As is the case for tools to deal with screws, bolts, nuts, etc., precision, hardness, toughness and maximum regularity are also fundamental for safe, cost-effective work with striking tools. Every day, professionals working in industry and the handicrafts field as well as private users put their faith in PB Swiss Tools that display all of these properties. A special steel alloy and precision heat treatment guarantee pronounced elasticity along with a high degree of hardness. So, for example, if subjected to overstressing, PB Swiss Tools parallel pin punches deform elastically and plastically, rather than suddenly breaking (no danger of an accident). Centre punches made of tool steel are only suitable for working on materials < 40?HRC. For harder materials, you should use centre punches with tungsten carbide tips (see illustration).