I'm looking for a heavy duty knockout punch. Something that can punch a hole in 1/4 inch 316 stainless steel. Does anyone know where I can start looking for one?

all 9 comments

sorted by: hot top controversial new old
[–] 3 points 1 year ago (2 children)

Hole saws on stainless are tricky but it can be done. Lower speed and moderately high force are the ticket. Spin the drill full speed and you will work harden the stainless. Only plasma can save you then.

And spend the money on cobalt bits!

  • source
  • hideshow 2 child comments
  • [–] 1 point 1 year ago (1 child)

    Yeah one mistake people make with stainless is trying to just take light cuts because "stainless is tough", but all that does is work harden as you try to go in. You really have to push through the cut to ensure you're always reaching fresh steel.

  • source
  • parent
  • hideshow 1 child comment
  • [–] 2 points 1 year ago (4 children)

    Greenlee tool company.

    Or a hole saw. Cheaper than a knockout set.

  • source
  • hideshow 4 child comments
  • [–] [S] 2 points 1 year ago (3 children)

    I was looking at Greenlee but everything seemed to be limited to 10 ga for SS

    This is for relatively frequent use. Would a hole saw not wear out incredibly quickly on 316 steel?

  • source
  • parent
  • hideshow 3 child comments
  • [–] 2 points 1 year ago (2 children)

    Not if it's well lubricated.

    I've cut hundreds of holes, and did not loose a blade in the kit.

    As crude as they are, holes saws will last a long time and cut through a fair deal of depth material.

    Anchor lube or tap magic are your friends

  • source
  • parent
  • hideshow 2 child comments
  • [–] 1 point 1 year ago

    What diameter?

  • source