Whether you’re driving nails or pulling them out, having a variety of hammers in your toolbox is essential. Hammers are not just for hammering nails all day long; they serve different purposes and can make your life easier when you choose the right one. In this article, we will explore various types of hammers, from the most popular to the least known, and provide you with images, names, descriptions, and instructions on how and why to use each one.
Table of Contents
- Different Types of Hammers Used in Construction
- Types of Hammers Used in the Industry
- Types of Specialty Hammers
- How to Choose the Right Type of Hammer
- Conclusion
How to Identify Different Types of Hammers
To differentiate between various types of hammers, we have collected models and samples from almost every industry. Each job has unique requirements, which is why hammers come in different shapes, weights, and sizes. They also have distinct handle materials, lengths, and pricing. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of hammers and their uses.
Different Types of Hammers Used in Construction
Mounting Hammer
Framing Hammers, such as the DeWalt Mig Weld Frame Hammer or the TiBone 3 framing hammer, are designed with heavy heads and long handles to provide maximum nail-driving power. The textured or waffled face of the hammer ensures a secure contact between the nail head and the hammer. These hammers come in various head weights ranging from 18 to 28 ounces and are perfect for construction projects.
Finish Hammer
Finish Hammers, also known as Finnish hammers, are lightweight and have smooth surfaces to prevent damage to the workpiece. They are specifically designed for driving small veneer nails and tacks into trim and small wood projects. Finish hammers typically weigh between 10 and 16 ounces and are a must-have for fine woodworking.
Claw Hammer or Mace
Claw hammers, also referred to as mace hammers, are the most commonly used type of hammer. With a slightly larger size and a head weight ranging from 14 to 20 ounces, they are versatile tools for driving, pulling nails, and lifting wood. The smooth finish on one side of the head is ideal for tapping, while the claw on the other side helps with nail removal.
Types of Hammers Used in the Industry
Tacking Hammer
A Tack Hammer is a lightweight hammer with a magnetized face on one side. It is perfect for starting tacks and pins without the need to grab them. By flipping the hammer over to the opposite striking side, you can drive the tack home effortlessly. Tacking hammers, with their small heads weighing around 5 ounces, are commonly used when securing upholstery to furniture frames.
Ball Hammer
Ball hammers are heavy-duty tools suitable for jobs that regular claw hammers cannot handle. They are widely used by machinists and metalworkers for driving out pins and fastening rivets. The round ball on one end is excellent for shaping, while the flat point on the other end is perfect for tapping. Ball hammers come in a variety of head weights ranging from 6 to 32 ounces, and their handle materials can be wood, metal, or fiberglass.
Wooden Mallet
Wooden mallets are ideal for driving chisels or pieces of wood, such as dowels, together. Their wooden composition allows you to strike metal tools without worrying about damage or deformation. These mallets provide a sharper strike compared to rubber mallets but should not be used on delicate surfaces.
Rubber Mallet
Rubber mallets, featuring rubber or plastic compound faces, are perfect for applying force to delicate surfaces like floors and trim. They are frequently used by tile installers to gently tap larger tiles into place or smooth them out. The compound used in rubber hammers varies to reduce bounce and ensure protection while providing consistent striking force.
Dead Blow Hammer
Dead blow hammers are designed to minimize damage to the striking surface while controlling the force of each strike. These hammers have hollow heads filled with sand or heavy metal pellets, which absorb the impact and reduce rebound. Dead blow hammers are commonly used in various applications and are available with plastic compound heads.
Nylon Face Hammer
Nylon face hammers come with threaded or removable faces that can be replaced as needed. They are commonly used in metalworking and jewelry making to prevent damage to metal surfaces during striking. The consistency and durability of these hammers make them excellent for assembly jobs and other delicate applications.
Sledgehammer
Sledgehammers are heavy two-handed hammers primarily used for demolishing and driving stakes. Their large, heavy metal heads and long handles allow for powerful strikes. Mini sledgehammers offer similar functionality in a one-handed design, making them more versatile for various projects. They are also commonly used for driving edges when splitting logs and felling trees.
Types of Specialty Hammers
Straight Pein (Peen) Blacksmith Hammer
Blacksmiths use straight pein (peen) hammers for forging tasks. These hammers have the head positioned horizontally or vertically to the handle, making them perfect for forging knives, horseshoes, and custom metalwork.
Engineer’s Cross Penn Hammer
Metalworkers and blacksmiths utilize engineer’s cross penn hammers to shape metal while heating it. These hammers feature induction-hardened striking heads and hickory wood handles, allowing for precision forging and riveting.
Round Hammer
A round hammer is a must-have tool for anyone working with metal or horseshoes. Its rounded surface allows for quick stretching or spreading of metal at high temperatures. Some round hammers also have a flat side for hammering a hard, flat edge.
Horseshoe Hammer
Farriers and horse owners use horseshoe hammers to secure horseshoes and perform hoof maintenance. These hammers resemble stubby claw hammers, with one side featuring a flat head and the other side equipped with a short claw for nail removal.
How to Choose the Right Type of Hammer
When selecting a hammer, it is crucial to consider the type of work you will be performing. Each hammer described above has its own specific applications. Moreover, it is essential to hold the hammer in your hand to ensure it feels balanced, comfortable, and suits your budget. Hammers are one of the oldest and most reliable tools, so finding one that meets your needs shouldn’t be a challenge.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the type of hammer you choose depends on the work you plan to undertake. Using the wrong hammer for a task could lead to inefficient results or potential damage. When in doubt, consider the purpose of each hammer and select one that feels balanced and comfortable in your hand.
By the way, did we miss any hammers? Let us know in the comments below!