Gang Punch -- Early Function Test
Early function test with the newly delivered gang punch press that I've been long awaiting. The machine took a little fine tuning, and I've built a simple wooden base for it so I can clamp it and mount it to different tables or work surfaces.
I tested the press on two little pieces of scrap material. After adjusting the cutting depth properly, I finally got a decent end cut and hole punch. I can definitely see the promise and potential of this press in terms of speeding up belt production, as well as making belts more consistently and uniformly. This is going to be a game changer for not only my productivity, but also my quality.
The downside of this thing is its sheer weight. The machine itself weighs about 73 lbs. And I just added a few pounds more with the new wooden base, probably bumping it up to about 75 lbs or more. I had intended to transport this boat anchor to my gun shows, but this will be a logistical challenge, not to mention a back breaker. This will take some careful planning and execution.
The other challenge I have before me is the fact that this thing requires a lot of leverage and force to use, so whatever work surface to which it is mounted and clamped has to be able to bear significant stresses. I'm not sure that clamping this to the plastic tables at the gun shows will work for fear of literally buckling the table into a "V" shape.
I'm working through various scenarios in my head, but so far they are all proving to be fraught with complications and hassles. I'll figure something out. This thing is too cool to leave at home.
There's more exciting news coming from Vanguard Belts in the coming weeks, so stay tuned!
Next Crown Point Gun & Knife Show is May 28th-29th! Mark your calendars.
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