action seems tougher than the tip. You'll have to sharpen the tip from time to time.

 

[zmotorsports]

zmotorsports, have you tried the 18C version? That thing is a brute and packs a punch. On thicker steel, it'll put a deep crater on the mark. Only stipulation though is the spring action seems tougher than the tip. You'll have to sharpen the tip from time to time.

No I haven't tried that one. Maybe I'll have to.

Thanks.

Mike.