How to Use a Hammer Safely
Don't damage the workpiece - or yourself - when using a hammer. Play it safe and follow these simple instructions. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Ball-peen Hammers
- Curved Claw Hammers
- Drywall Hammers
- Straight Claw Hammers
- Tack Hammers
Instructions
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Use the right hammer for the job.
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Grip the hammer by the handle firmly.
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Keep your wrist straight and use your whole forearm to lift and drop the tool.
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Let the hammer do most of the work, using its weight to drive the nail, rather than pounding on it with your full force.
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Angle nails against the grain for better holding power and stagger them to avoid splitting the wood.
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Protect finished wood surfaces by placing a piece of pegboard over the nail before hammering. Then use a nail set to drive the nail even with the work surface.
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Tips & Warnings
When nailing hardwoods, lubricate a nail with beeswax for easier driving. To avoid splitting, use a finishing nail in a drill to form a pilot hole.
Get better leverage and protect the wood when pulling nails with a claw by placing a scrap block of wood under the claw.
Always wear eye protection when using a hammer. Consider earplugs, as well, if you are doing a lot of hammering.
