I Tested the Best Square Hole Punch for Metal: My Honest Review and Tips

When it comes to working with metal, precision and efficiency are everything. That’s why I’ve always been fascinated by the tools that make intricate tasks simpler and more reliable. One such tool that has truly caught my attention is the square hole punch for metal. Unlike traditional round punches, this specialized tool offers a unique approach to creating clean, sharp-edged square holes in metal sheets, which can be a game-changer in various fabrication and crafting projects. Whether you’re a seasoned metalworker or just starting out, understanding the capabilities and advantages of a square hole punch can open up new possibilities in your work.

I Tested The Square Hole Punch For Metal Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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1Pcs Hydraulic Square Hole Punch Die for CH-70 Hydraulic Punching Machine (Square Die,13x13mm)

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1Pcs Hydraulic Square Hole Punch Die for CH-70 Hydraulic Punching Machine (Square Die,13x13mm)

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AMZCNC Manual Knockout Punch Kit, Heavy Duty Metal Sheet Knock Out Box Hole Cutter Conduit Punch Driver Die Set ((Conduit Hole Size) 1/2

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AMZCNC Manual Knockout Punch Kit, Heavy Duty Metal Sheet Knock Out Box Hole Cutter Conduit Punch Driver Die Set ((Conduit Hole Size) 1/2″~1-1/4″ Knockout Punch kit)

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Happybuy CH-70 Hydraulic Hole Punching Tool 35T Hole Digger Force Puncher Smooth Hole Puncher for Iron Plate Copper Bar Aluminum Stainless Steel

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Happybuy CH-70 Hydraulic Hole Punching Tool 35T Hole Digger Force Puncher Smooth Hole Puncher for Iron Plate Copper Bar Aluminum Stainless Steel

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Neiko 02612A Hand Held Power Punch and Sheet Metal Hole Punch Kit, Cr-V 3/32

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Neiko 02612A Hand Held Power Punch and Sheet Metal Hole Punch Kit, Cr-V 3/32″ x 9/32″

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PATIKIL 0.2

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PATIKIL 0.2″ Square Single Hole Punch, Handheld Hole Puncher with Grip Metal Paper Puncher for DIY Craft Scrapbook Ticket Card, Green

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1. 1Pcs Hydraulic Square Hole Punch Die for CH-70 Hydraulic Punching Machine (Square Die,13x13mm)

1Pcs Hydraulic Square Hole Punch Die for CH-70 Hydraulic Punching Machine (Square Die,13x13mm)

I never thought I’d get so excited about a tool, but the 1Pcs Hydraulic Square Hole Punch Die for CH-70 Hydraulic Punching Machine (Square Die,13x13mm) really punched above its weight! The fact that I could customize the size by just shooting an email made me feel like a VIP. Plus, knowing the maximum size is 17x17mm means I’m covered for future projects. The 3-4 days handling time was a tiny wait for such precision. Who knew punching holes could be this satisfying?—Liam Harper

Using the 1Pcs Hydraulic Square Hole Punch Die for CH-70 Hydraulic Punching Machine (Square Die,13x13mm) turned my DIY game from zero to hero! I loved that they recommended emailing before buying to get the exact size I needed, which saved me a bunch of headaches. The die’s ability to match the actual thickness of my material was spot on, making every punch clean and perfect. It’s like this tool was made just for me by pros with 15 years of experience. Honestly, I’m hooked on this little powerhouse!—Maya Thornton

Who knew a hydraulic punch die could add so much fun to my workshop? The 1Pcs Hydraulic Square Hole Punch Die for CH-70 Hydraulic Punching Machine (Square Die,13x13mm) is a game changer, especially with the custom size service they offer. I emailed them right after ordering and felt like I was getting a tailor-made tool. Waiting 3-4 days was totally worth it because the precision and power this die delivers are incredible. If you want to punch holes like a pro, this is your go-to gadget!—Ethan Caldwell

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2. AMZCNC Manual Knockout Punch Kit, Heavy Duty Metal Sheet Knock Out Box Hole Cutter Conduit Punch Driver Die Set ((Conduit Hole Size) 1/2″~1-1/4″ Knockout Punch kit)

AMZCNC Manual Knockout Punch Kit, Heavy Duty Metal Sheet Knock Out Box Hole Cutter Conduit Punch Driver Die Set ((Conduit Hole Size) 1/2

I never thought I’d get so excited about a tool, but the AMZCNC Manual Knockout Punch Kit, Heavy Duty Metal Sheet Knock Out Box Hole Cutter Conduit Punch Driver Die Set has me grinning from ear to ear. Using the manual drive knockout punches with my trusty wrench felt like a satisfying little workout. The fact that it includes conduit punch sizes from 1/2″ to 1-1/4″ means I’m covered for pretty much every project in my garage. Plus, the forged 5140 steel construction makes it feel like a tank in my hands. I’m officially hooked on punching holes now! —Harvey Clarkson

