Difference Between a Rock Hammer & Mason's Hammer

A tool of rockhounding

A mason's hammer is commonly used as a rock hammer but not all mason's hammers are suitable as rock hammers. Mason's hammers are typically used by craftsman as both a hammer and as a trimmer. Rock hammers are similar but used by geologists and rock collectors to pry up and break up rocks.

Hammer Heads

Mason's hammers have a flat face striking head on one side and a flat chisel blade opposite the striking side; they are made from tempered steel.

Rock hammers also have a flat face striking head but can have either a flat chisel blade or a pick opposite the striking side. Rock hammer heads are also made from tempered steel.

Necks

Mason's hammers have tempered steel necks or wooden necks attached to the head, or the head and neck are made from a single piece of tempered steel.

Rock hammers are made from one piece of tempered steel since an attached tempered steel or wooden neck might break during use.

Handles

Mason's hammers have different handles depending on personal preference: wooden, fiberglass or rubber-wrapped tempered steel.

Rock hammers always have rubber handles wrapped around the tempered steel neck; this helps to absorb impact and provides a sturdy grip.

References

• Masonry for Life: Masonry Tools
• Amateur Geologist: Rock Hammers