Choosing Between Rotary and Single Tube punches

New Tool Talk blog post! Comparing rotary and single tube punches - Which and Why

Pliers-Type Punch Comparison

     One of the common questions I get is “Please tell me the differences between the rotary punches and single tube punches”. They each have advantages and disadvantages.
      First off rotary punches are made by several manufacturers in a lot of quality and price points. The economy punches are usually made with a stamped metal frame and the tubes are pressed in.  The tubes normally do not come using-sharp and it can be difficult to sharpen them. If a tube is damaged, it is hard to get the tube out and find a replacement tube. Think “inexpensive and disposable”. If you are serious about your leather – these are not the best choice.   The solid frame rotary punches have the tubes screwed in. The frames are more sturdy, and tubes are more easily removed to sharpen or replace if damaged. They normally come with six tubes installed.
      Single tube punches are a solid frame punch that holds a single size tube. In the case of CS Osborne the #00 through #7 have the same thread and can be interchangeable. The #8 has it’s own threading. The #9 and #10 use the same thread and can be interchanged.
     The question comes down to “Which type is better for me?”. The rotary punches are more versatile with 6 sizes of tubes on the same punch. The disadvantage is the rotary punch tubes are shorter with a larger taper angle. That taper can be a factor on thicker leather. The single tube punches have a lower taper and go through thicker leather easier. They have the disadvantage of one size per frame. Although they can be interchanged between some sizes, that is not a quick process, tubes aren’t size marked and get confused. Most of those that try it give up on that plan pretty quick.

The answer is to buy according to your needs.
- If you need something to go in the tack compartment of the trailer or your travel leather tool box – rotary punch and maybe a larger size single tube punch or two depending on your needs. I have seen some saddle makers do this too. The common for rodeo rigs, packers, and horse trainer tool kits is a rotary punch and then a #8 and #10 single tube punch.
- There are shops that have the whole range of sizes of single tube punches. They are ready for about any size hole they need. I would say most of the shops I have visited have the set.
- Some makers buy every other size number to start out – not a bad plan and especially to stock a new shop. If you find you need in-betweens later on, then you can buy to your specific needs.

I hope this helps to clarify the choices in these punches and makes a more informed buying plan for you.
 

Thank you!

 Bruce