The Tekton Scratch and Punch Awl with Hard Handle has a strong, stout blade that is heat treated to 52-56 HRC to make the blade strong without being brittle. A black oxide finish is applied to prevent corrosion. Keep lightly oiled. The handle is made of a hard glass-reinforced nylon that's easy to clean and resistant to fuels, oils, and chemicals. Contoured sides create natural positions for your fingers, and the rounded square shape fits comfortably in your palm. The blade is insert molded into the handle, and two "wings" at the base of the blade resist pushing, pulling, and twisting. Use the awl to scratch thin lines onto a workpiece, mark centerpoints, punch holes into soft materials, or align holes in parts.