Angela Parsons
15 min readApr 12, 2024

Get ready to elevate your blacksmithing skills with our roundup of the top Ball Peen Hammers. In this article, we’ll explore the versatile world of ball peen hammers, their various applications, and help you find the perfect tool for your next project. Whether you’re a seasoned metalworker or just starting out, our collection of high-quality ball peen hammers will leave you with a newfound appreciation for these essential tools.

The Top 10 Best Ball Peen Hammers

  1. 32 oz. Icon Ball Peen Dead Blow Hammer — Experience precision and control with the Icon 32 oz. Ball Peen Dead Blow Hammer, an indispensable tool for automotive and metalworking professionals alike.
  2. Durable Ball Peen Hammer for Jewelry Making and Repair — The PMC Supplies LLC 4 oz Supreme Ballpein Ball Peen Metal Forming Jewelry Making Repair Hammer Tool is an essential addition to any workbench, providing well-balanced precision and durability for various metalworking tasks.
  3. C&T Publishing 4-Piece Ball Peen Hammer Set — Experience superior hammer durability and ergonomics with the C&T Publishing 4-Piece Fiberglass Handle Hammer Set, perfect for a wide range of metalworking tasks.
  4. Real Steel Genuine Hickory Wood Handle Ball Pein Hammer with Forged Steel Head (16 Ounces) — Experience outstanding metal shaping and peening with the Real Steel 16 oz. Hickory Ball Peen Hammer, featuring heat-treated carbon steel, a well-balanced hickory handle, and a non-slip laser-etched texture for secure handling.
  5. Sturdy Ball Peen Hammer with Fiberglass Handle — Experience unparalleled durability and balance with the Carlyle HFBP24 Ball Peen Hammer, featuring a hardened steel head and an epoxied fiberglass handle that reduces shock and fatigue.
  6. Summit Racing Ball Peen Hammers: Heavy Duty, Unbeatable Strength for Metalwork — Summit Racing ball peen hammers offer unbeatable strength, durability, and versatility for skilled professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike, perfect for metalwork fabrication projects.
  7. Drop Forged 32oz Steel Ball Peen Hammer with Round Head — The GreatNeck Hickory Ball Peen Hammer (32 Oz.) offers ultimate strength, durability, and versatility for metalworking, featuring a drop forged steel head, clear coat protection, and a sturdy hickory handle for precision and comfort.
  8. Premium Ball Peen Hammer Set for Variety of Metalworking Tasks — Experience unparalleled strength and versatility with the C&T Publishing 5-Piece Ball Peen Hammer Set, featuring forged carbon steel and ergonomic handles for a firm, non-slip grip.
  9. Snap On Williams 12 oz Ball Pein Hammer with Safety Ring — Ideal for Height Work — Gripping comfort and safety make Snap On Williams’ 12-ounce Ball Pein Hammer with Safety Ring the ideal choice for at-height metalwork projects.
  10. TEKTON 4-Piece Dead Blow Hammer Set with Smooth and Ball Peen Heads — Experience exceptional control and accuracy with the Tekton Deadblow Hammer Set, featuring steel shot-filled heads, durable polyurethane outer jackets, and hardened 4140 Chromium-Molybdenum steel striking faces, perfect for any metalworking task.

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Reviews

32 oz. Icon Ball Peen Dead Blow Hammer

32 oz. Icon Ball Peen Dead Blow Hammer | Image

The Icon 32 oz. Ball Peen Dead Blow Hammer is a versatile tool designed for a wide range of professional applications including chassis and suspension work, brake drum and rotor removal, and general metalworking. With shot-filled head technology, it offers reduced rebound and excellent control.

A wide flared handle with a soft grip provides added security and comfort for the user. However, this hammer can be heavier to use for lighter tasks, and some users may find the warranty conditions too restrictive, such as not being applicable in some countries. Overall, it’s a great value for money, high-quality hammer with a strong reputation, easy to use, and an ideal tool for most metalworking applications.

Durable Ball Peen Hammer for Jewelry Making and Repair

Durable Ball Peen Hammer for Jewelry Making and Repair | Image

I recently put the PMC Supplies LLC 4 oz Supreme Ballpein Hammer to the test in my jewelry-making project, and let me tell you, it was quite the experience. Measuring at 9–3/4" in length and weighing a substantial 2 oz, this well-balanced tool is made of drop-forged steel, making it sturdy and reliable.

Using this hammer was a game-changer for me, as I found it to be an essential addition to my workbench. The precision-constructed and highly-polished head was securely mounted onto a high-quality hardwood handle, making it both comfortable to grip and efficient in use.

However, one downside I noticed was the hammer’s 4 oz weight, which made it a bit more challenging for me to handle for longer periods. Nevertheless, it’s still an excellent tool for anyone looking to get into jewelry making or repair work.

