Planishing Hammers

About Planishing Hammers

Planishing hammers are specialist metalworking tools designed for shaping, smoothing and finishing sheet metal surfaces. Essential for panel beating and automotive bodywork, these precision hammers feature carefully designed heads that allow craftsmen to work metal without marking or distressing the surface. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of planishing and panel beating hammers from trusted brands including Facom and Sealey, suitable for both professional body shops and skilled DIY enthusiasts tackling restoration projects.

Our selection includes shrinking hammers, finishing hammers, bumping hammers, stretching hammers and complete panel beating sets. Each hammer type serves specific metalworking purposes, from initial shaping and forming to final surface preparation. Whether you're working on classic car restoration, commercial vehicle repairs or custom metal fabrication, MyToolShed offers the specialist hammers needed to achieve professional results.

Applications

Planishing hammers are primarily used by:

• Automotive body repair technicians - for accident repair and dent removal
• Classic car restorers - reshaping and restoring vintage vehicle panels
• Panel beaters - professional metal shaping and finishing work
• Custom car builders - fabricating bespoke bodywork and modifications
• Metal fabricators - general sheet metal forming and smoothing
• Coachbuilders - specialist vehicle body construction
• Aviation repair specialists - working with aluminium aircraft panels
• Marine fabricators - boat building and repair applications

Choosing The Right Planishing Hammers

When selecting planishing hammers, consider the following factors:

Hammer Head Design: Different face profiles suit specific tasks. Shrinking hammers reduce stretched metal, finishing hammers smooth surfaces without marking, whilst bumping hammers are designed for initial shaping work. Pick and pein hammers offer versatility for accessing difficult areas.

Handle Material and Length: Hickory and ash handles provide traditional shock absorption, whilst fibreglass offers durability. Handle length affects control and leverage - shorter handles give precision for detail work, longer handles provide greater striking force.

Weight and Balance: Choose hammer weight appropriate to your material thickness and physical capability. Well-balanced hammers reduce fatigue during extended use.

Complete Sets vs Individual Hammers: Panel beating sets from Sealey and Facom at MyToolShed.co.uk offer excellent value for equipping workshops, providing multiple head profiles for different metalworking tasks. Individual specialist hammers suit professionals supplementing existing collections.

Safety Information

Always wear appropriate eye protection when using planishing hammers, as metal fragments can dislodge during striking. Ensure secure workpiece positioning before hammering. Inspect hammer heads regularly for mushrooming or cracks, which can cause dangerous fragments to break off. Maintain firm grip on handles and ensure adequate working space to prevent accidental contact with nearby objects or personnel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a planishing hammer and a standard hammer?

Planishing hammers feature specially shaped, polished faces designed to work sheet metal without marking or damaging the surface. Standard hammers are too aggressive for delicate panel work and would create dents rather than smooth finishes.

Can planishing hammers be used on aluminium as well as steel?

Yes, planishing hammers work effectively on aluminium, steel and other malleable metals. Aluminium requires lighter strikes due to its softer nature. Many panel beaters keep dedicated hammers for aluminium work to prevent cross-contamination.

Do I need a complete panel beating set or individual hammers?

Complete sets offer better value for those starting out or equipping workshops, providing the essential hammer types for most panel work. Experienced professionals often purchase individual specialist hammers to complement their existing collections for specific techniques.