Striking Tools Buying Guide: What to Know Before Making a Purchase

Are you a professional or business owner in need of reliable, high-quality hammers and striking tools? Look no further than our comprehensive buying guide. We'll walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed purchasing decision. From understanding the nuances of the many different types of striking tools available to evaluating key features and considering the best options for your specific needs, we've got you covered.

Striking tools are just what they sound like: tools used to strike or hit another object. While the first striking tool that comes to mind is usually a hammer, there are many other types of striking tools that professionals rely on every day. That being said, most of the ones we'll explore in this guide are technically hammers, though that doesn't mean they're all up to the same tasks. From sledge hammers to framing hammers to riveting hammers and mallets, each striking tool is specifically designed for a purpose, task, or job—and many business owners find it useful to keep a range of striking tools on hand for different projects.

Striking tools are especially useful in the construction and contracting industries, where they're often used for both building and demolishing structures. But there are other types of hammers and striking tools, too. Here are some of the most common types you'll encounter and the tasks for which they can be properly used.

Sledge Hammers	Claw Hammers	Rip Hammers	Framing Hammers
A large hammer with a head similar to a mallet. Used for driving spikes, breaking stones, and other tasks.	A basic hammer used by both DIYers and pros. One end can pound nails, while the "claw" is used to pull them out.	A specialized hammer with a claw for "ripping" nails out of wooden boards.	A popular woodworking hammer designed to drive nails through lumber.
Dead-Blow Hammers	Ball Peen Hammers	Engineering Hammers	Drilling Hammers
Similar to a mallet, but filled with small iron balls to reduce its rebound/recoil action.	A metalworking hammer with one ball end and one flat end. Both are striking surfaces used by pros to shape metal.	Engineering hammers have large, heavy heads and are used for driving chisels and metalworking.	Similar to an engineering hammer, but with a shorter handle and a more compact head for concentrated striking.
Blacksmith Hammers	Pick Hammers	Riveting Hammers	Chipping Hammers
A specialized blacksmithing hammer used to shape and flatten metal while forging.	A specialized hammer with a pointed tip used for excavating rock and digging fossils.	A hammer designed to strike and drive rivets.	A strong hammer often used by miners and construction workers to break hard materials like concrete.
Soft Face & Split-Head Hammers	Chisel Hammers	Pry Bars	Mallets
A specialized hammer used when striking force is needed without marking or damaging the surface.	Used by woodworkers (along with a chisel) to split and cut pieces of wood.	Also called crowbars, pry bars are used to pull objects apart, remove nails, and for various demolition tasks.	With a wooden handle and a large rubber head, mallets are striking tools that don't leave impact marks.

While striking tools may not seem especially dangerous when compared with other tools and processes, there are a number of potential injuries that can result from improper use. That's why it's so important to follow safety processes and ensure that your business always has the right PPE and equipment at your disposal when working with these tools. Make sure to provide appropriate goggles and hand protection, as well as screens or shields to protect workers. You'll also want to ensure that everyone on your team is properly trained in using each tool and that your equipment is in good condition, which will lead to fewer injuries and mistakes.

Now that you know a little bit more about striking tools, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to choose the ideal hammers and striking tools for your professional or business needs. From construction sites to workshops and everything in between, equipping yourself with the right tools will ensure you achieve exceptional results.

Looking for hammers and striking tools for your business? Find everything you need at Zoro.com today!

Product Compliance and Suitability

The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.