The embodiment relates generally to a stamping or draw die used for forming a workpiece into a part or component using a first die shoe, a second die shoe and a punch wherein the punch draws the material into a cavity located in the second die shoe. The force is generated during the forming operation are often unbalanced which generates an uneven stress distribution on the component of the die assembly. By varying the position and angle of the guide surfaces located on the punch, first die shoe and second die shoe the stress can be distributed across a greater area of the respective die assembly component to reduce stress concentrations in a localized area and correspondingly reduce the potential for die failure.