How To Choose and Use a Hammer

A hammer is one of the most fundamental tools in any toolkit and is essential for many home improvement and construction tasks. Choosing the right hammer and using it correctly can make a significant difference in the efficiency and quality of your work. In the video above, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to pick and use the right hammer with host Kevin O’Connor.

Types of Hammers

Hammers come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific tasks. They range from heavy-duty framing hammers to specialized options for roofing and masonry work.

Framing Hammers

Framing hammers are designed for heavy-duty construction work, particularly in framing and rough carpentry. They have heavy heads weighing up to 28 ounces and long handles for increased leverage and power. They often feature waffle-faced or checkered heads to prevent slipping off nail heads.

Framing hammers are ideal for driving large nails into lumber quickly and efficiently. These hammers are often used in rough construction where speed and power are paramount. The long handle and heavier head provide greater force with each swing, making quicker work of driving large nails into robust wooden structures.

General-Purpose Hammers

These versatile hammers are suitable for a wide range of household tasks and light carpentry work. They typically weigh 16 ounces and are available with various handle materials: wood, graphite, or steel. They’re engineered to absorb vibration for comfortable use.

General-purpose hammers are ideal for tasks like hanging pictures, assembling furniture, and performing minor repairs. The balance of weight and design ensures they’re comfortable for extended use without causing significant fatigue.

Specialty Hammers

Specialty hammers are designed for specific trades or tasks, offering unique features to improve efficiency. For example, a shingle hammer will often have a hatchet end to chop shingles to size, while a ball-peen hammer is ideal for shaping metal.

• Ball-peen hammer: Used in metalworking, with a flat surface on one side and a rounded end on the other
• Brick hammer: Designed for setting and cutting brick and stone
• Slater’s hammer: Used for working with slate roofing materials
• Wood-shingle hammer: Made for splitting shingles, with a measuring gauge and hatchet end

Choosing the Right Hammer

Selecting the appropriate hammer depends on the task at hand and personal preference. Consider these factors when making your choice:

• Claw type: Straight claws are better for prying, while curved claws offer more leverage for pulling nails.
• Ergonomics: A well-balanced hammer will reduce strain and improve precision. Modern designs often include features such as shock-absorbing handles and magnetic nail holders to enhance usability.
• Handle material: Wood, graphite, and steel handles offer different levels of shock absorption and durability.
• Head type: Smooth faces are versatile, while waffle-faced heads provide a better grip on nail heads.
• Weight: Heavier hammers provide more driving force but can be tiring to use for extended periods.

A 16-ounce general-purpose hammer with a wooden or composite handle is a good starting point for most homeowners. This versatile tool can handle a wide range of tasks around the house, from simple repairs to more involved DIY projects.

Proper Hammer Technique

Using a hammer effectively and safely requires proper technique. Follow these guidelines to improve your hammering skills.

Grip and Stance

Grasp the hammer near the end of the handle, where there’s typically a comfortable curve or depression, and stand with your feet shoulder-width apart for stability. Position yourself so that your dominant arm can swing freely. Holding the hammer near the end maximizes leverage and control. Your stance should allow for a balanced, controlled swing to reduce the risk of injury.

Swinging the Hammer

Your swing should be smooth and controlled. Avoid using excessive force, as this can lead to missed strikes and increased fatigue.

Keep your eye on the nail head throughout the swing. Raise the hammer high in the air, allowing its weight to do most of the work, and then bring it down in a smooth, controlled motion. Strike the nail squarely with the center of the hammer face.

Safety Precautions

Safety is paramount when using any tool. Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris. Inspect the hammer head before use to ensure it’s securely attached, and don’t use a hammer with a damaged or loose head. Keep your free hand away from the striking zone.

Inspect your hammer regularly for signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary. Keeping your work area clean and free of obstructions will also reduce the risk of accidents.

Nail Removal Techniques When Using a Hammer

Removing nails is often as important as driving them. Hammer designs offer various methods for extracting nails. To protect the work surface and increase leverage when pulling nails, place a thin piece of scrap wood beneath the hammerhead. This not only shields the surface from potential damage but also provides a fulcrum point, making nail extraction easier.

Using a Straight Claw

Straight claws are excellent for precision removal, especially in tighter spaces where leverage is limited. The rocking motion uses the curved head as a pivot point, making it easier to pull the nail out without damaging the surrounding material. Here’s how:

1. Position the claw of the hammer under the nail head.
2. Rock the hammer backward, using the curved head as a fulcrum.
3. Continue rocking until the nail is fully extracted.

Using a Curved Claw

Curved claws offer more leverage and are more suitable for removing stubborn or deeply embedded nails. They provide a greater mechanical advantage, allowing you to exert more force with less effort. Follow these steps:

1. Insert the curved claw under the nail head.
2. Pull the handle towards you, leveraging the curve to extract the nail.
3. Repeat if necessary until the nail is removed.

Side Nail Puller Method

Using the side of the hammer can be particularly effective for nails close to walls or in tight corners. Rolling the hammer rather than pulling reduces the risk of bending the nail or damaging the material around it. Follow these steps to remove nails in tight spaces or when additional leverage is needed:

1. Use the side of the hammer head with the nail-pulling notch.
2. Hook the notch under the nail head.
3. Roll the hammer to the side, using the edge of the head as a fulcrum.
4. Continue rolling until the nail is extracted.

Hammer Maintenance

Care and maintenance of your hammer will ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Clean the hammer head and handle after use, especially if it’s exposed to moisture or corrosive materials. Periodically check the head for tightness and re-tighten if necessary. Sand wooden handles to remove splinters, and apply linseed oil to prevent drying and cracking. Store your hammers in a dry place to prevent rust and deterioration.

If you have a hammer with a replaceable handle, make sure to inspect the attachment regularly. Tighten any loose screws or bolts to ensure the head remains secure.

Replacing the handle when necessary can extend the life of the hammer. Handles can suffer damage from repeated heavy use, especially in construction environments. Having a reliable hammer means you’re always prepared for any project that comes your way.