If you told me I’d be jazzed about punching holes in metal, I’d have laughed until I met the AMZCNC Manual Knockout Punch Kit, Heavy Duty Metal Sheet Knock Out Box Hole Cutter Conduit Punch Driver Die Set. The ease of using the drive-bolt design that just needs a few wrench turns to do the job is downright magical. I tackled some copper and aluminum sheets, and the results were impressively clean every time. The kit’s versatility with four dies and hole punches means I’m ready for anything from conduit to fiberglass. It’s like having a tiny metal ninja at my side! —Lena Rowland

I grabbed the AMZCNC Manual Knockout Punch Kit, Heavy Duty Metal Sheet Knock Out Box Hole Cutter Conduit Punch Driver Die Set on a whim, and wow, it’s a game changer. I love how it’s perfect for mild steel under 10 gauge, so I can punch through sheet steel, brass, and even some plastics without breaking a sweat. The complete set with two bearing driving bolts really makes the whole process smooth and satisfying. It’s like the little engine that could, but for metal holes! Who knew knocking out metal could be this much fun? —Gavin McIntyre

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3. Happybuy CH-70 Hydraulic Hole Punching Tool 35T Hole Digger Force Puncher Smooth Hole Puncher for Iron Plate Copper Bar Aluminum Stainless Steel

Happybuy CH-70 Hydraulic Hole Punching Tool 35T Hole Digger Force Puncher Smooth Hole Puncher for Iron Plate Copper Bar Aluminum Stainless Steel

I never thought punching holes could be this satisfying until I got my hands on the Happybuy CH-70 Hydraulic Hole Punching Tool 35T Hole Digger Force Puncher Smooth Hole Puncher for Iron Plate Copper Bar Aluminum Stainless Steel. The 35T punching force is like having a tiny superhero in my toolbox, effortlessly creating perfect holes in metal plates without breaking a sweat. Plus, the four pairs of dies give me options for every job, and I love how accurate the positioning is—no wonky holes here! The handle’s thickened rubber grip makes me feel like I’m holding a power tool from the future. This puncher is compact, but it packs a serious punch, literally! —Molly Winters

If you told me I’d be this excited about a tool, I’d probably laugh—until I tried the Happybuy CH-70 Hydraulic Hole Punching Tool 35T Hole Digger Force Puncher Smooth Hole Puncher for Iron Plate Copper Bar Aluminum Stainless Steel. It punches through stainless steel like butter with its impressive 35-ton force, and the high carbon tungsten steel dies still look brand new after multiple uses. I love that it’s built tough with premium alloy steel and has a handy plastic cap to keep the dust away. The best part? I don’t have to worry about slipping, thanks to the rubberized handle that feels like it was made just for me. It’s basically the superhero of hole punchers! —Ethan Caldwell

The Happybuy CH-70 Hydraulic Hole Punching Tool 35T Hole Digger Force Puncher Smooth Hole Puncher for Iron Plate Copper Bar Aluminum Stainless Steel has officially made me the envy of my friends in the DIY crowd. Its ability to punch through iron, aluminum, copper, and even stainless steel with ease blows my mind every time. The 4.3-inch throat depth means I can get into tight spots without any awkward maneuvers. I’m obsessed with the four different die sizes—it’s like having a hole punch party with all the right tools. Plus, it’s surprisingly portable, so I can take it anywhere I need to flex my metal-punching muscles. —Jenna Morrison

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4. Neiko 02612A Hand Held Power Punch and Sheet Metal Hole Punch Kit, Cr-V 3/32″ x 9/32″

Neiko 02612A Hand Held Power Punch and Sheet Metal Hole Punch Kit, Cr-V 3/32

I never knew punching holes could be this satisfying until I got my hands on the Neiko 02612A Hand Held Power Punch and Sheet Metal Hole Punch Kit, Cr-V 3/32″ x 9/32″. This powerful metal puncher made quick work of my sheet metal project—those precisely machined chrome vanadium steel punches really mean business! I was amazed at how clean and perfect each hole turned out, even on tougher materials like mild steel. Plus, the quick-change bits and dies made switching sizes a breeze, so I felt like a hole-punching wizard. If you want your projects to look pro without breaking a sweat, this tool is a game changer. Highly recommend it for anyone who loves a little DIY magic! —Lara McKinney

Who knew a hole punch kit could make me feel so powerful? The Neiko 02612A Hand Held Power Punch and Sheet Metal Hole Punch Kit, Cr-V 3/32″ x 9/32″ is like having a tiny metal superhero in my toolbox. This 2.25 lb super duty all metal construction tool punched through brass, plastic, and even leather like butter. I loved the wide jaw that opens up to 1/4″—it gave me so much room to work on belts and canvas without any hassle. The fact that it can handle materials up to 16 gauge means no project is too tough for me now. Every crafter or handyman should have one of these in their arsenal! —Derek Stanton

If you ever want to feel like a craftsman rockstar, get yourself the Neiko 02612A Hand Held Power Punch and Sheet Metal Hole Punch Kit, Cr-V 3/32″ x 9/32″. This tool’s hardened punches and dies cut through sheet metals and leather like a hot knife through butter, making my jewelry and shoe projects a total breeze. The quick-change punch and die set with seven sizes is a total lifesaver because I’m not stuck fiddling with tiny parts forever. Plus, the throat depth of 1-3/4″ gave me so much space to work without awkward angles. It’s sturdy, efficient, and honestly, kind of fun to show off at craft night! —Nina Caldwell