Overall, this Supreme Ballpein Hammer is a “must-have” for every workbench, and I wholeheartedly recommend it for anyone looking for a versatile and reliable tool in their jewelry-making or repair projects.

C&T Publishing 4-Piece Ball Peen Hammer Set

C&T Publishing 4-Piece Ball Peen Hammer Set | Image

These hammers from C&T Publishing really stood out to me for a number of reasons. Firstly, the forged carbon steel construction offers a surprising level of strength and durability. The hammer head’s vibration-absorbing properties come in handy, especially when working with different types of materials.

The fiberglass handle is lightweight and comfortable, and the soft grip ensures you have a firm, non-slip hold. A small note — I’d recommend them for more specialized tasks like working with pein rivets or unhardened metals. However, a downside is their limited use, with the smaller hammers only for lighter tasks and the larger ones for heavy-duty ones.

The mirror polish on the head makes it easy to clean, and the vivid color of the handle makes spotting it in my toolbox quick and simple. A versatile, well-made set for specific metalworking requirements.

Real Steel Genuine Hickory Wood Handle Ball Pein Hammer with Forged Steel Head (16 Ounces)

Real Steel Genuine Hickory Wood Handle Ball Pein Hammer with Forged Steel Head (16 Ounces) | Image

Using the Real Steel 0404 ball pein hammer made me feel like a true blacksmith. The curved claw hammer has a hickory handle that’s not only comfy but also quite sturdy. It’s laser-etched texture ensures a secure grip without any slippage.

The rounded ball end helped me achieve a perfect shape for the metal piece I was working on. With its forged steel head and carbon steel core, I never had to worry about it breaking down after a couple of uses. Overall, I’d say its durability makes it a decent choice for metalworkers, carpenters, and even DIY enthusiasts.

Sturdy Ball Peen Hammer with Fiberglass Handle

Sturdy Ball Peen Hammer with Fiberglass Handle | Image

For some time now, I’ve been using the Ball Pein Hammer from Carlyle Tools as my go-to tool in my professional work space. The hardened steel head has proven to be incredibly durable, ensuring I can depend on it for years to come. I’ve found that the rounded ball peen end allows for a smooth, efficient strike on a wide range of surfaces, whether I’m striking a bolt or refining an already rounded surface.

The balance of the tool, provided by the permanent epoxied fiberglass handle, does wonders in reducing shock and fatigue. Overall, I’d highly recommend this hammer for its strength, balance, and reliability.

Summit Racing Ball Peen Hammers: Heavy Duty, Unbeatable Strength for Metalwork

Summit Racing Ball Peen Hammers: Heavy Duty, Unbeatable Strength for Metalwork | Image

Recently, I had the chance to try out these Summit Racing ball peen hammers. As someone who enjoys tinkering around the house and occasionally taking on small metalworking projects, I was excited to see how these tools would hold up.

The first thing that caught my eye was the build quality. These hammers are made with a durable polyurethane material, ensuring they’ll last through even the toughest tasks. The contoured grip provides a comfortable touch, allowing for a balanced swing and maximum striking power.

What really stood out, however, were the different hammer head options. The rounded and flat dead blow sides come in handy for various tasks, providing a versatile tool that’s perfect for my DIY needs. The 47 oz weight is just right, offering enough force without being too cumbersome.

One potential drawback I noticed was the lack of a variety of colors to choose from. Still, it’s a minor issue in the grand scheme of things.

Overall, I found these Summit Racing ball peen hammers to be a reliable and effective tool for my metalworking projects. I highly recommend them to any skilled tradesman or DIY enthusiast looking to up their game.

Drop Forged 32oz Steel Ball Peen Hammer with Round Head

Drop Forged 32oz Steel Ball Peen Hammer with Round Head | Image

I recently picked up the GreatNeck Hickory Ball Peen Hammer, and I must say I’m quite impressed with its performance! This 32oz hammer is perfect for getting the job done, whether it’s for riveting, shaping, or bending metal. Its strength and durability make it a reliable tool for any project.

One thing that stood out to me is the drop forged steel head, which adds to the overall strength and durability of the hammer. The clear coat head also helps protect it against rust, keeping it looking brand new even after lots of use. However, there was a small issue I encountered with the handle breaking after a few hits, but I found out that the manufacturer offers a replacement for free, which made me very happy.

Overall, I’m quite satisfied with the GreatNeck Hickory Ball Peen Hammer and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality, affordable hammer.

