A Comprehensive Guide to Hammers

Our guide explores the purpose, different types, materials, and selection process of hammers to help you choose the right one for your application.

Hammers, along with spanners, are among the most essential tools in any toolbox, and are used for everything from driving nails to demolition work. But with so many different types of hammers available, choosing the right one for the job can feel overwhelming.

In this guide, we'll discuss what the various types of hammers are used for and the key features to consider when selecting the perfect hammer for your needs.

Whether you're equipping your team for a demanding job site or tackling a DIY project at home, understanding the nuances of hammers will help you choose the right tool for the job from the wide selection available at RS.

A hammer's ability to deliver a concentrated impact force makes it incredibly versatile, capable of performing different functions that range from delicate assembly to powerful demolition:

• Driving nails: This is perhaps the most common use of a hammer, typically employing a claw hammer to drive nails into wood or other materials for construction and carpentry.
• Shaping metal: Ball pein hammers, with their rounded head, are ideal for shaping metal, rounding edges, and striking punches and chisels.
• Breaking and demolition: Sledgehammers, with their heavy head and long handles, provide the force needed for demolition tasks, breaking concrete or driving stakes into the ground.
• Cabinetry and joinery: Mallets, with their softer heads made of rubber or wood, are used to assemble furniture or gently tap components into place without damaging the material.

Hammerhead

The purpose of the hammerhead is to deliver the impact. It's typically made of hardened steel or other durable materials.

The weight and shape of the hammerhead determine its suitability for different tasks. Heavier hammer heads deliver more force, while specialised shapes like ball pein or claws serve specific purposes.

Face

The face is the striking surface of the hammerhead. It's usually flat and smooth for driving nails or striking chisels, but it can also be textured or shaped for specific applications.

A smooth, undamaged face ensures clean contact, while a larger face provides a greater striking area.

Pein/Claw

The pein is the back part of the hammer, opposite the face. It can be ball-shaped (ball pein hammer), wedge-shaped (cross pein hammer), or curved into a claw (claw hammer).

The shape of the pein determines its function. Ball peins are used for shaping metal, cross peins for starting rivets, and claws for removing nails.

Neck

The neck is the narrow section connecting the hammerhead to the handle.

The neck's strength and durability are crucial for preventing breakage. Look for hammers with well-forged necks and smooth transitions to minimise stress concentration.

Eye

The eye is the hole in the hammerhead where the handle is inserted. It's typically oval or round and securely wedges the handle in place.

Cheek

The cheeks are the sides of the hammerhead, extending from the face to the pein or claw. The shape and width of the cheeks can affect the balance and control of the hammer.

Handle

The handle is the part of the hammer that provides leverage and grip for swinging the hammer. It's typically made of wood, fibreglass, or steel, each offering different characteristics in terms of weight, durability, and vibration absorption.

The length and material of the handle influence the hammer's swing and comfort. Longer handles provide more leverage for powerful strikes, while shorter handles offer greater control for precision work.

Grip

The grip is the textured or contoured surface on the handle that provides a secure and comfortable hold.

A comfortable grip is essential for preventing fatigue and maintaining control when the hammer is in use. Look for grips that are ergonomically designed and provide good traction, even when wet or oily.

The choice of materials for a hammer significantly influences its performance, durability, and suitability for different types of tasks. The head is typically made from a strong, impact-resistant material to withstand repeated strikes, while the handle is often made from a material that offers a good balance of strength, shock absorption, and comfort.

Hammer Head Materials

Steel: Steel offers a good balance of strength, durability, and impact resistance. However, steel hammers can damage delicate surfaces or create sparks, making them unsuitable for certain applications.

Brass/Copper: These softer metals are often used for tasks where steel could cause damage or create sparks. However, brass and copper hammers are not as durable as steel and may deform with heavy use.

Lead/Dead Blow: Lead or dead blow hammers have heads filled with shot (small metal balls) to minimise rebound and deliver maximum impact without damaging the striking surface. This function makes them ideal for tasks like automotive bodywork.

Rubber/Plastic: Hammers with rubber or plastic heads are designed for tasks where a softer impact is required. They are commonly used in assembly work, tile setting, and automotive repairs to avoid damaging delicate parts or surfaces.

Hammer Handle Materials

• Wood: Wood is a traditional and popular choice for different types of hammer handles, offering a good balance of strength, flexibility, and shock absorption. However, wood handles can be susceptible to damage from moisture, temperature changes, and heavy impacts.
• Fibreglass: Fibreglass handles are known for their durability, strength, and resistance to weather and chemicals. They are also lightweight and offer good vibration dampening. However, fibreglass handles can be more expensive than wood.
• Steel: Steel handles are incredibly strong and durable, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications and demanding work environments. They are resistant to impact, moisture, and chemicals, ensuring long-lasting performance. However, steel handles are heavier than wood or fibreglass and can transmit more vibrations to the user.
• Composite Materials: Some hammer handles are made from composite materials that combine the benefits of different materials. These handles can offer a unique blend of strength, durability, shock absorption, and lightweight properties.

Choosing a hammer with the correct weight and balance is important for efficient and comfortable use. A hammer that's too heavy can be tiring and difficult to control, while one that's too light may not deliver enough force for its purpose.

The average weight of a hammer can vary significantly depending on its type and intended use. However, a general guideline for common hammer weights is:

• Light Hammers (200-400g): These hammers are ideal for lighter functions such as driving small nails, tapping in pins, or assembling delicate components. They offer good control and precision for finer work. Examples include tack hammers, pin hammers, and some ball pein hammers.
• Medium Hammers (500g-1kg): This weight range is suitable for a wide variety of general-purpose tasks, including driving larger nails, light demolition, and some metalworking. Claw hammers, framing hammers, and smaller sledgehammers often fall within this range.
• Heavy Hammers (2kg+): These hammers are designed for heavy-duty tasks that require significant force, such as demolition, breaking concrete, and driving large stakes. Sledgehammers and larger framing hammers are examples of heavy hammers.

The balance of a hammer is also important for comfortable and effective use. A well-balanced hammer feels natural in the hand and allows for controlled swings without excessive strain.