A sledgehammer has a long or a short handle and a heavy, oblong head. It's used for
breaking up concrete and for driving heavy spikes, stakes, or chisels into stone,
brick, or earth. Its power comes from the weight of its solid steel head.
Lightweight sledgehammers are used with a special kind of chisel to cut bricks or to clean
out the mortar between bricks; larger sledgehammers are used primarily for demolition.
If the hammer has a wooden handle, protect it from extreme dampness and drying. Too much
dampness can cause the wood to swell and eventually crack; too much dryness can cause
shrinkage, and loosen the head.
If the head on a wooden handle becomes loose, try driving additional wedges into the top.
If that doesn't work, or if the handle shrinks, cracks, or breaks, replace the handle.
Using a Sledgehammer
Using a sledgehammer the wrong way will quickly tire you out and could lead to injury.
The power of a sledge comes from getting the head in motion. Save your back and make it
easy by bending your knees and bringing the weight close to your body to lift it.
Straighten your knees a little at the top of the swing. Then let the hammer fall of its
own weight. Check the hammer head often for looseness.
Purchasing
A sledgehammer's wood or fiberglass handle can be as short as 10 inches or as long as 36
inches. Head weights range from 2 to 20 pounds. Choose a hammer with a forged head. Avoid
heads of cast steel; these break more easily and can send dangerous metal chips flying.
Select a tool that feels right for your strength and swing.
Other Names
Maul
Caution
- When using a sledgehammer, wear heavy-duty work gloves.
- Never use a hammer with a chipped head.
- Replace broken handles.
- Always wear safety glasses or goggles when using a sledgehammer.
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Brought to you by Book of Skills and Tools and New Complete Do-It-Yourself Manual
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