Quick Picks
- Best Overall: Lyman Brass Tapper — Product, type, sporting, goods in a practical, easy-to-use package.
- Best Value: Picard Riveting 2000g — Classic, riveting, hammer, industry in a practical, easy-to-use package.
- Best For Long-Term Use: Picard Blacksmith 1000g — Traditional, swedish, blacksmith, hammer in a practical, easy-to-use package.
- Best Slim Design: Megacast 6oz Non — High-quality, materials, this, uniquemallet in a practical, easy-to-use package.
- Best With Advanced Safety: Grace Usa 8 Ounce Brass — Precision, manufactured, hand, turned in a practical, easy-to-use package.
Product Reviews
Lyman Brass Tapper
This pick focuses on product, type, sporting, goods.
- Lightweight build reduces fatigue during long use.
Picard Riveting 2000g
This pick focuses on classic, riveting, hammer, industry.
- Solid build quality with practical controls.
- Comfortable to handle for extended time.
- Consistent results once you dial it in.
Picard Blacksmith 1000g
This pick focuses on traditional, swedish, blacksmith, hammer.
- Solid build quality with practical controls.
- Comfortable to handle for extended time.
- Consistent results once you dial it in.
Megacast 6oz Non
This pick focuses on high-quality, materials, this, uniquemallet.
- Solid build quality with practical controls.
- Comfortable to handle for extended time.
- Consistent results once you dial it in.
Grace Usa 8 Ounce Brass
This pick focuses on precision, manufactured, hand, turned.
- Solid build quality with practical controls.
- Comfortable to handle for extended time.
- Consistent results once you dial it in.
Grace Usa Bh
This pick focuses on precision, manufactured, hand, turned.
- Solid build quality with practical controls.
- Comfortable to handle for extended time.
- Consistent results once you dial it in.
Blacksmiths' 0000811
This pick focuses on professional, grade, hammer, cross.
- Solid build quality with practical controls.
- Comfortable to handle for extended time.
- Consistent results once you dial it in.
Performance Tool 1935 2lb Fi…
This pick focuses on durable, steel, head, performance.
- Solid build quality with practical controls.
- Comfortable to handle for extended time.
- Consistent results once you dial it in.
Comparison Overview
| Item | Lyman Brass Tapper | Picard Riveting 2000g | Picard Blacksmith 1000g | Megacast 6oz Non | Grace Usa 8 Ounce Brass | Grace Usa Bh |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rotation | — | — | — | — | 360° | 360° |
| Rear-Facing | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Modes | Convertible | Convertible | Convertible | Convertible | Convertible | Convertible |
| Install | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Slim | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Cleaning | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Safety | Meets Standards | Meets Standards | Meets Standards | Meets Standards | Meets Standards | Meets Standards |
Best Hammer For Black Powder Gunsmiths
Working on black powder firearms is a special craft. It requires precision and the right tools. A good hammer is essential for gunsmiths. It helps with delicate tasks. It also aids in more robust work. We looked at several hammers. We focused on what black powder gunsmiths need. This guide helps you choose the best hammer.
How We Picked
We considered several factors. Material is important for hammers. We looked at brass and steel heads. We also checked handle materials. Hickory and fiberglass are common. We examined hammer weight. Lighter hammers suit fine work. Heavier hammers handle tougher jobs. We also looked at special features. Non-marring heads are a plus. We read user reviews. We wanted to know about durability. We also checked for ease of use. Price was a consideration too. We aimed for good value.
Buying Guide
Choosing a hammer involves understanding your needs. Black powder gunsmiths have varied tasks. Some jobs need a gentle touch. Others require more force. Let’s break down what to look for.
Hammer Head Material
Hammer heads come in different materials. Brass is a popular choice. Brass is softer than steel. This means it won’t damage delicate parts. It also produces fewer sparks. This is important for safety. Steel hammers are stronger. They offer more impact. However, they can easily mar surfaces. Some hammers have interchangeable heads. This gives you flexibility. You can switch between brass and nylon. This allows for different levels of force.
Hammer Weight
Hammer weight matters a lot. A lighter hammer offers more control. This is good for detailed work. It helps prevent mistakes. A heavier hammer delivers more power. It’s useful for driving pins. It can also help with shaping metal. For black powder gunsmiths, a range of weights is ideal. You might need a small hammer for fine adjustments. You might also need a larger one for assembly. Many gunsmiths prefer hammers between 4 and 8 ounces. Some specialized tasks might need more.
Handle Material And Design
The handle affects comfort and control. Hickory is a traditional choice. It’s strong and absorbs shock well. This reduces hand fatigue. Fiberglass handles are also common. They are lightweight and durable. They often have good grip features. A comfortable grip is crucial. You’ll be holding the hammer for a while. Look for handles that fit your hand. Some handles have a dual-curved design. This can improve ergonomics. A secure head-to-handle connection is vital. This ensures safety and durability. Look for features like ring wedges.
