A claw hammer is a type of hand tool commonly used in woodworking. It can drive nails into various materials, as well as remove them from surfaces. Claw hammers are one of the most recognizable objects in the tool box and they are also important in construction as well as household repairs.

Claw hammers come in various sizes and weight, with the most common listed at around 16 ounces.

Parts of a Claw Hammer

Claw hammers consist of a weighted metal head attached to a handle. These are the parts of a hammer:

• Hammer Face: This part of the hammer’s head is used to strike the head of a nail to push it into an object or part of a structure. 

• Claw: The claw is the curved, fork-like end of the hammer face’s opposite end. Woodworkers and carpenters use this part to grip and pull nails out of wood (or other materials).

• Handle: Usually made of wood, fiberglass, or other durable materials, the handle provides a comfortable grip for the user. Most importantly, the handle helps absorb some shock from the strikes.

Different Types of Hammers

The hammer is a versatile hand tool used for driving nails, shaping metals, and other tasks that require striking or pounding. They also come in various sizes, shapes, and purposes. Here are some common types of hammers:

• Claw Hammer: The most common type of hammer. The claw hammer is useful in woodworking and other general purposes.
• Ball Peen Hammer: A ball peen hammer has a rounded head on one side and a flat face on the other. This type is good for shaping metal, as well as striking punches and chisels.
• Cross Peen Hammer: A cross peen hammer is similar to a ball peen, but with a wedge-shaped cross peen on one side. Blacksmiths often use this for forging and shaping metal.
• Sledgehammer: A sledgehammer is a large and heavy hammer equipped with a long handle. It is primarily for tasks such as demolition, breaking concrete and driving large stakes.
• Dead Blow Hammer: Often used in automotive and machinery work, this variant has a hollow head filled with sand or shot. It minimizes rebound to deliver a more controlled and consistent impact. 
• Tack Hammer: A tack hammer is a smaller hammer with a magnetic or notched face, designed specifically for driving small nails or tacks into delicate materials.

Handling Safety

Here are some safety tips for a safer woodworking experience:

• Choose the right hammer for the job
• Wear eye protection such as safety goggles
• Wear gloves if needed
• Use a sturdy work surface
• Grip the hammer firmly without straining your wrist
• Maintain proper stance and posture
• When striking, use your non-dominant hand to put the nail in place, and use the dominant hand to hit the head
• Control your strikes and efficiently aim for the right spot.
• Remember: practice makes perfect
• When using the claw hammer to remove a nail, position it correctly underneath the nail head. Apply leverage to pull the nail out