HF Chassis Punch sale this week

[bobgroger]

Got my weekly HF ad today, chassis punch set on sale $15
At retail stores only if you have one nearby looks like a good deal
http://www.harborfreightusa.com/usa/z.jsp?id=91201

disclaimer: I have no connection, just letting you know of a potentially good deal...

Bob G

[Geek]

Such a deal

[BHD]

Oooh! Thanks!

[smoking-amp]

I just got the Harbor Freight metal punch kit #91201 and the hole sizes are NOT 1/2", 3/4", 1", and 1-1/4" as stated in the catalog. These punches are for pipe sizes (pipe ID given).

The actual hole cutouts are approx.: 7/8", 1-3/32", 1-3/8", and 1.7" Not really the correct sizes for tube sockets, although 1-3/32" will probably work for some octal sockets.

Don

[Merlinb]

Dear God that's a bargain! (if they're any good, do they make messy holes??)
Will someone PLEASE buy that and ship it to me in England if I pay with Paypal?

[Brian Donaldson]

Harbor Freight tools are usually of quite low quality. Electrical panels are usually of 16 to 18 ga sheet metal. (I asume that's what they're meant to punch) Anything over that (or harder like stainless) will greatly shorten this tools expected life. If it were my money, I'd spend the 3 times or so for a Greenlee or Klien tool. They're easily up to the task.

But then again, for the more budget consience, the Harbor Freight would be fine for aluminum up to 1/16" or so.

[smoking-amp]

I agree with Brian on this, HF stuff is all made in China and is a big gamble on quality.

I haven't actually tried these punches yet, I was hoping to get a 3/4" punch. But surprisingly, they at least appear to be rather nice units. Even have ball bearing drives. The box claims they are hardened high carbon steel, capable of punching 10 gauge steel sheet, not bad if true. (if you need these odd punch sizes anyway)

I just went and ordered a 3/4" Greenlee punch from Mouser for $37 plus shipping. Thats about 8x the HF price per punch!

If someone really wants these oddballs, you can just call HF up and order them, $19.99 (normal non sale price).
HarborFreight tele: 800-444-3353 or www.harborfreight.com

Says in the box: Do Not operate these products if under the influence of alcohol or drugs! If in any doubt, do not use this tool near utility wires.

Never occured to me before that punches were dangerous, but that got me thinking now. Picturing some deranged guy going around putting holes in car doors or mufflers. Imagine if terrorists got hold of a box of these, God forbid. We better have Homeland Security stop these at the border.

Don

[Brian Donaldson]

If they claim 10 ga, then they will outlast your desire to punch holes in 16 ga and could knok back a few dozen hols in 18 ga SS. But I wouldn't expect them to last long at 10ga and 8 ga would put 'em under.

[hifimaker]

I found that a really good stepped drill bit from the local hardware store for about $20usd makes beautiful holes. Nice and smooth like a punch and a lot cheaper.

A drill press does help. but not necessary.

-David