Hammers are essential tools for blacksmiths. Hammers alongside anvils are the two primary tools that unofficially represent the blacksmith profession. You can’t be a blacksmith without having hammers, because they are used to beat red-hot metals and steel to shape. So, it is best to understand the various blacksmith hammer types.
To a layman, hammers are the same, but to professionals in the field of blacksmithing, they are not the same. It is not enough to have just any hammer. It is also essential to get a quality hammer that can effectively perform its purpose. You must be conscious of getting a quality hammer when choosing a hammer.
Here are some of the critical factors to consider when choosing from various blacksmith hammer types:
Weight
The size and weight of a hammer is a crucial factor to consider when selecting your hammer. This consideration is because the size of a hammer will determine how well you can handle it. The weight of the hammer can determine the type of work it will be suitable for handling. If you want to find beating metals easy for you, then you should choose a hammer that you can easily lift and hit. The hammer has to be one that lands on the metal with maximum force without tiring your arm.
Choose Suitable Types
There are varieties of blacksmith hammer types available around. The type of hammer you are choosing should be mostly dependent on the amount of work done. The shape, edge, and length of a hammer can go a long way in determining the form of the metal you want to beat. Examples of blacksmithing hammers available around include ball peen hammers, straight peen hammers, flatters, cross peen hammers, and so on.
Go For A Reputable Manufacturer
The blacksmith market is flooded with many manufacturers of different tools. It is better to purchase equipment, primarily hammers from reputable and reliable outlets. To avoid being a victim of buying fake products of a hammer. Although it might come with a little higher cost, it is better to invest in a high-quality product rather than just a random low-quality tool.
Consider The Cost
You should have the cost you want to invest in a hammer and choose one that fits into your budget. You don’t have to break the bank to get a quality hammer. Consider opting for a used one if you cannot afford a new one. Every blacksmith hammer types come at different costs.
Choose Suitable Style
The style of the blacksmith hammer is mainly dependent on its origin and shape. The shape and form of each hammer style are unique for the place of its origin. The main available hammer styles are German-style hammer, French-style hammer, Swedish style hammer, and so on. Nevertheless, the choice of hammer style is mostly dependent on blacksmith preference.
Conclusion
Tools for blacksmithing are as crucial as the flare you have for the blacksmithing profession itself. You cannot carry out most blacksmithing procedures without some essential tools like a hammer. Hammers are necessary for beating metals to shape, and various blacksmith hammer types come in different sizes, shapes, and weight.
Having a blacksmithing hammer is one thing; having a suitable and high-quality hammer is more important. You must, however, consider several factors before choosing a one if you want a quality and suitable one.