Blacksmithing hammers are one of the most essential tools for beginner blacksmiths and bladesmiths. They are used for shaping and forging metal, and the right hammer can make all the difference in the quality of your work.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of hammers blacksmiths use, their unique features, and tips on choosing the right one for your projects.
Different Types of Blacksmithing Hammers
There is a wide variety of hammers available to blacksmiths, each with its own purpose and benefits.
Let’s dive into some of the most common types of blacksmithing hammers and their uses:
Cross-Peen Hammer
A cross-peen hammer features a flat, square face on one side and a horizontal wedge-shaped peen on the other.
This hammer is ideal for spreading metal in one direction, such as drawing out or widening a piece of metal. The cross-peen can also be used for creating texture or decorative patterns on the surface of the metal.
Straight-Peen Hammer
Similar to the cross-peen hammer, a straight-peen hammer has a flat, square face on one side and a vertical wedge-shaped peen on the other.
The straight-peen hammer is used for spreading metal vertically, making it suitable for fullering or drawing out metal in a perpendicular direction to the hammer’s handle.
Rounding Hammer
A rounding hammer features a flat face on one side and a rounded, convex face on the other.
The flat face is used for general forging tasks, while the rounded face helps draw out metal more efficiently by concentrating force on a smaller area. Rounding hammers are versatile and popular among blacksmiths, especially for forging knives and blades.
Ball-Peen Hammer
A ball-peen hammer has a flat face on one side and a round, ball-shaped peen on the other.
While not as common in blacksmithing, ball-peen hammers are used for peening (hardening) the surface of metal, creating dimples or textures, and riveting.
Flatter Hammer
A flatter hammer has a large, flat face that is used in conjunction with another hammer or a striking tool.
This hammer is primarily used for smoothing and flattening metal surfaces, providing a uniform finish. Flatters are often used in pairs or struck with a sledgehammer to apply even force across a larger area.
Sledgehammer
Sledgehammers are heavy hammers with a large, flat face on both sides.
These hammers are typically used for striking other tools like drifts, punches, or flatters, and provide significant force for heavy forging tasks. They can also be used for upsetting or striking large pieces of metal.
Choosing the Right Hammer for Your Projects
Selecting the right hammer for your projects is essential to achieving the best results.
Here are some tips to help you choose the right hammer:
Weight
The weight of the hammer plays a significant role in the amount of force you can apply to the metal. Heavier hammers provide more force, but may be harder to control, especially for beginners. As you gain experience, you may want to use heavier hammers for specific tasks. Generally, blacksmithing hammers range from 1.5 to 3 pounds.
Hammerhead Shape
The shape of the hammerhead impacts how the force is applied to the metal. Different shapes are suitable for different tasks, such as drawing out, upsetting, or fullering. For instance, a rounding hammer is great for drawing out metal, while a cross-peen hammer is suitable for spreading metal in a specific direction.
Handle Length and Material
The handle length and material can impact your control and comfort while using the hammer. Shorter handles offer better control, while longer handles provide more leverage and force. Wooden handles are traditional and absorb shock well, but can break over time. Fiberglass or metal handles are more durable but may transfer more shock to your hand and arm. Choose a handle that feels comfortable and provides the right balance of control and force for your needs.
Skill Level and Project Type
Consider your skill level and the type of project you’re working on when choosing a hammer. Beginners may want to start with a versatile hammer, such as a rounding or cross-peen hammer, before investing in more specialized hammers. As you gain experience, you may find that specific hammers are better suited to certain tasks, such as using a straight-peen hammer for fullering.
Versatility vs. Specialization
Decide whether you want a versatile hammer that can handle various tasks or a specialized hammer for specific jobs. A versatile hammer is a good starting point for beginners, while specialized hammers can help you achieve better results in specific tasks as your skills progress.
Budget
Consider your budget when choosing a hammer. Higher-quality hammers are often more expensive but can provide better performance and durability. However, beginners may prefer to start with a more affordable hammer and upgrade as their skills improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
While it’s possible to use a claw hammer for blacksmithing, it’s not recommended. Claw hammers are not designed for the specific tasks involved in blacksmithing and may not provide the best results.
The ideal weight for a beginner’s blacksmithing hammer is typically between 2 and 3 pounds. This range offers a good balance between control and force, making it suitable for a variety of tasks. As you gain experience and strength, you may choose to use heavier hammers for specific projects.
To maintain your blacksmithing hammers, clean the hammerhead and handle regularly to remove dirt and debris. Occasionally, apply a light coat of oil to the hammerhead to prevent rust. Check the handle for cracks or damage and replace it if necessary. Store your hammers in a dry, cool place to prevent moisture damage.
Yes, you can make your own blacksmithing hammer. In fact, making your own tools is a great way to hone your skills as a blacksmith. You can find instructions and tutorials online, or consult with experienced blacksmiths for guidance.
While it’s not absolutely necessary to have multiple types of hammers, having a variety of hammers in your toolkit can be beneficial. Different hammers serve different purposes and can help you achieve better results for specific tasks. As a beginner, you may start with one or two versatile hammers and expand your collection as your skills and needs grow.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, understanding the different types of blacksmithing hammers and their uses is crucial for beginner blacksmiths and bladesmiths.
By selecting the right hammer for your projects and properly maintaining your tools, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled blacksmith.
Don’t forget to check out our definite list of knife-making tools for beginners for more information on the essential tools you’ll need to get started in the craft.
