If you are interested in creating your own dog tags, then you will need to purchase a dog tag embossing machine.

The technology for these machines has been around for decades and many models were made especially for the military. Ever since the shape of the dog tag changed from round to oval during World War II, these dog tag machines have been running at top capacity to produce countless numbers of dog tags. However, the dog tag has made the jump into the civilian market and is one of the most popular accessories found on runways and on celebrities alike.

Types Of Embossing Machines

One of the earliest types of dog tag embossing machines is the Graphotype. These machines were hand operated and required no additional energy other than manpower. If you are interested in creating dog tags the old fashion way or have a minimal budget for your budding dog tag business, consider choosing a hand operated machine. The characters are set by hand on character wheels and the dog tag itself is pressed by turning a crank. If you have a low number of dog tags that you need produced, then a hand powered embossing machine may be a good option. Especially if you are interested in selling your dog tags at craft fairs or trade shows, having a hand operated dog tag machine may be one way to get individuals into your booth to purchase your goods.

Mechanical Machines

As technology progressed, the hand operated machine gave way to the mechanical machine that could produce far more dog tags in a given time than the hand operated variety. The Pannier M10 embossing machine was one of the first, but is still in use today. This machine is a bridge between the hand operated embossing machine and the more technologically advanced automatic embossing systems. If you are planning to run a moderately sized dog tag business, then this machine may be best for your needs. Although the mechanical machine costs more than the hand operated embossing machine, you will save yourself a great deal of time, and in the end, be able to sell more tags using this type of machine.

Automatic Embossing Systems

The latest type of dog tag producing machine is the automatic embossing system. This system is high tech and much more expensive than the other two types of embossing machines. Allowing you to hook up directly to a computer, the embossing machine eliminates the time and hassle associated with setting the characters. Furthermore, these machines are capable of embossing more than just letters, so that you can expand your dog tag business to include highly personalized dog tags.

Whatever type of dog tag embossing machine you use, be sure to purchase one that is made of high quality parts. Expect to spend a hefty amount on the purchase of the machine in the beginning, but you will find that the machine will quickly pay for itself. Furthermore,  you will need to stay on top of maintenance for your dog tag machine, as a broken machine is unable of producing any items to sell.