The 7 Best Transfer Punches

This wiki has been updated 15 times since it was first published in July of 2019. Instead of attempting to visually align and mark holes in a surface, you can employ one of these handy transfer punches to ensure that the center of the new hole perfectly matches that of the original. Most come in sets of 20 or more, making them appropriate for a variety of projects. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

This wiki has been updated 15 times since it was first published in July of 2019. Instead of attempting to visually align and mark holes in a surface, you can employ one of these handy transfer punches to ensure that the center of the new hole perfectly matches that of the original. Most come in sets of 20 or more, making them appropriate for a variety of projects. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Auto Body Now SAE

Each piece in the Auto Body Now SAE (around $19) is made of robust steel with a black oxide finish, which means they are built to go the distance. For your convenience, the slots in the included stand are labeled, so you can quickly find exactly the size you need.

Chamfered at the top
Largest is just over half an inch
Accurate center points

2. Fowler 33 Piece

Sometimes bigger is better, in which case you might need the Fowler 33 Piece (about $72). With its half-inch to 1-inch range, it is perfect for larger holes. All of the pieces fit neatly into the practical steel stand that is included.

Resistant to corrosion
Clearly marked for identification
Slightly undersized for ease of use

3. Rennsteig Expanding

If nothing less than industrial quality will do, then the Rennsteig Expanding (appx. $110) is a good choice to consider. Unlike many, the three in this set are fully adjustable, giving you excellent alignment and precision every time you use them.

Made in germany
Knurled screw on the top
Spare pins available separately

4. H&H Industrial Products 28 Piece

The H&H Industrial Products 28 Piece (around $20) starts at 3/32 of an inch, but a larger set is also available for bigger diameters. Both offer heat-treated steel that can withstand some abuse, so you can count on them for the long haul.

Won't rust easily
Working ends are hardened
Rack could be sturdier

5. Fowler Xtra-Punch

This Fowler Xtra-Punch (about $98) comes with three master punches and 33 sleeves, and they are color-coded for hassle-free use. They travel well, thanks to the hard protective case, which is lined with foam and has a built-in carrying handle.

Laser-etched size markings
Not too heavy at just under 5 pounds
Very simple to use

6. Neiko Punch Set

The orange stand that holds the Neiko Punch Set (appx. $20) is bright and eye-catching, so you shouldn’t have any trouble locating it on a cluttered workbench. The tools offer a steel construction that’s been treated for durability, with flat bottoms and precision tips.

Good for dot painting too
Budget-friendly price
Best for marking soft materials

7. Spellmaco SSG-33

Professionals who earn a living with their tools may like the Spellmaco SSG-33 (appx. $321), an extremely robust option that is made with high-quality, dependable materials. They measure almost 5 inches long each, and are very slightly undersized to make working with them a breeze.

Heat treated for reliability
Set is heavy at 25 pounds
On the more expensive side

Last updated by Melissa Harr

Melissa Harr is a language-obsessed writer from Chicagoland who holds both a bachelor of arts and master of arts in English. Although she began as a TEFL teacher, earning several teaching certificates and working in both Russia and Vietnam, she moved into freelance writing to satisfy her passion for the written word. She has published full-length courses and books in the realm of arts & crafts and DIY; in fact, most of her non-working time is spent knitting, cleaning, or committing acts of home improvement. Along with an extensive knowledge of tools, home goods, and crafts and organizational supplies, she has ample experience (okay, an obsession) with travel gear, luggage, and the electronics that make modern life more convenient.

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The 7 Best Transfer Punches

1. Auto Body Now SAE

2. Fowler 33 Piece

3. Rennsteig Expanding

Editor's Notes

Special Honors

4. H&H Industrial Products 28 Piece

5. Fowler Xtra-Punch

6. Neiko Punch Set

7. Spellmaco SSG-33

The 7 Best Transfer Punches

1. Auto Body Now SAE

2. Fowler 33 Piece

3. Rennsteig Expanding

Editor's Notes

Special Honors

4. H&H Industrial Products 28 Piece

5. Fowler Xtra-Punch

6. Neiko Punch Set

7. Spellmaco SSG-33

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