Graphite Lubricant for Hammer Eye Drifting?

[GoodThing Factory]

I read in a previous discussion someone suggested using graphite powder to prevent punches and drifts from getting stuck in hammer eyes. I was wondering if anyone can comment on their experience using graphite powder / provide advice re usage. The products I've looked at have an upper temp limit of 850f which is well below forging temp for punching a hole in 2" 1045 so not sure if I'm seeing the right product. Also, it's pretty pricey stuff - like 30 - 40 bucks for a small amount. I've seen people use coal dust but I don't run a coal forge and charcoal dust doesn't seem to do much good. 

So ... any thoughts on graphite specifically or other methods to prevent locking up would be appreciated. 

[JHCC]

Lots of good discussion threads about punch lube already on IFI -- did you read those first?

Pro tip: the search function in the forum software sucks. Do a google search and include "iforgeiron" as one of your search terms. I just searched on "iforgeiron", "punch", and "lubricant"; the first eight responses were separate IFI threads.

[GoodThing Factory]

thanks for the reply - i didn't but will now. 

[JHCC]

My pleasure.  Remember: the best questions are the ones that show you've done your research, thought about the problem, and still need further illumination.

[Judson Yaggy]

Note on the above linked thread I've stopped using linseed oil as it eventually dries out and now mix the graphite with grease instead.  It's still $5 per pound at the local John Deere dealer.