How to Use a Hammer With a Pin Punch

Pins are often used to connect and hold casings and external parts of machinery and equipment together. Pins are also used to hold internal parts in place. Some shotguns and rifles, for example, use pins through the receiver to securely hold internal parts. Pins may need to be removed for repair or cleaning, necessitating the use of a pin punch and hammer to loosen the pin and drive it free. Using a pin punch correctly is necessary to avoid potential damage.

• 1

  Position object on a sturdy work surface that is well supported and can withstand the impact of light hammering.

• 2

  Locate the pin to be removed and choose a pin punch that matches. Make sure the punch will easily fit inside the hole in which the pin is located.

• 3

  Hold the larger end of the punch securely and place the smaller end of the punch against the end of the pin.

• 4

  Tap the larger end of the pin punch with a ball-peen hammer to break it free. Continue tapping the pin punch with the ball-peen hammer using short taps.

• 5

  Drive the pin completely out so that it can be easily removed by pulling it free with your fingers.