Abstract: A laminated punch assembly (20) is adapted for use in a press brake to bend sheet metal (M) interposed between a punch and die when the punch and die are moved relatively toward one another. The improved punch assembly includes a plurality of plate-like members (24). Each member has large-area obverse and reverse faces (30, 31), and has a peripheral surface. A slot extends into each member from a portion of its peripheral surface, and communicates the two faces. The plurality of members are arranged in face-to-face area contact to define an elongated laminated punch assembly, with the slots of each member being aligned to form an elongated slot in the punch assembly. An elongated insert (26) is adapted to be slidably inserted into the punch assembly slot, and has an exposed bending surface (63) adapted to engage the sheet material when the brake is used.The invention also provides an improved die assembly for use in such a press brake.