Punch hole sizes

[yamahog3187]

Does anyone have any type of chart that tells what size a punch translates to? All of the old books say use a #8 or #6 punch but everything today is in mm or fractions. I can do either but I have no reference to what  a #6 or #7 is. Is it the same as screw sizes? If so is the number the size of the screw or the clearance hole for the screw? Just trying to find a translation. All my searches turn up punch kits for sale but no reference to size. Thanks.

[fredk]

This is a chart from one punch maker. Its not perfect, it doesn't cover all the sizes ~~

and ...... I find that different makers have slightly different sizes for the numbers. Eg, Tandy's #3 is 1/8" = 3.17mm, the #2 above,  the #3 above = Tandy's #4 and the above #4 = Tandy's #5

You might need to draw up your own chart

[alpha2]

And then, how far you punch can change the hole size a couple of sizes! Depends on the thickness and hardness of the leather, what weight maul you use, and how much oomph you put into it! 

So many variables... Making up your own chart, based on your punches, your leather, and your "oomph", would be helpful! I have the same punches, mostly same leather, but my "oomph" has fallen off lately...???

Jeff

[yamahog3187]

On 8/10/2018 at 6:44 PM, alpha2 said:

And then, how far you punch can change the hole size a couple of sizes! Depends on the thickness and hardness of the leather, what weight maul you use, and how much oomph you put into it! 

So many variables... Making up your own chart, based on your punches, your leather, and your "oomph", would be helpful! I have the same punches, mostly same leather, but my "oomph" has fallen off lately...???

Jeff

Thanks to both Fredk and you for the responses. I was actually just looking for a starting point so when I read one of the older books that says use a #3 punch I would have some idea of what size range I needed to be in. Is #3 a 3/32 or  a 3/4. I printed out Fredk's chart and it now hangs with others on my bench.