Debate at work: Carbide vs HSS for punch dies | Tool And Die Makers

Michael Morgan · 2026-02-25T15:25:42.797704+00:00

So last week, I was fixing a worn-out die and got into it with a coworker. He says carbide is the only way to go for long runs. I mean, yeah it's tough, but high-speed steel is simpler to grind and way cheaper. Maybe it's just me, but I think HSS works fine for smaller batches. What do you guys think?

ruby_thomas436mo ago

Go with HSS for smaller runs, way easier to fix when it wears down. @xenamason has a point about testing hardness, but honestly, for most jobs HSS does fine. Only switch to carbide for huge production lines.

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caleb_kelly6mo ago

Hardness tests are for dies, not coworkers.

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xenamason6mo ago

Did the hardness test extend to your coworker's head?

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