Hammers

Hammers are fundamental hand tools in every professional's tool bag. Simple yet effective, their uses range from shaping metal and driving fastenings to heavy-duty demolition. Their straightforward design and adaptability have led to a variety of specialised forms, including claw hammers, ball pein hammers, lump hammers, and heavy-duty sledge hammers. Each type is crafted for specific tasks across construction, metalworking, demolition, and maintenance.

Types of Hammers

Ball Pein Hammer

A versatile hand tool, the small ball pein hammer is strong enough to shape sheet metal yet compact enough for any toolbox. Models often feature forged, heat-treated heads for durability and are designed with excellent weight distribution to reduce fatigue. A variety of handle materials are available to provide comfort and strength.

Claw Hammer

Commonly associated with woodworking, the claw hammer is a multi-purpose tool with a two-part head. One side is a flat face for driving nails, while the other is a curved, forked claw for extracting them or for prying. These hammers are available in a range of weights, sizes, and materials, with options for metal, wood, or rubber grips.

Lump Hammer

Also known as a club hammer or mini sledgehammer, the lump hammer features a short handle and a robust, often square-shaped, steel head suited for light demolition and driving large objects like stakes or chisels in Malaysia. These versatile hammers are prized for their balance of power and manoeuvrability. Typically categorised by weight, they feature handles made from wood, fibreglass, or steel, often with rubberised grips for improved shock absorption. While the heads are usually made of steel, specialist non-sparking versions are also available.

Sledgehammers

The sledge hammer is a heavy-duty tool with a large, flat metal head mounted on long handles. Designed to deliver substantial force, they are used in demolition, breaking concrete, driving stakes, and other tasks demanding brute strength. The design relies on the user's strength to deliver powerful, accurate blows, and a variety of head materials are available. Due to the nature of this work, the use of appropriate PPE, such as safety goggles and gloves, is essential.

How to Buy the Right Hammer Online for Your Project

When you purchase a hammer online, selecting the correct hammer is crucial for safety, efficiency, and achieving the best results. The right tool will feel balanced and provide the appropriate force for the job. To make the best choice, consider these key factors.

• Hammer Type and Task: Match the type of hammer to your intended job. A claw hammer is ideal for general woodworking and nail pulling, a ball pein hammer for metalworking, and a sledgehammer or lump hammer for demolition and heavy-duty tasks.
• Weight and Balance: Select a weight that offers enough power for the task without causing fatigue. A heavier hammer provides more force but is harder to control, while a lighter hammer offers precision but less impact.
• Handle Material and Grip: The handle material affects both durability and comfort. Wood is traditional and absorbs vibration well, fibreglass is strong and weather-resistant, and steel offers maximum durability. Look for an ergonomic shape and a comfortable, non-slip grip to ensure control and reduce shock.
• Hammer Head Design: Consider the specifics of the head. For example, a milled or 'waffle' face on a claw hammer grips nails better but can mar surfaces, while a smooth face is for finish work. For metalwork, the shape of the pein is critical.

Hammer Safety Tips and Best Practices

Before you buy a new hammer online, understanding how to use it safely is paramount to preventing accidents and injuries. Adhering to these best practices will ensure you can work both effectively and safely.

• Inspect Your Tool: Before each use, check the hammer for any signs of damage. Ensure the head is firmly attached to the handle and look for cracks or chips that could send fragments flying.
• Maintain a Firm Grip and Stance: Always hold the hammer with a firm, comfortable grip near the end of the handle to maximise leverage. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart to maintain a stable stance while striking.
• Wear Appropriate PPE: Always wear safety goggles or glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris. For heavy-duty work, consider wearing gloves to prevent blisters and hearing protection when using sledgehammers.
• Use a Controlled Swing: Focus on the target and use a controlled, accurate swing, letting the weight of the hammer do most of the work. Avoid glancing blows, which can damage the work surface or cause the hammer to rebound unexpectedly.
• Ensure a Safe Workspace: Keep your work area clean, well-lit, and free of trip hazards. Avoid distractions and always be aware of your surroundings, especially other people in the vicinity.
• Protect Your Hands: When starting a nail, use a nail holder or a pair of pliers to hold it in place. This simple practice keeps your fingers at a safe distance from the hammer's striking face.
• Never Strike Hardened Steel: Never strike one hammer face with another or hit any other hardened steel surface. Hammer faces are brittle and can shatter, sending sharp metal shards flying with dangerous force.

Maintenance and Care for Your Hammer

Proper maintenance not only extends the life of your hammer after you purchase it online, but is also a critical part of ensuring it remains safe to use. Follow these simple care tips to keep your hammers in optimal condition.

• Regular Inspection: Check that the head is securely fitted to the handle and tighten any wedges if necessary. Look for cracks in wooden handles or signs of splintering in fibreglass.
• Clean After Each Use: After using your hammer, wipe it down with a clean, dry cloth to remove dirt, grease, and moisture. This simple step prevents the build-up of corrosive substances and keeps the grip and striking face in good condition.
• Proper Storage and Rust Prevention: Store your hammer in a dry environment like a toolbox or on a tool rack. To prevent rust on steel heads, apply a light coat of machine oil from time to time. If any surface rust does appear, it can be removed with fine-grit sandpaper.

Industrial Applications of Hammers in Malaysia

Hammers, both big and small, are a cornerstone of manual work across Malaysia's industrial landscape. From major infrastructure projects to specialised manufacturing, these essential tools are used in a wide range of applications.

• Construction and Demolition: In Malaysia's building sector, claw hammers are used for framing and renovation, while lump and sledgehammers are essential for demolition and structural alteration work.
• Infrastructure and Civil Works: Sledgehammers are vital in road construction and trenching for breaking up concrete, driving stakes, and compacting earth and other materials.
• Metalworking and Fabrication: Ball pein hammers are the standard tool in metal fabrication workshops for shaping, riveting, and texturing sheet metal.
• Maintenance and Assembly: Across all industries, various hammers are used in daily maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) for assembling components, seating bearings, and general repair tasks.

How to Purchase Hammers Online from RS Malaysia?

Find the right hammer for any task at RS Malaysia, your trusted supplier for professional hand tools at competitive prices. We offer a comprehensive selection of small ball pein hammers, claw hammers, and sledge hammers from leading manufacturers, including BETA, Facom, and SAM. Explore our full online catalogue to find the hammers, multimeters, and hand crimp tools you need on sale.

Ordering your tools from RS is a simple and secure process. Simply add your chosen items to the basket and proceed to our easy-to-use online checkout to complete your purchase. We support a range of payment methods to suit your requirements. For all details on shipping, delivery timeframes, and service coverage within Malaysia, please refer to our Delivery Information page.