Bostitch HP12

Bostitch Office 3 Hole Punch

Model: HP12

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Bostitch Office 3 Hole Punch, Model HP12. This compact, metal three-hole punch is designed for durability and reliable performance in any office or home setting. It features precision steel punch heads that cleanly cut through up to 12 sheets of paper, a stable rubber base pad, and an easy-clean chip tray for a tidy workspace. This manual provides essential information for the proper use and care of your hole punch.

Bostitch Office 3 Hole Punch, Silver

Image: The Bostitch Office 3 Hole Punch in silver, showcasing its compact design.

Safety Information

  • Keep fingers and loose clothing clear of the punching mechanism during operation.
  • Do not attempt to punch materials other than paper, as this may damage the punch heads.
  • Keep out of reach of small children.
  • Use on a stable, flat surface to prevent accidental movement.

Parts of Your 3-Hole Punch

Familiarize yourself with the main components of your Bostitch 3 Hole Punch:

  • Punch Heads: Three precision steel heads for clean hole punching.
  • Paper Guide: Adjustable guide to ensure consistent paper alignment.
  • Handle: The top lever used to actuate the punch heads.
  • Rubber Base Pad: Provides stability and protects your desktop.
  • Chip Tray: Collects paper scraps for easy disposal.
Bostitch Office 3 Hole Punch on a desk with office supplies

Image: The Bostitch 3 Hole Punch positioned on a desk, illustrating its presence in an office environment.

Setup

Your Bostitch Office 3 Hole Punch comes pre-assembled and ready for use. Simply remove it from its packaging and place it on a stable, flat surface.

Operating Instructions

Follow these steps to punch holes in your documents:

  1. Prepare Paper: Gather the sheets of paper you wish to punch. Ensure the stack does not exceed the maximum capacity of 12 sheets. For best results, tap the stack gently on a flat surface to align the edges.
  2. Align Paper: Lift the handle of the hole punch. Slide the paper into the opening, ensuring the edges are flush against the back guide and centered using the adjustable paper guide.
  3. Punch Holes: Firmly press down on the handle until the punch heads pass completely through the paper.
  4. Remove Paper: Release the handle and carefully remove the punched paper.
Hand operating the Bostitch 3 Hole Punch

Image: A hand demonstrating the action of pressing down the handle to punch holes in paper.

Video Demonstration: How to Use

Video: A demonstration of the Bostitch 3 Hole Punch in action, showing how to load and punch paper effectively.

Maintenance

To ensure optimal performance and a clean workspace, regularly empty the chip tray:

  1. Locate Chip Tray: The chip tray is located at the bottom of the hole punch.
  2. Remove Tray: Gently pull the rubber base pad/chip tray away from the main body of the punch.
  3. Empty Scraps: Dispose of the accumulated paper scraps.
  4. Reattach Tray: Slide the chip tray back into place until it is securely fastened.
Underside of Bostitch 3 Hole Punch showing chip tray

Image: The underside of the Bostitch 3 Hole Punch, highlighting the removable chip tray for waste paper.

Video Demonstration: Emptying the Chip Tray

Video: A short clip demonstrating how to easily remove and empty the chip tray of the hole punch.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your hole punch, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

  • Paper Jams: If paper becomes stuck, gently pull it out. Avoid forcing the handle. If necessary, remove the chip tray to access and clear any obstructions from beneath the punch heads.
  • Incomplete Holes: This usually indicates punching too many sheets at once. Reduce the number of sheets to stay within the 12-sheet capacity. Ensure paper is properly aligned.
  • Punch Not Working: Check for any foreign objects or paper scraps obstructing the punch heads. Ensure the handle is fully depressed during operation.

Specifications

Feature Detail
Model HP12
Capacity 12 Sheets
Hole Count 3
Hole Diameter 9/32 inches
Material Metal, Rubber
Color Silver
Dimensions (L x W x H) 10.62" x 1.69" x 2.5"
Item Weight 1.1 pounds
Operation Mode Manual
Bostitch 3 Hole Punch with dimensions labeled

Image: The Bostitch 3 Hole Punch with its key dimensions (length, width, height) clearly indicated.

Warranty Information

The Bostitch Office 3 Hole Punch (Model HP12) is backed by a Lifetime Limited Warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. For specific terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your product or visit the official Bostitch website.

Support

For further assistance, product inquiries, or warranty claims, please contact Bostitch customer support. You can typically find contact information on the product packaging or on the official Bostitch website.

Online Resources: Visit the Bostitch Store on Amazon

© 2026 Bostitch. All rights reserved.

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