Hammer buying guide

Contents:

• Key takeaways
• The difference between basic & specialised hammers
• Hammer types and their uses
• Different features of hammers
• Why are there different hammers?
• Choosing the right hammer for your project
• How to clean & store hammers
• FAQs

Hammers are very simple tools that are used to apply force to an object. 

We’re familiar with using hammers to hammer in nails, bash things into position and do demolition work. However, there are actually lots of different types of hammer with lots of different uses. Some hammers have special features for particular jobs, and some are used for delicate or precise work. Some hammers are also designed for certain materials.

It is often easy to see what kind of hammer you need for a job. Most of the time, you just need a common hammer, like a claw hammer or a lump hammer. If you’re doing an unusual job, working with unfamiliar material, or if you’re doing something precise, you might need a specialist hammer.

In this guide, we’ll help you pick the right hammer for any job. We’ll explain what all the widely used basic and specialist types of hammer are. We’ll also explain how they work and how to pick one for a task.

In brief: A hammer is a hand tool used to deliver impact force for driving, shaping, breaking and assembling materials. The main parts of a hammer include a head, face, claw (or peen), eye, handle and grip. Different hammer types are designed for specific tasks, so it’s vital you consider the one you need for your project.

Weight: A lighter hammer provides greater control and precision. A heavier hammer delivers more striking force.

Maintenance: Regular cleaning, rust prevention and handle inspection will help extend the lifespan of your hammer.

Safety: Always wear appropriate PPE, such as safety glasses when using a hammer.

All types of hammers can be divided into 2 main groups: basic and specialised hammers.

Basic hammers are multi-purpose hand tools that are suitable for a variety of tasks. While they’re normally designed for one or two main functions, you can use them for lots of different jobs. Most people are familiar with the majority of the different basic hammers that tradesmen and DIYers use.

Specialised hammers are designed for doing specific tasks, for working with certain materials or for working in certain environments. Sometimes, they’re designed for use in specific trades. Normally, you choose a specialist hammer when a basic hammer can’t do a particular job.

The different types of hammers are designed for different tasks, materials and working environments.

It is often possible to do lots of different jobs with any one type of hammer. However, there are some jobs that have to be done with certain hammer types. You normally need a mallet, for example, to fit visible timber without damaging or marking it. Otherwise, you might need to use a certain type of hammer to achieve certain standards of workmanship. It’s difficult to do delicate work on upholstery without a tack hammer, for example. On other occasions, using a purpose designed hammer means you can work faster or more easily. 

Sometimes, it’s important to use a certain type of hammer for safety reasons too. For example, it’s important to use a non-sparking hammer in a potentially flammable environment.

It isn’t always obvious what kind of hammer you need for a task. Particularly, if you’re doing a job you’re not familiar with.

If you aren’t sure what kind of hammer you need, think about the task you’re doing and the material you’re working with. The amount of speed and accuracy you need to work with can also inform your decision.

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• Can I perform the task with a hammer that I already have?

• Do I need to use a hammer that is specifically designed for the task I’m going to do?

• Do I need to take the material I’m working on into account?

• Would it be better to use a purpose designed hammer for speed or accuracy? – it would be unwise to use a claw hammer in place of a tack hammer for delicate work, for example.

• Are there any safety considerations that affect my choice of hammer?

When choosing a hammer, also consider the weight, handle material, and grip comfort. A hammer that matches the task and feels comfortable to use will improve accuracy, reduce fatigue, and increase safety.

Normally, the best thing is to see if you can do the job with one of the basic types of hammers first. If the basic hammers aren’t suitable, then see if you can find a specialist hammer that will work for the task. 

The most important thing is keeping your hammer clean and dry. This will help stop rust from forming on the head and the handle from deteriorating. 

Always clean your hammer and dry it before you put it away. Keep it somewhere it will stay clean and dry. Toolboxes, shelves, racks and wall storage tool solutions are all good places to keep a hammer. 

If you can, it’s also a good idea to try to keep your hammer in an area with minimal moisture. Putting silica gel in a toolbox can help with moisture. On top of this, it’s also a good idea to try and keep it in an environment with a stable temperature.

Here are some tips on cleaning: 

• Always clean and dry your hammer with a rag to remove dust and debris before you put it away.

• Remove rust from the head with sandpaper, wire wool or a wire brush. You can also use small amounts of WD-40 to treat and prevent rust.

• You can occasionally apply linseed oil to a wooden hammer handle to help it last longer.