Are spring loaded center punches consistent over time?

[dbosman]

My thought is, that if they are, punching known samples and taking photos of the dimple, to carry for comparison, would be a cheap
-relatively- decent take along tester for scrounging.

[wv109323]

I have a cheap Harbor Freight and the answer is no. I would think that a quality punch may be usable. The striking is done with spring compression and a release. The Harbor Freight release mechanism is not consistent.

[DougGuy]

You have to hunt down a nice vintage USA made piece on fleabay. THEN you will have something worth keeping and handing down to your grandkids.. None of the new ones are worth taking home.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Two-Vintage-Craftsman-4054-Spring-Loaded-Center-Punches-/161080431801?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item25812454b9