Hammers

About Hammers

Hammers represent one of the most essential and versatile tools for any tradesperson or DIY enthusiast, with specialist designs engineered for specific applications across construction, metalworking, woodworking and general maintenance. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range spanning lightweight tack hammers through to heavy-duty sledge hammers, featuring products from trusted brands including Stanley, Bahco and Estwing. Each hammer type incorporates carefully balanced heads, ergonomic handles and specialised striking faces to deliver maximum performance for its intended purpose.

Modern hammers utilise advanced materials such as fibreglass handles for superior vibration dampening, steel shanks for exceptional durability, and precisely machined heads with various face profiles. Understanding the distinctions between claw hammers, ball pein hammers, club hammers and other specialised variants ensures you select the optimal tool for your trade and application, improving work quality whilst reducing fatigue during extended use on site.

Applications

Hammers are indispensable across virtually every trade and application:

• Carpenters and Joiners: Rely on claw hammers and framing hammers for timber construction, cabinet making and finishing work
• Bricklayers and Stonemasons: Use brick hammers and club hammers for cutting, shaping and setting masonry materials
• Metalworkers and Engineers: Employ ball pein hammers, planishing hammers and cross pein hammers for shaping metal components
• Roofers: Require specialised roofing hammers with integrated nail pullers for tile and slate installation
• Electricians: Use engineers hammers for cable clips, conduit fixings and general electrical installation work
• Plumbers: Need club hammers for pipe work, chase cutting and fixing applications
• Welders: Utilise chipping hammers to remove slag from weld seams
• Demolition Contractors: Depend on sledge hammers for breaking down structures and materials
• DIY Enthusiasts: Benefit from versatile claw hammers and soft face hammers for home improvement projects

Choosing The Right Hammers

Application and Trade: Your specific work determines the hammer type required. Carpenters typically need 450-560g (16-20oz) claw hammers, whilst metalworkers require ball pein hammers and construction workers benefit from club hammers for heavier striking.

Head Weight and Balance: Heavier heads deliver more force but increase fatigue. Consider 225-450g (8-16oz) for precision work, 560-900g (20-32oz) for general construction, and 1.4-6.3kg (3-14lb) for demolition applications.

Handle Material: Traditional hickory offers excellent shock absorption, fibreglass provides superior durability and vibration dampening, whilst steel-shafted hammers deliver maximum strength. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks all variants to suit different preferences and applications.

Face Type: Smooth faces suit general purpose work, crowned faces reduce nail damage in finishing applications, and textured faces prevent slipping when striking hardened materials.

Ergonomics and Anti-Vibration: For extended professional use, prioritise hammers with comfortable, non-slip grips and anti-vibration technology to reduce cumulative stress on joints and prevent repetitive strain injuries.

Safety Information

Always inspect hammer heads for chips, cracks or mushrooming before use, as damaged heads can splinter on impact creating dangerous projectiles. Check handles regularly for cracks or looseness, ensuring heads remain securely attached. Wear safety glasses or goggles when striking, as high-velocity fragments can cause serious eye injuries. Maintain proper technique by striking squarely with the hammer face, and ensure adequate clearance around your working position to prevent striking colleagues during the swing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a claw hammer and a framing hammer?

Framing hammers typically feature heavier heads (560-900g versus 450-560g), longer handles for increased striking force, and straighter claws optimised for prying apart framing members. They often include milled faces to prevent slipping when striking large nails, making them ideal for timber frame construction, whilst claw hammers suit general carpentry and finishing work.

What weight hammer should I start with for DIY projects?

A 450g (16oz) claw hammer represents the ideal starting point for DIY enthusiasts. This weight offers sufficient striking force for most common applications including hanging pictures, assembling furniture and basic carpentry, whilst remaining light enough to control accurately without causing excessive fatigue.

Are anti-vibration hammers necessary for professional use?

For tradespeople using hammers extensively throughout the working day, anti-vibration technology significantly reduces cumulative stress on joints, helping prevent conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. The investment in quality anti-vibration hammers is quickly offset by reduced fatigue, improved productivity and long-term health benefits.