A hammer is a striking tool with a head and a handle, but there are dozens of variants, each designed for a specific job. The shape of the head, the weight, and the material determine what a hammer is suited for. Below are the most common examples.
Examples by trade
Carpentry
- Claw hammer — the best-known hammer, with a split claw for pulling nails
- Bench hammer — a general-purpose workshop hammer
- Cross-peen hammer — with a wedge-shaped peen for starting small nails without hitting your fingers
Demolition and groundwork
- Club hammer — heavy, for driving in stakes and demolition work
- Sledgehammer — a very heavy two-handed hammer for breaking stone and concrete
Masonry and stonework
- Brick hammer — with a sharp edge for cutting bricks to size
- Pointing (chipping) hammer — for dressing stone and removing mortar
Fine and protective work
- Rubber mallet — for tapping without damage, for example with tiles or paving
- Ball-peen hammer — with a rounded peen for working metal
- Formwork hammer — with a magnetic head and claw for shuttering work
Applications
Choose the hammer by the weight and head shape that suit the job. A hammer that is too light costs needlessly many blows; one that is too heavy causes quick fatigue and less control. For delicate materials, always use a rubber or plastic mallet.
Related terms
- Hammer
- Bench hammer
- Chipping hammer
- Sledgehammer
- Tool
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