Starrett 117C Punch
- Punch
- Metal
- 1.1 ounces
- Metal
- Better rated than 86%
- More reviewed than 94%
A precisely sized metal center punch from a trusted machinist brand, built for accurate marking rather than heavy striking.
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How it ranks among the 176 punches we track
4.8★ across 4,500 Amazon ratings, Bayesian-smoothed toward the category average.
4,500 Amazon ratings, weighted on a log scale so huge counts don't drown everything.
100+ bought on Amazon last month.
Brand identity, imagery, description and spec coverage.
The ProductDome score is separate from the Amazon rating shown above: it combines the Bayesian-smoothed Amazon rating with evidence volume, tracked demand, and data quality across the 176 punches we track - how the scorecard works · full punches data report. Confidence: high - strong rating volume and complete data.Last refreshed Aug 4, 2026. Data-computed, not a hands-on test. Compiled by the ProductDome Research Team.
Overview
Measuring 4 inches with a 1/8 inch tip, the Starrett 117C is a metal center punch weighing just over an ounce. Its small size and metal handle point to precision marking work rather than heavy demolition.
Starrett has built its name on machinist and metrology tools, and a punch this light and this precisely dimensioned fits that lineage. A 1/8 inch tip is fine enough for marking drill start points on metal without leaving an oversized dimple. At just over an ounce, it is meant to be controlled by hand and struck lightly, not swung like a demolition tool.
- 1/8 inch tip diameter
- 4 inch overall length
- 1.06 ounce weight
- Starrett 117C model
Who it's for
Fits machinists, metalworkers and hobbyists who need a precise center punch for marking drill points on metal. Not the right tool for anyone needing a heavier punch for masonry or rough construction work.
Strengths and trade-offs
Drawn from this product's published specifications.
- Precise 1/8 inch tip for accurate drill point marking
- Lightweight and easy to control by hand
- Compact 4 inch length keeps hands clear
- Too light and fine for heavy demolition work
- Single fixed tip size limits versatility
Performance notes
A 1/8 inch tip diameter is narrow enough to create a small, precise starting dent for a drill bit without wandering across the metal surface. At 1.06 ounces the punch is light enough to hold steady with one hand while striking lightly with a hammer in the other. The 4 inch length keeps knuckles clear of the work surface during use.
Specifications
| Brand | Starrett |
|---|---|
| Model | 117C |
| Material | Metal |
| Item Weight | 1.1 ounces |
| Handle | Metal |
Other Starrett punches
How it compares
This product against the closest alternatives we track in punches.
| Product | Amazon rating | Ratings | ProductDome score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starrett 117C PunchThis product | 4.8 / 5 | 4,500 | 4.4 / 5 |
| Bostitch HP40 PunchBOSTITCH | 4.8 / 5 | 12,587 | 4.7 / 5 |
| Diyife KA1 PunchDiyife | 4.7 / 5 | 9,316 | 4.6 / 5 |
| NEIKO 02638A PunchNEIKO | 4.7 / 5 | 10,900 | 4.6 / 5 |
| Amazon KK0330 PunchAmazon | 4.7 / 5 | 11,786 | 4.5 / 5 |
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Questions about the Starrett 117C
Common buyer questions answered straight from the product spec data - no fluff, no "it depends".
What size is the tip on the Starrett 117C punch?
The tip is 1/8 inch in diameter.
How long is the Starrett 117C punch?
It measures 4 inches in length.
What is the Starrett 117C punch used for?
Its size and metal construction fit precise marking work, such as setting drill start points on metal.