How to Install a Wooden Handle on a Claw Hammer

Claw hammers are the most common general-purpose hammers used today. Wood handles are quite common on claw hammers, and over time they can get worn out and break. But replacement handles are readily available at most hardware stores.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Power drill
• 1/4-inch twist point metal boring drill bit
• Chisel
• Replacement wood handle with wedges
• Sandpaper
• Mallet or small hammer

1. Drill out the remaining wood from the hammer head. This is best done by drilling two holes, one on each side of the metal wedge embedded in the end of the handle. Don't let the drill bit come in contact with the metal hammer head.

2. Use the chisel to remove the remaining wood from hammer head.

3. Insert the new handle into the hammer head. If the handle doesn't fit smoothly, sand around the end of the handle until it fits properly.

4. Insert your chisel into the slot at the end of the handle. Tap the chisel a few times with a hammer to open up the slot.

5. Insert the wooden wedge that was supplied with the handle into the slot and slowly tap the wedge into place. Once the wedge is firmly seated, break off any remaining wood protruding from the handle. Sand down the rough edges left over from breaking the wedge.

6. Place the supplied metal wedge perpendicular to the wood wedge and hammer it in. Once this is complete, your hammer should be ready for use.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring the hammer head with you when you go to the hardware store. That way, you can ensure that you get the best fit for your hammer.
• Use care when striking one hammer with another. Doing so can potentially result in small shards of metal breaking off of the hammer heads. Wear safety glasses whenever using a hammer.

References

• Wood Handle Replacement for Striking Tools