Abstract: This disclosure relates to a stripper insert, and to a method of making and using the insert in a sheet punching apparatus. The stripper insert is comprised of a plastic component inserted within a cup-shaped metallic retainer plate. The retainer plate includes a base for engaging and stabilizing sheet material during a punching operation, with a flange peripherally circumscribing the base and extending generally perpendicular thereto. The plastic component also includes a base which is peripherally received by the retainer plate flange. In one embodiment, an axial bore is formed through the base of both the plastic component and the retainer plate by a reciprocal punching tool while the component parts of stripper insert are secured in position on the sheet punching apparatus. In a second embodiment, the retainer plate includes a previously formed opening, and an axial bore is formed in only the plastic component by the punching tool.