Special Features For Gunsmithing
Some hammers have features specific to gunsmithing. Non-marring heads are a prime example. These protect the finish of firearms. They prevent scratches and dents. Non-sparking materials are also important. This is especially true when working with potentially flammable materials. Interchangeable heads add versatility. You can adapt the hammer to different tasks.
Specific Hammer Recommendations
Let’s look at some hammers that fit these criteria.
The Lyman Brass Tapper Hammer is a solid choice. It’s designed for gunsmithing. Its brass head is gentle on finishes. It’s a good option for delicate work. The handle is comfortable. It’s a straightforward, reliable tool.
The Grace USA 8 Ounce Brass Hammer is another excellent pick. It’s made in the USA. This hammer features a brass head. It also has a Delrin tip. This offers a softer striking option. The hickory handle is well-made. It provides good shock absorption. This hammer is precision manufactured. It’s built for accuracy and durability.
For a lighter option, consider the Grace USA BH-4 4 Ounce Brass Hammer. This hammer is also made in the USA. It’s perfect for very fine adjustments. The brass head protects finishes. It produces very little reverberation. It also creates no sparks. The hickory handle ensures a good grip.
The Megacast 6OZ Non-Sparking Brass & Nylon Gunsmith Hammer offers versatility. It comes with replaceable heads. You get both brass and nylon options. This allows you to tailor the hardness. The chrome-plated steel hammer is durable. The handle is lightweight and comfortable. It’s suitable for extended use. The small size makes it great for intricate tasks.
For heavier work, you might need a blacksmith-style hammer. The Picard Blacksmith Hammer 1000g is a good example. This Swedish pattern hammer has a cross peen. It’s made from high-quality alloyed steel. The black powder coating adds durability. The ash handle is ergonomically designed. It absorbs shock well. This hammer is built for demanding tasks. It’s ideal for shaping and forging.
The Picard Riveting Hammer 2000g is even heavier. It’s designed for industrial use. It features a ground face and cross peen. The alloy steel head is very durable. The black powder coating protects it. The hickory handle has a secure connection. This hammer offers significant power. It’s for tasks requiring substantial force.
A more budget-friendly option is the Blacksmiths’ Hammer 0000811-1000. This hammer is also a Swedish pattern. It has a round face and a wedge-peen. It’s made from hardened alloyed steel. The black powder coating enhances its lifespan. The dual-curved hickory handle provides comfort. It’s a good all-around hammer for metalworking.
We also saw the Performance Tool 1935 2lb Fiberglass Handle Sledge Hammer. This is a much heavier tool. It’s designed for demolition. It’s likely too heavy for most gunsmithing. However, it shows the range of hammer types available. We are focusing on lighter, more precise tools.
FAQs
What is the best weight for a gunsmithing hammer?
For general gunsmithing, hammers between 4 and 8 ounces are often best. Lighter hammers offer more control for delicate tasks. Heavier hammers can be useful for driving pins or minor adjustments.
Should I choose a brass or steel hammer?
Brass hammers are preferred for most gunsmithing. They are softer and will not mar firearm finishes. They also produce fewer sparks, which is a safety benefit. Steel hammers are stronger but can damage delicate parts.
What is a cross peen hammer?
A cross peen hammer has a wedge-shaped end on one side of the head. This shape is useful for drawing metal out. It helps with shaping and spreading material.
What does “non-marring” mean for a hammer?
A non-marring hammer has a head made of a softer material. This material will not scratch or dent the surface it strikes. Brass and nylon are common non-marring materials.
Is a hickory handle better than fiberglass?
Both hickory and fiberglass handles have advantages. Hickory is a traditional material. It’s known for its strength and shock absorption. Fiberglass is lighter and very durable. The best choice often comes down to personal preference and grip comfort.
Do I need multiple hammers for gunsmithing?
Yes, having a few different hammers is beneficial. A small brass hammer is great for delicate work. A slightly heavier hammer can be useful for assembly. Having options allows you to select the right tool for each job.
What is a ring wedge fixture?
A ring wedge fixture is used to secure the hammer head to the handle. It’s a metal ring that is driven into the wood. This expands the wood and creates a tight, secure fit. It enhances safety and durability.
Key Takeaways
Choosing the right hammer is crucial for black powder gunsmiths. Brass hammers are excellent for protecting finishes. Lighter hammers provide better control for detailed work. Consider a hammer with a comfortable, durable handle. Look for features like interchangeable heads. Grace USA and Lyman offer quality brass hammers. Picard provides robust options for heavier tasks. Always prioritize safety and the protection of your firearm’s finish. A good hammer is an investment in your craft. It will serve you well for many projects.