Premium Ball Peen Hammer Set for Variety of Metalworking Tasks

Premium Ball Peen Hammer Set for Variety of Metalworking Tasks | Image

The C&T Publishing 5-Piece Ball Peen Hammer Set was a game-changer in my daily life. I was a craftsman working with various metals, and this set certainly made my work easier than before. Crafted with 45# forged carbon steel, each hammer boasted a mirror polish that not only added to its strength but also helped it last for ages without succumbing to rust and corrosion.

The soft grip, ergonomic handle of each hammer made working with them a pleasure. It provided a firm grip and helped in vibration absorption when striking, which was quite impressive. The mirrored hammer head was easily cleaned and the bright handle color made it easy to identify in my toolbox.

I found that the smaller hammers were great for lighter-duty metals, while the larger ones were more suitable for heavier metals. The set had hammers of varying weights, 8, 12, 16, 24, and 32 ounces, which came in handy for different tasks. The weight distribution was effective, helping me in my work without causing too much strain.

The tool’s functionality and quality were indeed top-notch, but there was one aspect that I felt could be improved — the absence of a storage case to keep them safe and organized. Nonetheless, the set was definitely a reliable investment for anyone working with metals or in need of precision-oriented tools.

Snap On Williams 12 oz Ball Pein Hammer with Safety Ring — Ideal for Height Work

Snap On Williams 12 oz Ball Pein Hammer with Safety Ring - Ideal for Height Work | Image

Recently, I tried the Snap On Williams 12 Ounce Ball Pein Hammer with Safety Ring and it felt like a reliable tool to have around. The fiberglass handle not only looks sleek, but also feels comfortable and secure in my hand. The cushion grip is a game-changer, providing a snug fit while keeping my hands safe from any slips or mishaps that might occur while working at heights.

The hammerhead itself was quite sturdy, and I was impressed by its heat-treated structure, ensuring durability and longevity. I’ve used it for various tasks, including driving punches and chisels into metal, and it consistently made a clean, accurate cut. However, there were some instances where it seemed a bit heavier than I’d originally anticipated, so I wouldn’t recommend this for those with weaker hands or for extended work sessions.

Despite its slight weight drawback, the Snap On Williams 12 Ounce Ball Pein Hammer with Safety Ring makes a valuable addition to any toolkit, especially for anyone with the need to work at elevated heights. Its sturdy construction, ergonomically-designed handle, and secure grip make it a dependable choice for the job.

TEKTON 4-Piece Dead Blow Hammer Set with Smooth and Ball Peen Heads

TEKTON 4-Piece Dead Blow Hammer Set with Smooth and Ball Peen Heads | Image

Recently, I came across this set of 26, 36, 47, and 50 oz. Ball Peen Dead Blow Hammers (4-Piece) in my workshop. At first glance, the shot-filled head of the hammer caught my attention. Its unique design reduces post-strike rebound, making it easier for me to control the hits on my workpiece. The steel shot inside the hammer flows smoothly without any clumping, ensuring a consistent strike.

These hammers are built to last, with a thick outer jacket made from hot cast polyurethane that’s highly resistant to chipping, cracking, and tearing. The softness of the jacket also helps me avoid any damage to delicate surfaces in my workshop. The contoured handle, with its textured surface and flared base, provides me with a comfortable, nonslip grip, allowing me to focus more on my work without worrying about holding the hammer correctly.

I’ve used these hammers for various tasks, like driving punches or cold chisels, shaping sheet metal, and aligning heavy parts for assembly or welding. The smooth face is perfect for the former, while the ball peen face is great for the latter. The hammers are made from 4140 Chromium-Molybdenum steel, hardened to HRC 52, ensuring they can handle the rigors of my workshop without breaking down.

One of the best things about this set is that it’s made in the USA, which is a plus for me. The set comes at a fraction of the cost of tool truck brands, making it a great value for money. Overall, I’m very pleased with the quality of these hammers and believe they’re a worthwhile investment for any workshop.

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to choosing the right Ball Peen Hammer for your needs, understanding the crucial features and considerations can significantly impact your purchasing decision. This buyer’s guide will provide you with the essential information needed to make an informed selection.

Types of Ball Peen Hammers

There are different types of Ball Peen Hammers available in the market, including steel, brass, copper, and more. Each material offers unique characteristics in terms of weight, durability, and appearance. Steel hammers are commonly known for their hardness and resistance to wear, while brass and copper hammers are often favored for their aesthetic appeal and corrosion resistance.

Head Shape and Weight

One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a Ball Peen Hammer is the head shape and weight. The head shape can be flat, domed, or hemispherical. Flat-faced hammers are ideal for striking smooth surfaces, while domed or hemispherical heads are more suitable for working with uneven surfaces or textured materials. Weight is another essential factor, as it determines the amount of force the hammer can exert. Choose a hammer with a weight that suits your working requirements and provides maximum efficiency.

