Modifying the piercing punch profile may have a positive effect on the belt perforation process. Using the proper shape of the tool may reduce the perforation force and improve the quality of the holes. However complex geometry of the punch can also cause an adverse stress distribution, which leads to a faster tool wear. In presented paper several different piercing punch profiles were tested using FEM analyses in ABAQUS and the obtained stress distributions along its cutting edges were analyzed. For the selected group of the piercing punches, the influence of variable geometrical features (a radius of rounding, an angle of chamfering or a depth of the bowl) on the stress distribution were also shown. Based on the results it is possible to predict how does modifying the punch profile will affect the shortening of the tool life, comparing to the basic flat-end cylindrical piercing punch. Following research can be useful in the design process of the punching tools used for vacuum conveyor belts perforation.