Abstract: A punch press having a hydraulic actuator for extending and retracting the ram, a stripper sleeve coaxial with and guidably engaging the ram, and a hydraulically operated clamp encircling the stripper sleeve and normally in a release condition guidably engaging the stripper sleeve. Hydraulic fluid pressure supply apparatus is operable to a first condition supplying fluid pressure to the hydraulic ram actuator to move the ram forwardly, and a stripper clamp spring yieldably urges the stripper sleeve forwardly into clamping engagement with the workpiece as the ram is moved forwardly. The hydraulic fluid pressure supply apparatus is operable to a second condition supplying fluid pressure to the hydraulically operated clamp to clamp the stripper sleeve against movement and to also supply fluid pressure to the hydraulic ram actuator to move the ram to a return position while the clamp holds the sleeve against return movement.