Handle Material and Comfort

The handle material of a Ball Peen Hammer plays a crucial role in determining its overall comfort and functionality. Common handle materials include wood, fiberglass, and plastic. Wood handles provide a natural and comfortable grip, while fiberglass handles offer better durability and resistance to weather conditions. Plastic handles, on the other hand, are lightweight and provide a balanced feel. When selecting a hammer, ensure that the handle design and material provide a comfortable grip and reduce the risk of hand fatigue during prolonged use.

Price Range and Value for Money

Lastly, consider the price range and the value for money when purchasing a Ball Peen Hammer. While high-end options may offer superior quality, costlier hammers may not always translate to better performance. Determine the features and specifications that are most important to you and look for hammers within your budget that provide the best quality-to-price ratio. Remember, investing in a Ball Peen Hammer that meets your specific needs will ultimately result in a more efficient and satisfying work experience.

FAQ

What is a Ball Peen Hammer?

A Ball Peen Hammer, also known as a round-faced hammer, is a type of hammer that has a flat, rounded head on one end and a pointed, flat head on the other. This unique design allows it to be used for both striking and shaping metal, making it a versatile tool for blacksmiths and other metalworkers. The flat, rounded head is typically used for striking, while the pointed, flat head is used for shaping and texturing metal surfaces.

Ball Peen Hammers come in various sizes and weights, so it’s essential to choose one that suits your specific needs and skill level. These hammers can be made from different materials, including steel, brass, and even exotic woods like padauk. The material affects the hammer’s weight, balance, and durability.

What are the benefits of using a Ball Peen Hammer?

The unique design of a Ball Peen Hammer offers several advantages over other types of hammers. Its flat, rounded head provides a broad striking surface, which is ideal for flattening, bending, and shaping metal. The pointed, flat head, on the other hand, is perfect for texturing, making patterns, and creating unique finishes on metal surfaces. This makes the Ball Peen Hammer a versatile tool that can be used for a wide range of metalworking projects.

Additionally, the ball-peen hammer offers better control and precision than other hammers. The flat, rounded head allows for more precise strikes, while the pointed, flat head makes it easier to work on intricate designs or patterns. This increased control is especially useful for beginners or those working with delicate materials.

How do I choose the right Ball Peen Hammer for my needs?

When choosing a Ball Peen Hammer, several factors should be considered, including the intended use of the hammer, the material it is made from, and the overall size and weight. For basic metalworking projects, a smaller, lighter hammer may be sufficient. However, for heavy-duty tasks, a larger, heavier hammer may be required.

Material is also an important consideration. A steel hammer may be more durable and long-lasting, but a brass hammer may be more comfortable to use for extended periods. Exotic woods can also provide a unique appearance and feel, but may be harder to maintain and replace if damaged. It’s essential to consider your specific needs and the hammer’s intended use when making your selection.

What is the difference between a Ball Peen Hammer and a Cross Peen Hammer?

The primary difference between a Ball Peen Hammer and a Cross Peen Hammer is the design of the head. A Ball Peen Hammer has a rounded, flat head for striking and a pointed, flat head for shaping, while a Cross Peen Hammer has a flat, square head for striking and a round, blunt head for shaping. This design difference affects the way the tool is used and the types of metalworking projects it can be employed for.

A Ball Peen Hammer is more versatile due to its dual-sided design, which allows it to handle both striking and shaping tasks. It is ideal for blacksmithing, jewelry making, and other metalworking projects that require precision and control. In contrast, a Cross Peen Hammer is more suitable for striking tasks, such as forging and bending metal, due to its flatter, more stable striking head. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user.

How do I maintain my Ball Peen Hammer?

Proper maintenance of a Ball Peen Hammer is essential for its longevity and performance. After each use, it’s important to clean the hammer to remove any metal shavings or debris that may have accumulated on the head. This can be done using a brush, cloth, or compressed air. If the hammer has a wooden handle, regular oiling can help protect the wood and prevent it from cracking or warping.

Periodic inspections should also be conducted to check for any signs of wear or damage, such as cracks in the head or loose rivets. If any issues are detected, the hammer should be repaired or replaced to maintain its functionality and safety. Additionally, the hammer should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.

What are some common misuses of a Ball Peen Hammer?

One common misuse of a Ball Peen Hammer is not using the correct striking technique. The flat, rounded head should be struck with a smooth, controlled motion, while the pointed, flat head should be applied with a lighter, more precise strike. Using the hammer incorrectly can lead to poor results and even damage the metalwork.

Another common misuse is trying to shape metal with the flat head. While the rounded head is ideal for shaping, the flat head is designed for striking. Using the wrong head for the task can result in inaccurate results and may even cause damage to the metalwork. Always use the appropriate head for the intended task to achieve the desired outcome.

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