Hand-held punching machines come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and are all suited to particular tasks. However, somewhat more important is the variety of different sized punches and dies that can be attached to them.
Punches and dies
Sizes
Punches and dies for hand-held punching machines come in wide variety of sizes, typically ranging from 2-7mm (3/32-9/32 inch) in diameter.
Shapes
The majority of hand-held punching machines are supplied with punches that only punch circular holes. However, many manufacturers make punches in a variety of geometric shapes. Check with your manufacturer to see whether they have shaped punches for your model of punching machine.
Some models come with a specially pointed punch made specifically for punching holes through slate.