The Long & Short of Using Binding Machines with Disengaging Pins

Some binding machines, either manually or electrically operated, are equipped with disengaging pins. If a pin has the ability to disengage, it can be selected and pulled so a hole is not punched in its particular position.

Some modular punch machines like those from Rhin-O-Tuff allow you to remove the pin completely – just don’t lose it in case you need it later!

Why would I want a machine with disengaging dies?

If you tend to bind books that are sizes other than standard 8-1/2 x 11 in. Letter size (such as 8-1/2 x 5-1/2 in. Half Letter, for example), you greatly benefit from using disengaging pins because you can eliminate a partially punched hole on the outermost top and bottom edges of your book.

My machine does not have disengaging pins. How do I eliminate partially punched holes?

Most office binding machines are equipped with a side guide margin, which helps you align the punched holes within the top and bottom edges of your sheet along its bound edge. The side guide margin is often located near the slot where you slide in your sheets to be punched. Move the guide left or right to shift the sheet’s position.