Provocraft Silent Setter

The Provocraft Silent Setter is an attempt to solve the very noisy problem of setting eyelets. The system is made up of the silent setter tool, three interchangeable heads, a small container with 50 eyelets and a small setting mat. All this is contained in a padded, zippered carry case.

The interchangeable heads are double ended. One end acts as a hole punch and the other end allows you to set the eyelets. The sizes of the heads suit 1/16", 1/8" and 1/4" eyelets. The system works by putting the hole punch end in the setting tool. You then hold the tool by the very large handle, and press down, twisting at the same time. Because the handle is so large, you can use the whole palm to apply pressure.

To set the eyelet, you just flip the head around and repeat the process.

I found the tool fairly easy to use and it was definately alot quieter than using a hammer. However, I think that your wrist would get quite sore after a while. I think you would have to be very careful to use it as ergonomically as possible to prevent injury.

On the whole it was quite effective in setting the eyelets. My only concern would be that they eyelet is not set flat. If you look at the image below, you can see how the back of the orange eyelet is bowed and doesn't sit flat. The yellow eyelet was set with the Silent Setter and then the back flattened with the hammer.

I've seen this on sale for between $20 AU and $40 AU. I paid $25 AU. For that price, I think it's OK value.

One small issue with the small container of eyelets comes with the set. It is stored in a small screw top container. I found that my container was defective, the lid just slipped off the bottom of the container, the screw thread on the lid had stripped and no longer worked. This meant that each time I opened the tool case, I had to be very careful not to spill the eyelets everywhere. Only a small issue, but one to be aware of.

Pros: Very easy to use and the fact that it comes with tools to set the three main sizes of eyelets, its really six tools in one. Great if noise is an issue. I also like the storage case, the padding provides protections for the items, stops them moving around and means they are less likely to get lost.

Cons: My only concerns would be the fact that the eyelets are not set completely flat (and this many not be an issue for everyone) and also the possible pain issue from repeated use.

Quick Review (Out of 5 Stars)

Cost/Value for Money: 4
Usefulness: 5
Ease of Use: 5