Osborne 151 Bag Punch , Sharp As My Elbow !

[J Hayes]

I guess I'm glad I didn't order a slot punch from Texas then if those need reworking too. So then you're faced with do I order one knowing it'll take me time to sharpen it or make one? I made a strap end cutter fro a piece of stainless 1" tubing, couple medium taps froma light rawhide mallet and I am through, edge is holding well too.

I did however see some of the Weaver master tools at another guys shop, wow, truely polished to a mirror like finish and one whack on a 3/8 oval punch sent it straight through some 12 oz harness leather and the punch pulled out easily, didn't get stuck in the leather. Nice.

Jeremy

[billymac814]

If you can make your own and do it cost effectively go for it. Some will be more difficult than others. I've made larger arch punches like that and I sort of make most of my dies or I should say most of my dies are made in house meaning I bought all the equipment to do it and have a friend do all the work. The one I ordered from Texas was a little more than he could do though.

Bag punches though would be difficult for the average guy to make though I think. I'm pretty happy with osbornes quality, I got a bad one but that doesn't happen often. Just about any cutting tool requires some polishing first, maybe the Master ones don't, if not and they are reasonable priced which I think they are they might be a good choice.

[particle]

I've been trying to track down my original photos of my punches prior to them being sharpened for the first time, but I can't find them. I'll try to keep looking and post them when I find them.

[CWR]

Bieler's carries some really good slot and end punches. They are a little cheaper than the osbornes and much better finished. The ones I have were sharp right out of the box and have held up well. I bought an osborne 1/2 in bag punch and it split the first time I used it. I also noticed that the end was to small to eject the cut portion. Anytime you can get better quality for less money you better jump on it.

CW

[billymac814]

Can you see or order these online? It looks like they are in PA which would be handy to me also is this an Amish run place?

Bieler's carries some really good slot and end punches. They are a little cheaper than the osbornes and much better finished. The ones I have were sharp right out of the box and have held up well. I bought an osborne 1/2 in bag punch and it split the first time I used it. I also noticed that the end was to small to eject the cut portion. Anytime you can get better quality for less money you better jump on it.

CW

[J Hayes]

After about an hour with my NEW Osborne I think it'll do. 8 blows with a 4 ounce rawhide (bigger mallet at home) and I was through some 5oz chrome tan.

Jeremy

CRW thanks for the tip on Bieler's

[CWR]

I believe they are Amish. They don't have a website. The phone number is 717-768-0174. They will send you a catalog. I have had nothing but good experiences with them.

CW