TOOLS OF THE TRADE -HAMMERS
Blacksmiths generally use three styles of hammers of various weights. The basic styles can be boiled down to several shapes. There is the square body cross pein hammer, the common style Ball pein hammer, the straight pein and the rounding hammer. There are other styles dedicated to repousse’ and specialist work.
It is important to match the hammer to your style and the type of forging you wish to pursue. A 900-gram hammer would be recommended when you are starting out. When you have gained some accuracy and dexterity you can move up to the heavier weights.
A couple of tips. Don’t grip the hammer too firm. Have your hand about 2/3rds the way down the handle. Don’t wear a glove on your hammer hand. Swing from your shoulder and let the hammer’s weight do the work. Keep your eye on what you’re hitting and you won’t miss.
If you find the head of the hammer working loose, try cutting a circle of bicycle tyre inner tube and place over the end of the handle. Use a liberal coating of dishwashing liquid and force the hammer down over the rubber. Cut off any excess rubber below the hammer. It won’t come loose again.