A hole punch is a hand held device that resembles pliers, with an interior bite featuring a rounded steel die or tooth on one head. This die passes through a hole in a steel tongue before making contact with the opposite head. By placing paper between the die and tongue, then squeezing the handles together, a perfectly formed hole is punched through the paper.

This device is called a single hole punch, commonly used at events to punch tickets so that they cannot be redeemed twice. Other uses include tracking customer loyalty by issuing a card, then punching a hole each time a successive purchase is made. When the card is full, the customer might earn a free item or a one-time discount.

Though the typical hole punch delivers a quarter inch round hole, there are other types of punches. A specialty hole punch can punch the shape of a fish, heart, crescent moon, maple leaf, or one of countless other designs. Some hole punches can even punch out a small word, like "yes." Using a specialty hole punch for customer loyalty programs discourages fraud, as a standard round hole punch is commonly available.

A two-hole punch is available for two ringed binders, such as those used for repair tickets or manually written receipts. However, the most ubiquitous hole punch is the three-hole model. Three-hole punches make it easy to use standard printer paper in three-ringed notebook binders.

Some hole punches are made for materials other than paper. Businesses and clubs frequently use a slot hole-punch to make clip-slots in the tops of plastic ID or membership cards. There are also punches for fabrics and leather. At the extreme end of the scale, a hydraulic hole punch will punch screw holes in different types of steel.

If looking for a simple hand-held hole punch, be sure to get one that will meet your needs. Paper hole punches are rated by how many sheets of paper they can punch through at once. If you need to punch through plastic, you'll want a hole punch made for that purpose. The hole punch you purchase should be rated above the maximum thickness you require. Electronic models are also available online and at your local office supply store.