A hammer is a pretty straightforward tool. We all know the basic uses of hammers by now, but you may not realize just how important a tool it is to have in your toolbox. As it turns out, it is also much tougher to find the right hammer than it might seem.
With so many different types and options to choose from, you need help choosing the right one. When all is said and done, you will have the perfect hammer – or hammers – for your toolbox.
Which Type of Hammer?
There are a few factors when it comes to choosing a hammer. You can’t just go to a vendor like RS and choose the first hammer you see. Whether you are doing work around your home or prepping a property for sale, you need to have the right tools to get the job done.
The right hammer depends on the person using it. Choosing the right hammer simply comes down to two things. The first is how it feels in your hand. The second is what you plan on using it for. Those two things will narrow down your search exponentially.
Handle Type Matters
There are so many different handles that can make things seem even more confusing. Who knew hammers could be such a comprehensive subject? The way it feels in your hands largely comes down to the type of handle that you choose. Comfort and durability are paramount when choosing a hammer of any kind.
Metal handles are built for stability and power but might not be the most comfortable. Fiberglass handled hammers are good for limiting vibration from both steel and wood. Electricians tend to favor fiberglass because they are also non-conductive. They might not be best for heavy-duty use but are a good intermediary hammer that can be had for relatively cheap.
Contour and Length
For the most part, the hammers you come across are going to be somewhere between 14 and 18 inches long. You will also find that hammers come with a curved, straight, or hatchet style. The latter has a slightly narrower handle than the other types, which could compromise grip for some.
When working in tighter spaces, a shorter hammer is preferred. Remodelers might not like a hatchet or curved hammer because they catch on the rungs. It all comes down to personal preference and what you plan on using it for. You may have to try a few different hammer types before you ultimately find one that you are most comfortable using on a regular basis. Don’t fret if the first hammer you choose doesn’t quite work for what you need.
Weight
One of the most discussed topics among handymen and professionals when it comes to hammers is their weight. Again, everyone has their own personal preference and opinion on the matter so it may take a bit of trial and error before you find a hammer weight that is most comfortable for your needs. That said, an important consideration to make when deciding on a hammer weight is what it will be used for.
For instance, if you aren’t really using it all the time, a light hammer should do just fine. You don’t need to lug around a heavy hammer for no reason. But if you do a lot of hammering, particularly when working with framing or trim work, a heavier hammer may be better suited. You will learn before long that having a variety of hammers in your toolbox will wind up coming in handy at one time or another.
