A bench hammer is a heavy hammer used for working natural stone at the workbench. The tool has a flat striking face and is used for rough cutting and shaping stone blocks.
Function and use
The bench hammer is an essential tool in the stonemason’s trade. It is used to shape rough stone blocks by chipping away pieces of stone. The stonemason works at a sturdy workbench, hence the name bench hammer.
When working natural stone, the bench hammer is typically used together with a chisel. The stonemason positions the chisel at the desired point and strikes the chisel head with the bench hammer. The weight of the hammer allows sufficient force to be applied with relatively little effort to split or trim the stone.
Characteristics
A bench hammer differs from other hammers through several specific properties:
- Weight — The bench hammer is heavier than an ordinary hammer, typically between 1 and 2.5 kilograms. This extra weight is needed to deliver sufficient striking force when working hard natural stone.
- Striking face — The striking face is flat and broad, ensuring that force is transmitted evenly to the chisel head.
- Handle — The handle is sturdy and ergonomically shaped to provide a secure grip during repeated striking.
Application in construction
In modern construction, the bench hammer is still used for restoration work on historic buildings and monuments. Stonemasons use the tool to produce replacement pieces of natural stone to precise dimensions. The bench hammer is also indispensable for dressing, the rough working of stone surfaces.
In new construction, the bench hammer is used less frequently, as natural stone is now predominantly cut to size by machine. However, the craft of stonemasonry with bench hammer and chisel remains of great importance for the preservation of historic heritage.
Related terms
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