Parallel Punches
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About Parallel Punches
Parallel punches, also known as pin punches or drift punches, are essential metalworking tools designed to drive out pins, rivets, and other fasteners without damaging the surrounding material. Unlike tapered punches, parallel punches feature a consistent diameter along their entire length, making them ideal for pushing pins completely through holes once they've been started. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of parallel punches from trusted brands including Bahco, Expert by Facom, Faithfull, and Sealey, suitable for both professional tradespeople and dedicated DIY enthusiasts.
Available in various materials including hardened steel and brass, these precision tools are manufactured to exacting standards to ensure durability and reliable performance. Brass drift punches are particularly valuable when working with softer metals or finished surfaces where marring must be avoided, whilst hardened steel versions offer maximum strength for heavy-duty applications.
Applications
Parallel punches are indispensable tools across numerous trades and industries:
- Automotive mechanics - removing pins from brake callipers, suspension components, and engine assemblies
- General engineering - precision metalwork, machinery maintenance and assembly
- Sheet metal workers - driving out rivets and removing fasteners
- Fabricators and welders - aligning holes and removing dowel pins
- Maintenance engineers - servicing industrial equipment and machinery
- Gunsmiths and locksmiths - precision pin removal without surface damage
- DIY enthusiasts - home repairs, restoration projects, and general maintenance
Choosing The Right Parallel Punches
Selecting appropriate parallel punches for your work requires consideration of several key factors:
- Material: Hardened steel punches suit heavy-duty work on ferrous metals, whilst brass drift punches prevent damage to finished surfaces and softer materials
- Diameter: Choose punch diameters that match your specific pin sizes - sets typically range from 2mm to 10mm or more
- Length: Longer punches provide better reach for recessed pins, whilst shorter versions offer enhanced control for precision work
- Head design: Round head parallel punches withstand repeated hammer strikes better than flat heads, distributing impact forces more evenly
- Sets vs individual: Multi-piece sets from MyToolShed.co.uk offer better value and comprehensive coverage for varied applications
- Brand quality: Professional brands like Bahco and Facom ensure consistent hardness ratings and longer tool life
Safety Information
Always wear appropriate safety glasses or goggles when using parallel punches to protect against flying debris and metal fragments. Ensure the workpiece is securely clamped or supported before striking. Use a proper engineer's hammer rather than claw hammers, and strike squarely to prevent the punch from slipping. Inspect punches regularly for mushrooming on the striking end - grind down any deformed heads to prevent dangerous spalling. Never use damaged or cracked punches, as they may shatter under impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a parallel punch and a tapered punch?
Tapered punches have a gradually reducing diameter and are used to start driving pins out, whilst parallel punches maintain a constant diameter throughout their length, making them ideal for completing pin removal once started. Most professionals use both types in sequence for best results.
When should I use brass drift punches instead of steel?
Brass drift punches are essential when working with softer metals like aluminium, copper, or brass components, and when surface finish must be preserved. They're particularly popular in automotive restoration and precision engineering where marring or damage is unacceptable.
How do I maintain my parallel punches?
Keep punches clean and lightly oiled to prevent rust. Store them properly to avoid tip damage. Regularly inspect striking ends for mushrooming and grind flat when necessary. Replace any punches showing cracks, excessive wear, or bent shafts to maintain safety and effectiveness.