Let’s Dive into Obsidian Arms Standard Drive Pin Punch Set
Every seasoned gun owner and tinkerer knows the frustration of a stuck pin. More than once, I’ve been dead in the water trying to disassemble a firearm for cleaning or modification, all because I lacked the right tools. This led me on a quest to find a reliable and durable set of drive pin punches, ultimately landing me on the Obsidian Arms Standard Drive Pin Punch Set.
Unboxing the set, my initial impression was positive. The canvas roll-up pouch felt sturdy and well-made. The punches themselves had a nice heft and the black QPQ finish gave them a professional, no-nonsense look.
I’ve previously used a generic, no-name punch set from a big box store. That set quickly bent and mushroomed after only a few uses. I was also considering a Starrett punch set. Ultimately, I went with the Obsidian Arms due to its lifetime warranty and the fact that it’s made in the USA.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. Could this set finally be the reliable tool I needed, or would it end up joining the pile of discarded implements in my toolbox? The promise of a lifetime warranty definitely piqued my interest.
Real-World Testing: Putting Obsidian Arms Standard Drive Pin Punch Set to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Obsidian Arms Standard Drive Pin Punch Set came during a deep cleaning of my AR-15. I needed to remove the trigger pins and the bolt catch pin. I was working at my workbench in my garage, which isn’t climate controlled, so the humidity was pretty high that day.
The punches made quick work of the pins, even those that were particularly stubborn. The rounded shanks provided a comfortable grip, even with slightly sweaty hands. There were no issues or surprises, just smooth, efficient pin removal.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Obsidian Arms Standard Drive Pin Punch Set has become a staple in my toolkit. I’ve used it on everything from AR-15s and Glocks to shotguns and antique firearms. The punches still look and perform as they did on day one.
There are no signs of bending, chipping, or wear on any of the punches. The QPQ finish has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of rust or corrosion. I simply wipe the punches down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use to prevent any potential issues. Compared to my previous experiences with cheap punch sets, the Obsidian Arms set is a game-changer.
Breaking Down the Features of Obsidian Arms Standard Drive Pin Punch Set
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Obsidian Arms.
- Size: 1/8″ (other sizes presumably available in the set). This is a good general-purpose size for many firearm applications.
- Color: Black. A non-reflective finish that’s also aesthetically pleasing.
- Finish: QPQ. This is a salt bath nitrocarburizing process that provides excellent corrosion resistance and surface hardness.
- Fabric/Material: 4140 Steel. This is a chromium-molybdenum alloy steel known for its high strength, toughness, and wear resistance.
- Length: 4 inches. A good length for providing leverage and control.
- Weight: 0.9 lb. The set has a reassuring weight, indicating quality materials.
- Country of Origin: USA. A detail that speaks to the quality of manufacturing.
The 4140 steel ensures the punches won’t easily bend or break under pressure. The QPQ finish protects against rust, a critical factor for tools used in varying environmental conditions. The country of origin is USA, which often translates to higher quality control and manufacturing standards.
Performance & Functionality
The Obsidian Arms Standard Drive Pin Punch Set performs its core function flawlessly. The punches consistently drive pins straight and true. The range of sizes in the set covers most of my needs.
The punches have proven to be both strong and precise, giving me confidence that I won’t damage the firearm or the pins themselves. There are no major weaknesses that I’ve discovered so far. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a quality punch set.
Design & Ergonomics
The Obsidian Arms punch set features a simple, yet effective design. The punches are well-balanced and comfortable to hold. The round shanks provide a secure grip, even with wet or oily hands.
The set is very user-friendly. There’s no learning curve involved. The laser-marked sizes make it easy to quickly identify the correct punch for the job.
Durability & Maintenance
The 4140 steel construction and QPQ finish suggest this set is built to last. I anticipate that this set will easily withstand years of regular use. The simple design makes maintenance a breeze.
A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s needed to keep the punches in top condition. And the lifetime warranty from Obsidian Arms provides additional peace of mind.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Obsidian Arms Standard Drive Pin Punch Set comes with a high-quality canvas roll-up pouch. This pouch keeps the punches organized and protected. The pouch also makes it convenient to store and transport the set.
There aren’t any additional customization options for the punches themselves. However, the punches are compatible with any standard punch block or vise.
Pros and Cons of Obsidian Arms Standard Drive Pin Punch Set
Pros
- Made in the USA, indicating high quality control.
- Lifetime warranty – Obsidian Arms will replace any broken punch.
- Durable 4140 steel construction.
- Corrosion-resistant QPQ finish.
- High-quality canvas roll-up pouch for easy storage and organization.
Cons
- Only one 1/8″ punch included in set.
- The roll-up pouch may not be ideal for those preferring a hard case.
Who Should Buy Obsidian Arms Standard Drive Pin Punch Set?
The Obsidian Arms Standard Drive Pin Punch Set is perfect for gunsmiths, firearm enthusiasts, armorers, and anyone who regularly disassembles and reassembles firearms. It’s also a great addition to any general toolkit. This set provides the durability and reliability needed for consistent and effective pin removal.
Those who only occasionally work on firearms, or who are looking for the absolute cheapest option, might be able to get by with a less expensive set. However, the Obsidian Arms set is an investment in quality that will pay off in the long run. The only must-have accessory is a good hammer or punch block to provide a stable surface for your work.
Conclusion on Obsidian Arms Standard Drive Pin Punch Set
The Obsidian Arms Standard Drive Pin Punch Set is a high-quality, durable, and reliable tool that is well worth the investment. The lifetime warranty and USA-made construction provide added peace of mind.
At $44.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials and the promise of a lifetime of reliable performance. I would definitely recommend the Obsidian Arms Standard Drive Pin Punch Set to anyone looking for a top-notch punch set. Stop struggling with cheap, easily broken punches and upgrade to a set that will last a lifetime.