DASCO PRO

Scratch Awl / Center Punch

Sharpening Instructions

To sharpen a center punch
Cradle the end of the punch between the index finger and thumb of one hand as shown in figure 5-8 resting that hand on the tool rest of the grinder

Move the punch into light contact with the rotating wheel of the grinder with the center line of the punch forming about a 45° angle with the face of the wheel

This will give the approximate 90° included angle required for a center punch

With the thumb and index finger of the other hand Rotate the punch as shown by the directional arrow in figure 5-8

Keep the point cool by using only light pressure on the wheel and by frequently dipping the punch in a can of cooling water

If at any time during the grinding process the Steel turns Blue then you have Annealed it (Removed the Temper or Hardness) and it will Flatten Out when you try to use it. See Instructions Below

Sharpen a prick-punch / awl in the same way with the exception that since the included angle should be 30° rather than 90° the angle between the center line of this punch and the wheel should be about 15°

To Restore the Temper to a Center Punch

Heat Tip to Cherry Red (a propane will work) and While Air Cooling - Brush Repeatedly (single rapid strokes away from you) with a piece of Emery Cloth (to knock off oxidation) while Checking the Color of the Steel, When a Straw Color appears Quiche immediately in motor oil.

This all happens in less than one minute so you must be prepared

This should be the perfect Temper for a Center Punch.

Center punches are made from High Carbon Steel and if left to Air Cool will become as soft a Mild Steel and if Water Quenched while Cherry Red will be so hard that the Steel could Shatter when struck with a hammer.

You must use all due safety equipment like gloves and safety glasses and be careful. Do not attempt this procedure if you do not possess the rudimentary mechanical skills required. Don't blame me if you get hurt. Folks of my generations were taught these simple techniques in the ninth or tenth grade in the great shops in our Public High Schools, we were raised to be mechanics.

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