A center punch is a pen-shaped tool with a conical point, used for making a small indentation in an object. This allows a drill to make a hole at the same spot without slipping around or drifting away from the desired hole location.

To use a manual center punch, mark the location you wish to make a hole, then place the center punch point on the mark. Gently strike the back end of the punch with a small hammer.

To use an automatic center punch, mark the desired hole location, place the center punch point on the mark. Push down on the back end of the punch. It is spring loaded and will punch a mark when the spring is fully depressed.

Always wear safety glasses when using a center punch