Why Did It Split?

[rodwha]

I generally give a punch a back and forth (short) twist. I'll pay more attention next time and ensure I give it a good twist and less pressure.

It's a new punch that was a bit cheap. It's done well the few other times I've used it. How would one go about sharpening a punch? A file?

[omahaorange]

I generally give a punch a back and forth (short) twist. I'll pay more attention next time and ensure I give it a good twist and less pressure.

It's a new punch that was a bit cheap. It's done well the few other times I've used it. How would one go about sharpening a punch? A file?

A small ignition file would work. Quicker and easier is a small grinding stone on a Dremell tool.

[AlanS]

I generally give a punch a back and forth (short) twist. I'll pay more attention next time and ensure I give it a good twist and less pressure.

It's a new punch that was a bit cheap. It's done well the few other times I've used it. How would one go about sharpening a punch? A file?

A spent shell casing makes a decent punch!

[RenoH414]

A spent shell casing makes a decent punch!

Exactly!! I use a 223 Remington for smaller rg and a 243 Winchester for larger. Then if I need a big hole I also have a 9mm Xikar. Just make sure and chamfer the brass so it is nice and sharp. Very easy to touch up if it gets a little dull.

Reno

[TheHobbyist78]

I generally give a punch a back and forth (short) twist. I'll pay more attention next time and ensure I give it a good twist and less pressure.

It's a new punch that was a bit cheap. It's done well the few other times I've used it. How would one go about sharpening a punch? A file?

It strikes me that one could also use a cone sharpener in a drill on a low power and torque setting. A cone sharpener like the one I use to sharpen my hollow mortise chisel bits. Just a thought.

[rodwha]

It strikes me that one could also use a cone sharpener in a drill on a low power and torque setting. A cone sharpener like the one I use to sharpen my hollow mortise chisel bits. Just a thought.

Is that the cone-shaped grinding piece?