OWDEN 6-Piece Leather Hollow Punch Set Review: Practical Tool for Belt and Strap Adjustments
When you need to add a hole to a leather belt, watch strap, or similar item, a dedicated punch set like the OWDEN Professional 6Pcs. Leather Hollow Punch Set is a straightforward option. This kit includes six punch sizes ranging from 1.0mm to 5.0mm, plus a small cutting mat. It is designed for precise, clean holes in leather and other soft materials, but it is not without its quirks.
In real-world use, this set is most handy for quick adjustments. For example, if a belt is a notch too loose, you can punch a new hole in about 30 seconds. The punches are hollow, which means they cut a neat circle and push the waste material out through the top. This works well on veg-tanned leather, but on softer or stretchy leather, the cut can sometimes be slightly ragged if you don’t use a firm, straight strike. The included cutting mat is a thin, flexible sheet that protects your work surface, but it is not as durable as a thicker self-healing mat. It will work for occasional use, but expect it to show wear after a few projects.
Key functional features include the six common sizes: 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0mm. The 1.0mm and 1.5mm punches are useful for watch band holes or small gaskets, while the 3.0mm and 4.0mm are typical for belt holes. The punches are made from carbon steel with a black oxide coating. They feel solid in the hand, though the edges are not razor-sharp out of the box—they are sharp enough for most tasks, but you may need to hone them if you work with thicker or harder leather regularly. The set comes in a plastic storage case that keeps the punches organized, but the case is basic and the punches can rattle around inside.
One limitation worth noting is the lack of a size guide or punch stand. Without a stand, you have to align the punch by eye and strike with a mallet or hammer. This works fine for simple jobs, but if you need perfectly spaced holes or multiple holes in a line, you will want to measure and mark carefully. Also, the 5.0mm punch is the largest and can be difficult to push through thick leather without a heavy mallet. For very thick belts (over 4mm), you might find the punch jams or requires several strikes. This is typical for hollow punches in this price range, but it is something to keep in mind.
Compared to a rotary punch tool (which has a rotating head with multiple sizes), this set is less convenient for quick size changes because you have to swap the punch piece manually. However, the hollow design of these punches tends to produce cleaner, more uniform holes than a rotary punch, especially on thin leather. A rotary punch can sometimes leave a slightly torn edge if the leather is soft, while a hollow punch cuts more cleanly. For someone who does occasional repairs, the OWDEN set is a solid choice. For frequent, high-volume work, a dedicated punch press or a higher-end set with a handle might be more efficient.
Who is this suitable for? It is ideal for hobbyists, DIYers, or anyone who needs to adjust belts, watch straps, or leather accessories a few times a year. It is also fine for small craft projects like making gaskets or punching holes in thin plastic or fabric. It is not suitable for professional leatherworkers who need to punch hundreds of holes daily, or for use on very thick or dense materials like hard plastic or metal. The set is also not great for left-handed users because the punches are symmetrical but the case and mat are not designed for ambidextrous use.
Overall, the OWDEN 6-piece punch set is a functional, no-frills tool that does its job. It will not replace a professional workshop setup, but for the price, it offers decent value for occasional use. Just manage your expectations: the cutting mat is a bonus, not a long-term investment, and you will need a separate mallet or hammer. If you are looking for an affordable way to punch clean holes in soft leather, this set is worth considering.