The ball peen hammer belongs to the broad family of hammers and these tools are crucial for shaping our world. Originating from simple stone tools, hammers have evolved over thousands of years. The ball peen hammer, developed in the late 19th century for metalworking which marks a pivotal moment in this evolution, transitioning from basic implements to specialized equipment.
A ball peen hammer is a common type of hammer that is used in metalwork for shaping metal surfaces by blacksmiths. While the ball peen head is used for peening metals in the workshop and distinguishes the ball peen hammer. Ultimately, it is a general kind of hammer but it has specific uses.
Characteristics of a Ball Peen Hammer
The ball peen is separated from other types of hammer by its round ball peen head instead of a claw face as in other common types of hammers. They generally come with wooden or metal handles depending on the design. The position of the ball peen head is closer to the shaft of the hammer for easy use.
These hammers come in various sizes and weight to suit the needs of different jobs it is used for in the workshop.
The ball peen head is different from other similar types of hammer such as the straight peen hammer and the cross peen hammer. The peen head of both the straight peen and cross peen hammer appear wedge-shaped unlike the ball head of the ball peen hammer.
What to Look Out for When Buying a Ball Peen Hammer
Ball peen hammers are important tools used in workshops, industries as well as households because of their versatility. There are various models of ball peen hammers on the market. Therefore, you will need to choose a ball peen hammer that will suit your needs.
How will you choose a ball peen hammer that is useful and durable? Below are some things you should check before buying one.
Handle
Wood is the most common handle you will find on a ball peen hammer although there are some models with metal and fiberglass handles. Firstly, confirm that the handle properly holds the head and check that the material of the handle is of high quality and can withstand impact and usage over a long period of time.
Material
Secondly, you should check the materials a ball peen hammer is made from, as they determine its durability over time. Manufacturers make the heads of ball peen hammers from hardened steel to prevent chipping during use. Experts recommend a polished hickory wooden handle because it offers durability.
Budget
Lastly, it will be good if you do some research and compare the prices of different ball peen hammers from different brands so as to get a hammer that is within your budget.
Considering adding a Ball Peen Hammer to your toolbox? Dive into our review to find the best ball peen hammers available on the market
Ball Peen Hammer vs Claw Hammer
The ball peen hammer also known as a machinist’s or engineer’s hammer, and the claw hammer differ in appearance and function, despite both featuring a round face for driving or striking nails. A ball-shaped peen on one end sets the ball peen hammer apart, whereas a two-pronged claw for nail removal characterizes the opposite end of the claw hammer and framing hammer.
Primarily used in the metalwork industry, the ball peen hammer excels in shaping welded metals, driving chisels and shaping and setting rivets. In contrast, the claw hammer, a staple in woodworking, is ideal for driving nails, splitting wood and extracting nails from wood.
|
Ball Peen Hammer |
Claw Hammer |
|
|---|---|---|
|
Head Design |
Flat striking face and rounded peen for shaping metal |
Flat striking face with a claw for pulling nails and prying |
|
Primary Use |
Metalworking (riveting, shaping, texturing metal) |
Woodworking and carpentry (driving and removing nails) |
|
Head Design
|
Rounded peen for metalworking |
Split, curved claw for levering and nail pulling |
|
Handle Length |
Typically shorter for precise control |
Often longer for increased leverage and power |
|
Weight Range |
Lighter weights for precision tasks |
Heavier for more forceful blows |
|
Versatility |
Suited for various metalworking tasks |
Staple in carpentry for its nail-pulling functionality |
How to Use a Ball Peen Hammer
In the workshop, workers use the ball peen hammer to shape welded metal, set rivets, and drive cold chisels. Furthermore, the design of the ball peen head specifically suits it for use on sheets of metal and hardened steel. Similarly, workers employ the flat face to strike punches and chisels in the workshop.
It is not designed to be used on wood nor is it made to remove nails from wood. How do you use a ball peen hammer?
- Using any kind of hammer starts with holding the handle firmly in your hand.
- Hold the handle of the ball peen hammer 2 inches above the bottom of the handle.
- This placement enables you to strike the surface you are working on with ease and adequate force.
- Start by tapping the surface of the metal you want to shape with the head of the ball peen hammer.
- Increase the power of the taps until the metal surface begins to bend and move in response to the strikes.
- Slowly work your way around the metal surface with the hammer until you have an even smooth finish on the surface.
When to Use a Ball Peen Hammer
The ball peen hammer is best used in situations that involve:
Metalworking: Its rounded peen is ideal for shaping and bending metal, making it a go-to tool for metalworkers.
Riveting: The ball peen hammer is used to form and set rivets, ensuring strong, secure joins between metal pieces.
Texturing: The rounded end can be used to create textures on metal surfaces, adding aesthetic value or preparing the surface for further processing.
Peening: This process involves hardening the surface of the metal by creating a compressive stress layer, which can improve fatigue life and resistance to cracking.
Jewelry Making: In jewelry making, the ball peen hammer can be used for shaping, hardening and texturing metal jewelry pieces.
Leatherworking: Although less common, the flat face of the hammer can be used in leatherworking for setting rivets and snaps, or for flattening seams without marring the surface.
General Crafts and DIY Projects: For any project that requires precise metal shaping or the need to apply controlled force without causing damage, the ball peen hammer is an excellent choice.
Overall, the ball peen hammer is a versatile tool that is invaluable for tasks requiring precision in metalworking and other crafts where shaping and texturing are required.
How to Care for Your Ball Peen Hammer
You need to maintain the head and the handle of your ball peen hammer. Furthermore, It is important you keep these parts rust free and clean for safe use.
Get a brush or a dry piece of cloth to clean the head of the hammer. Next, clean the peen end as well as the hammer face. Lastly, you also need to inspect the joint between the head and the handle to ensure it is not loose for safety. If there is rust anywhere on the head that needs to be removed, you can use a fine grit sandpaper to remove the rust from the hammer surface. You can also apply rust preventive spray on the hammer head to prevent it from further corrosion.
Additionally, The handle surface can be cleaned with a piece of damp cloth and some soap. Try to avoid soaking the handle in water as this can damage the wood and lead to chipping of the surface. You can also apply a light coat of oil on the surface to prevent corrosion.
After cleaning the head and the handle, dry your hammer. After drying your hammer, it is good you store your ball peen hammer in a dry place away from humid conditions or extreme heat. If you find any loose parts on your hammer while cleaning it, you should consider buying a new hammer because it is not safe to use a broken hammer.
Conclusion
So now you know something about ball peen hammers and what it is used for. If you are going to use one, we hope you use it properly and safely to avoid injury. And remember not to bang a hammer against another hammer, that's a rule I guess. Thank you.