Sledge Hammers

About Sledge Hammers

Sledge hammers are essential heavy-duty striking tools designed for demolition, driving, and breaking applications where maximum force is required. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of sledge hammers from trusted brands including Draper, Sealey, Roughneck, Estwing, Facom, Faithfull, and Spear and Jackson, offering options to suit both professional tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts.

Available with various handle materials including fibreglass, hickory wood, and graphite core construction, our sledge hammer selection ranges from compact mini sledges for controlled striking to full-size models for maximum impact force. Specialist options include non-sparking sledge hammers for hazardous environments, fencing hammers, and short-handle striking wedge designs for confined spaces.

Applications

Sledge hammers are indispensable tools across numerous trades and applications:

• Demolition contractors: Breaking down walls, concrete, and masonry structures
• Landscapers and groundworkers: Driving fence posts, stakes, and ground anchors
• Construction professionals: Breaking up paving, demolishing formwork, and general site work
• Agricultural workers: Fencing installation and maintenance work
• Railway maintenance: Track work and sleeper installation
• Mechanics and metal fabricators: Heavy assembly and disassembly tasks
• Mining and quarrying: Breaking rock and ore (non-sparking variants for safety)

Choosing The Right Sledge Hammers

Selecting the appropriate sledge hammer depends on several key factors:

Head weight: Typically ranging from 1.8kg for mini sledges up to 6.4kg or more for heavy-duty demolition work. Heavier heads deliver greater impact force but require more physical effort and control.

Handle material: Fibreglass handles offer excellent shock absorption and durability, whilst traditional hickory wood provides natural flex and comfortable grip. Graphite core handles combine strength with reduced weight for extended use.

Handle length: Standard full-length handles (around 900mm) provide maximum leverage and striking power. Short-handle sledges offer better control in confined spaces and for precision work.

Specialist requirements: Non-sparking sledge hammers manufactured from copper-beryllium or bronze alloys are essential for work in potentially explosive atmospheres. Fencing hammers feature a magnetised head for holding nails during post installation.

MyToolShed.co.uk offers sledge hammers suitable for every application, from the Roughneck Gorilla range known for exceptional durability to professional-grade Facom and Draper Expert models.

Safety Information

Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment including safety glasses, steel toe-cap boots, and work gloves when using sledge hammers. Inspect handles for cracks or damage before each use, and ensure the head is securely fitted. Maintain a clear working area and ensure bystanders maintain a safe distance. Use controlled swings with proper stance and grip to prevent injury from missed strikes or handle breakage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What weight sledge hammer should I choose?

For general demolition and breaking work, a 3.6-4.5kg sledge hammer offers the best balance of power and control for most users. Lighter 1.8-2.7kg mini sledges suit precision work, whilst 6kg+ models are reserved for heavy demolition where maximum force is required.

Are fibreglass handles better than wooden ones?

Fibreglass handles generally offer superior durability, better shock absorption, and weather resistance compared to traditional hickory wood. However, many tradespeople prefer the natural feel and balance of wooden handles. Both materials are excellent when manufactured to quality standards available at MyToolShed.co.uk.

When do I need a non-sparking sledge hammer?

Non-sparking sledge hammers are essential when working in environments with flammable gases, vapours, or dust, such as petrochemical facilities, grain stores, or mining operations. These specialist tools are manufactured from non-ferrous metals that won't create sparks upon impact.