Tack Hammers

About Tack Hammers

Tack hammers are specialised lightweight hammers designed for precision work with small fasteners such as upholstery tacks, panel pins, and decorative nails. Featuring a smaller striking face and reduced head weight compared to standard claw hammers, these tools deliver controlled, accurate strikes without damaging delicate materials or surrounding surfaces. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks quality tack hammers from trusted manufacturers including Draper and Estwing, catering to both professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts.

Available with magnetic or non-magnetic heads, tack hammers typically weigh between 100-200 grams and feature compact heads measuring 15-25mm across the striking face. This reduced size allows users to work in confined spaces and achieve precise placement of small fasteners. Many models include comfortable contoured handles for extended use, with options ranging from traditional hardwood to modern fibreglass construction for improved durability and shock absorption.

Applications

Tack hammers are essential tools for various trades and applications, including:

• Upholstery and furniture restoration: Installing tacks, gimp pins, and decorative nails on chairs, sofas, and antique furniture
• Picture framing: Securing backing boards and delicate mouldings without splitting the wood
• Carpentry and joinery: Fitting panel pins, veneer pins, and small brads in cabinet making
• Crafts and hobbies: Model making, leatherwork, and decorative projects requiring small fasteners
• Musical instrument repair: Precise work on piano felts and other delicate components
• Sign making: Attaching small fixings to wooden and composite sign boards

Choosing The Right Tack Hammers

When selecting a tack hammer from MyToolShed.co.uk, consider these key factors:

• Magnetic head: Magnetic versions like the Draper Expert hold tacks and pins in position, allowing one-handed operation ideal for upholstery work
• Head weight: Lighter heads (100-150g) suit delicate materials, whilst slightly heavier options provide more driving force for harder woods
• Face size: Smaller striking faces offer greater precision, whilst slightly larger faces reduce the risk of missing small fastener heads
• Handle material: Traditional hardwood provides classic feel and balance; fibreglass handles like those on Estwing models offer enhanced durability and vibration dampening
• Handle length: Shorter handles (200-250mm) improve control for detailed work; consider your typical applications and workspace constraints
• Build quality: Professional-grade tools feature secure head attachment and balanced weight distribution for consistent performance

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a tack hammer and a pin hammer?

Whilst similar, tack hammers typically have smaller, lighter heads specifically designed for upholstery tacks and decorative work. Pin hammers are often slightly larger and used for general light carpentry with panel pins. Many models at MyToolShed.co.uk are versatile enough for both applications.

Why would I choose a magnetic tack hammer?

Magnetic tack hammers hold the fastener on the striking face, allowing you to position and drive tacks with one hand whilst holding fabric or material with the other. This proves invaluable for upholstery work and any application where you cannot easily hold both the fastener and hammer simultaneously.

Can tack hammers be used with modern staple guns?

Tack hammers complement rather than replace staple guns. They're ideal for finishing work, decorative applications, and situations where traditional tacks provide superior aesthetics or holding power compared to staples, particularly in furniture restoration and high-end upholstery projects.