{"product_id":"glass-breaker","title":"Automatic Center Punch – Spring-Loaded, Carbide Tip","description":"\u003cp\u003eAccurately mark drilling locations in metal with this \u003cstrong\u003espring-loaded automatic center punch\u003c\/strong\u003e, an essential layout tool for jewelers and metalsmiths. Designed to create a precise starting dimple without the use of a hammer, this tool helps prevent drill bits from wandering when drilling into silver, gold, brass, copper, and other non-ferrous metals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe internal spring mechanism delivers a consistent, controlled strike when pressed against the workpiece, while the hardened carbide tip produces clean, repeatable center marks. An adjustable end-cap allows you to fine-tune the striking force based on material thickness and hardness, making it suitable for delicate jewelry work as well as heavier stock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpring-loaded automatic action – no hammer required\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCarbide tip for crisp, accurate center marks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrevents drill bit walking when starting holes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdjustable strike force via threaded end-cap\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDurable aluminum body with comfortable grip\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow to Use an Automatic Center Punch (Before Drilling)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA center punch creates a small starting dimple in metal so your drill bit doesn’t “walk” across the surface. This is especially helpful when drilling into silver, gold, brass, or copper for rivets, screws, pin holes, and stone-setting hardware.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMark your drilling location\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUse a scribe, ruler, dividers, or layout fluid to identify the exact spot you want to drill.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSupport your work\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePlace your piece on a steel bench block or a stable flat surface. For thin sheet, backing the metal helps reduce flex.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePosition the tip\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHold the punch straight up-and-down and place the carbide tip exactly on your mark.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePress to punch (no hammer needed)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eApply firm downward pressure until the punch “clicks” and releases a controlled strike, leaving a clean center dimple.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdjust strike force if needed\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIf the mark is too light or too aggressive, turn the end-cap to fine-tune the spring tension. Test on scrap first.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDrill with confidence\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eStart with a small pilot bit if desired, then drill to final size. The dimple helps the bit start accurately and stay centered.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTip:\u003c\/strong\u003e For polished or curved surfaces, use lighter force and check alignment before punching. A small, accurate mark is better than a deep dent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAlways wear eye protection and secure your workpiece before punching or drilling.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"iFixit","offers":[{"title":"New","offer_id":47273273065646,"sku":"IF145-524-1","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/3001\/6576\/files\/2aqjGQWn41SGDMgs_44349642-208a-43d6-9ca3-300543389ff9.jpg?v=1766295996","url":"https:\/\/pepitools.com\/products\/glass-breaker","provider":"Pepetools","version":"1.0","type":"link"}