Taper Punches

About Taper Punches

Taper punches are essential metalworking tools designed to drive out pins, rivets, and bolts from tight-fitting holes. Featuring a gradually tapered shaft that narrows to a blunt point, these punches allow precise alignment and controlled force application when removing stubborn fixings. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks professional-grade taper punches from trusted brands including Draper and Sealey, suitable for both workshop and on-site use.

Available as individual long taper pin punches or comprehensive multi-piece sets, these hardened steel tools provide the durability and precision demanded by professional tradespeople. Unlike standard punches, the tapered design prevents damage to surrounding material whilst effectively loosening seized pins and fasteners that conventional extraction methods cannot reach.

Applications

Taper punches are invaluable tools across numerous trades and industries:

• Automotive mechanics – removing suspension pins, brake caliper pins, and seized bolts
• Engineering workshops – machinery maintenance and component disassembly
• Agricultural mechanics – servicing farm equipment and tractor repairs
• Metalworkers and fabricators – extracting rivets and alignment pins
• General maintenance technicians – industrial equipment repairs
• DIY enthusiasts – restoration projects and home metalworking tasks

Choosing The Right Taper Punches

When selecting taper punches from MyToolShed.co.uk, consider these important factors:

• Set vs individual punches – comprehensive sets like the 17-piece options provide versatile sizing for varied applications, whilst individual long taper punches suit specific regular tasks
• Taper length and angle – longer tapers offer better alignment in deep holes, whilst shorter tapers provide greater striking force concentration
• Material construction – look for hardened and tempered steel construction to resist mushrooming and ensure longevity under repeated hammer strikes
• Size range – ensure the set covers the pin and rivet diameters you commonly encounter in your work
• Knurled grip – textured handles provide better control and positioning accuracy
• Storage case – organised storage keeps punches protected and readily accessible

Safety Information

Always wear safety glasses when using taper punches to protect against metal fragments and debris. Inspect punches regularly for mushroomed striking ends and grind smooth if necessary to prevent dangerous spalling. Use an appropriate ball-pein hammer rather than claw hammers, and ensure workpieces are securely supported. Never use punches as pry bars or chisels, as this can damage the taper and create hazardous failure points.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between taper punches and pin punches?

Taper punches feature a gradual taper from handle to tip, ideal for initial alignment and loosening seized pins. Pin punches have a uniform diameter shaft, designed for driving pins completely through once initially loosened. Most professionals use taper punches first, then follow with pin punches to complete removal.

Can I use taper punches on aluminium components?

Yes, taper punches work well on aluminium, though use lighter hammer strikes than with steel components to avoid deformation. The tapered design actually helps prevent damage to softer metals compared to parallel punches.

How do I prevent my taper punches from mushrooming?

Regular maintenance is key – periodically grind the striking end flat using a bench grinder when mushrooming begins. Always strike squarely with appropriate force, and use punches manufactured from properly hardened steel as stocked by MyToolShed.co.uk.