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Ball peen hammer4/6/2023 ![]() ![]() However, today we are only focusing on the ball-peen hammer category.Īnother interesting read: Dead Blow Hammer vs Rubber Malletīall-peen hammers are available in different sizes like four, eight, twelve, up to thirty-two ounces. Mainly there are three types of hammers- the claw, ball-peen, and club. Based on the work type, we have differently shaped and categorized hammers too. We can consider hammers as one of the oldest tools and can’t deny their purpose in various workplaces. They are used to drive screws, to flatten rivets and nuts, to shape metal, and for just about anything else you can imagine doing with a hammer. Ball-peen hammers have a small ball on one end that allows them to bounce back and hit the object they hit with maximum force. Previously known as a sledge hammer, the name ball-peen hammer came into use after World War I when the ball-peen was introduced as an improvement to the original sledge hammer. But what exactly is it used for? And why would you want to use one? Let’s answer these questions and more in this article. If you’re not within an easy drive, we have online courses for you through DIY Blacksmithing.A ball-peen hammer is one of the most versatile tools you can own and is a great tool for homeowners. You’re welcome to join an in-person class at Brown County Forge. Conclusion: Are Ball Peen Hammers Good for BlacksmithingĪbsolutely, as long as you consider weight, the face, and the length. *Please note that links to products on this page are affiliate links from. I purchased that hammer 11 years ago almost to the day. You can see the updated blue version here (mine was black and less flashy, but they work the same). The hammer I’ve used the most is a 15.5 inch Vaughan Cross Peen that weighs 2.5 pounds. Swinging from the end gives you more power.įor what I do in the shop, I prefer a hammer with an overall length of 15 – 16 inches.Choking up on a hammer gives you more control.The longer it is, the more options you have for gripping: ![]() Whether it’s a ball peen, cross peen, or mini sledge, you want to consider the length of a hammer’s handle. Handle Length – The Final Hammer Consideration With a cross peen it means that the metal stays intact, but is compressed and pushed out. With an ax this means that the log is split in two. The wedge shape comes down and moves material to each side. The best way I can describe it is that it functions the same way an ax or splitting wedge does. However, they don’t move metal the same way as cross peens.Ī cross peen hammer is made that way to quickly move metal to either side of the peen. This is great if you want a pebbled or distressed texture. It removes material well and holds up better than cheaper options.īall peen hammers leave a distinct divot when they hit metal. My favorite flat file to use is a 10-inch Nicholson Single Cut Bastard File. You can see in the photo above that there are many sharp edges on that hammer’s face.Įach of those edges and corners can leave a mark on your steel. This means taking a flat file and/or a flap disk to: Whenever I get a new hammer, I take some time to “dress the face.” Hard edges will also create dents that mark up your metal. Hitting on the edge of a hammer’s face will create dents. Having the high point of the hammer face in the middle helps you hit with the center first. Domed – with the highest point in the middle.However, it’s important in blacksmithing to understand the function of a hammer’s face. That’s probably not a phrase you come across often. A 2-pound ball peen to give students more control in knife making class.A ball peen that weighs 24 ounces (1.5 pounds) for working thin flat stock.I use three ball peen hammers when I’m forging: (The overall number of hammer swings depends on the project.)Ī hammer that weighs a couple pounds will be easier to use for a longer period.īall peen hammers come in a variety of weights. You can imagine swinging an 8-pound sledge hammer a few times.īut when it comes to moving metal on an anvil, you have to be able to control that weight for hundreds of swings. Low weight is good for a lot of swinging. The exceptions are fine detail work where a smaller hammer works better and larger jobs where a big one is handy. This is true for most blacksmithing jobs. In classes at Brown County Forge and in my own work, I use hammers that weigh 2 – 3 pounds. Let’s go through each of these to get a better idea of what’s necessary in a blacksmith’s hammer. However, there are a few things to consider when using a ball peen for forging: Are ball peen hammers good for blacksmithing? ![]()
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