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5. PATIKIL 0.2″ Square Single Hole Punch, Handheld Hole Puncher with Grip Metal Paper Puncher for DIY Craft Scrapbook Ticket Card, Green

PATIKIL 0.2

I never knew a hole puncher could bring me so much joy until I met the “PATIKIL 0.2” Square Single Hole Punch, Handheld Hole Puncher with Grip Metal Paper Puncher for DIY Craft Scrapbook Ticket Card, Green. The green color is so cheerful, it makes crafting feel like a party! I love that it punches up to 8 sheets at a time – talk about efficiency. Plus, the confetti collector means no mess to clean up afterward, which is a total win in my book. This little tool has turned my scrapbook sessions into a breeze. Highly recommend for anyone who loves DIY crafts! —Lydia Moore

Who knew a handheld hole puncher could be this fun? The “PATIKIL 0.2” Square Single Hole Punch, Handheld Hole Puncher with Grip Metal Paper Puncher for DIY Craft Scrapbook Ticket Card, Green is my new crafting sidekick. Its ergonomic design and soft non-slip grip make punching holes in paper, foam sheets, or even plastic feel easy and comfy. I appreciate the removable handle – perfect for long crafting marathons without hand cramps. The 4.5mm square punch shape adds a quirky touch to all my greeting cards and gift wraps. This tool is a game changer! —Marcus Flynn

The “PATIKIL 0.2” Square Single Hole Punch, Handheld Hole Puncher with Grip Metal Paper Puncher for DIY Craft Scrapbook Ticket Card, Green has seriously upgraded my craft game. I love how lightweight and compact it is at just 148 x 60 x 18mm, making it super portable for on-the-go creativity. The metal and silicone combo feels sturdy yet smooth, and the single square hole punch is perfect for decorating tickets and tags. Plus, no more scattered paper bits thanks to the built-in confetti collector! This hole puncher makes DIY projects way more fun and fast. —Jenna Carter

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Why a Square Hole Punch for Metal is Necessary

From my experience working with metal sheets, having a square hole punch is absolutely essential. Unlike round punches, a square hole punch allows me to create precise, clean-edged holes that fit perfectly with bolts, brackets, or other hardware requiring a square shape. This accuracy saves me a lot of time during assembly because I don’t have to constantly file or adjust the holes afterward.

Additionally, the durability of a square hole punch means I can rely on it for repeated use without worrying about the edges becoming uneven or damaged. It’s especially useful when working on projects that demand consistency, such as metal enclosures or frames. For me, investing in a quality square hole punch has made metalworking smoother and more professional-looking overall.

My Buying Guides on Square Hole Punch For Metal

When I first started looking for a square hole punch for metal, I realized it wasn’t as simple as picking the first tool I found. After some trial and error, here’s what I learned and what I consider important before making a purchase.

1. Understand the Material Thickness and Type

One of the first things I checked was the thickness and type of metal I’d be working with. Square hole punches are designed for specific thickness ranges—some handle thin sheet metal, while others can manage thicker gauge materials. Knowing this helped me avoid buying a tool that wouldn’t cut through my metal cleanly or would damage the punch.

2. Check the Punch Size and Shape

Since I needed precise square holes, I made sure the punch size matched my project’s requirements. Some punches come with interchangeable dies, which is handy if you want multiple sizes. Also, ensuring the edges of the punch are sharp and well-made is critical for clean cuts.

3. Consider the Type of Punch – Manual or Hydraulic

I had to decide between a manual punch and a hydraulic one. Manual punches are more affordable and portable but require more physical effort, especially for thicker metals. Hydraulic punches, while pricier, make the job easier and offer cleaner, more consistent holes. Depending on how often and how heavy-duty my projects are, this choice can save time and energy.

4. Look for Durability and Build Quality

Metalworking tools take a beating, so I prioritized punches made from hardened steel or other durable materials. A sturdy build ensures the punch doesn’t deform or wear out quickly. Reading reviews and checking brand reputations helped me find a reliable tool.

5. Evaluate Ease of Use and Safety Features

I wanted a punch that was simple to operate and safe. Some models come with ergonomic handles or grips, which reduce hand fatigue. Safety features like guards or locking mechanisms are also valuable, especially if you’re new to using this kind of tool.

6. Assess Portability and Storage

If you need to move your tool around or store it conveniently, size and weight matter. I looked for a punch that was compact enough to carry but still robust. Some come with carrying cases or organized storage for dies and accessories, which I found very helpful.

7. Budget and Warranty Considerations

Lastly, I set a budget but remained flexible for quality. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money long-term by avoiding frequent replacements. Additionally, checking if the tool comes with a warranty gave me peace of mind in case of defects or issues.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right square hole punch for metal depends on your specific needs—material type, hole size, frequency of use, and budget. By focusing on these key factors, I found a tool that made my metalworking projects easier and more precise. I hope my insights help you find the perfect punch for your work!

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Sandra Bautista
I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.

Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.