Striking Tools

Safety is of the utmost importance while working on projects, whether small tasks like driving nails or heavy-duty projects. Striking tools, including hammers and chisels, have wide applications in construction, woodworking, and other everyday repair tasks. However, their improper use can lead to tool damage and even injuries. Thus, proper handling and following the safety rules while using striking tools are important.

This blog will highlight the key safety rules one should follow while using striking tools. This will allow you to handle the striking tools effectively and confidently.

What Are Striking Tools?

Striking tools are the hand-held tools that are used to hit or strike objects. Their design allows them to deliver high impact. Some common examples of striking tools are hammers, chisels, and punches. Each type of striking tool is designed for a specific task; thus, it is important to use the right one for the job to ensure safety and efficiency.

Why Should Striking Tool Safety Be Your Top Priority?

Striking tools might seem easier to use, but you can experience injuries if you mishandle the tool. Here are a few of the reasons why prioritizing safety while using striking tools is important:

• Inadequate handling of striking tools can cause injuries such as cuts, bruises, or fetal injuries.
• By properly handling the striking tool, you can complete the task more efficiently within a short time.
• Improper use of a striking tool can damage the hand tool and increase its wear and tear. 

Important Safety Rules For Handling Striking Tools

While using striking tools, you need to be careful, as improper handling of these tools can lead to accidents. Here are some of the safety rules that you need to follow when using striking tools:

Inspect Tools Before Use

Inspection of the tool before using it is of the utmost importance. Imagine you’re about to use a hammer to drive a nail into a wall for a hanging picture, and the hammer’s handle is cracked. As you swing it to drive the nail inside the wall, the handle could snap, sending the head flying across the room. This can cause fetal injuries to you or the ones present in the room. Therefore, it is essential to always inspect the cracks, worn-out edges, and loose handles. You can test the tool before using it by gently tapping it to check if the hammerhead is stable or not.

“Tip: Regularly replace the damaged tools to avoid unexpected failures and injuries while doing critical tasks.” 

Select The Right Tools For The Job

Imagine you’re assembling furniture, pounding the dowels in using a claw hammer. The hard surface of the hammer can crush the dowels and ruin your furniture. Instead of a claw hammer, the rubber mallet would be a better choice for pounding the dowels. The wrong choice of tool for doing a project can reduce your efficiency and quality of work or even ruin your project. Thus, it is important to use the right tool for the job.

For example, if you want to shape metal, then it is better to use a ball-peen hammer. And the sledgehammer is more suitable than a household hammer for driving stakes into the ground.

“Tip: Make sure to use the right tool for the job, as it increases the risk of injuries and accidents, as well as can damage the materials.”

Wear Protective Gear

While using striking tools such as chisels, make sure to wear protective gear. Imagine you’re chiseling the wood, and a small splinter gets into your eyes. Even imagining such a situation hurts, right? Without proper safety gear, such as glasses, it could result in serious injuries.

“Tip: Wearing safety gear like gloves and goggles gives you confidence by ensuring your safety, further allowing you to complete the task efficiently.”

Ensure A Firm Grip

Suppose you’re hammering nails on a slippery surface and your hand slips. This not only makes you unable to drive nails efficiently but can also injure your finger. While holding the hammer, make sure to grip it firmly at the end for maximum control and power.

“Tip: Your hands should be dry and clean, otherwise you might lose your grip.”

Work In A Safe Environment

Do not use the striking tools in a crowded workspace. Make sure there are no children and other distractions while you’re doing your work, as any distraction can lead to serious injury to you or the ones present in the workspace.

“Tip: Your workspace should have proper lighting and be neat and free from tripping hazards.”

Apply The Right Amount Of Force

There is an adequate way of using each hand tool. Make sure to apply the right amount of force to prevent material damage and injuries. For example, you’re driving a nail into the wall. Using excessive force can bend the nail or damage the wall if you miss the strike.

“Tip: While chiseling, use light and controlled strikes instead of heavy swings to prevent material damage and tool wear.”

Store Tools Properly 

Storing your tools properly is of utmost importance, as someone might get hurt if they knock it off accidentally. Sharp and heavy tools should be stored properly and out of children’s reach.

“Tip: Make sure to store your tool in the proper toolbox or rack.”

Common Mistakes To Avoid With Striking Tools

Here are some of the common mistakes that one should avoid with striking tools to ensure task efficiency and own safety:

• Never ignore small cracks or loosened parts of striking tools. Using damaged tools can lead to catastrophic failures and injuries.
• Overstriking is a common mistake made by beginners. This can cause damage to tools as well as the material.
• Never forget to wear protective equipment like gloves and goggles, as it can make you vulnerable to injuries.
• Always ensure you’re using the right tool for the job, as using a striking tool for an unintended purpose can lead to accidents.

Maintaining Striking Tools For Safety And Efficiency

Properly maintaining the striking tool is essential for ensuring their safety and enhancing their performance and efficiency. You can adopt the following ways to maintain your tools:

• Wipe off dirt and debris from the tool after every use to prevent rust and corrosion.
• Regularly check the tool to find signs of wear and tear and replace the damaged parts and tools immediately.
• Sharpen the edges of striking tools such as chisels and punches to ensure their edges remain sharp.
• Store the tools in a cool, dry, organized place to protect them and prevent accidents. 

To check out more tips for tool maintenance, read the blog, “How To Maintain Hand Tools – Tips To Boost Performance, Safety & Durability”

Conclusion: Safe Practices Lead To Better Outcomes

Adequate handling of striking tools is not only about avoiding injuries but also about precision and efficiency. It gives you the confidence to complete the task more efficiently while maintaining the safety of yourself and others present in the workspace. By adhering to the aforementioned safety rules, you can avoid common mistakes and properly handle the tool, ensuring the successful completion of the project.

Are your striking tools damaged? Want to buy new, premium-quality ones? Don’t search further! JCBL Hand Tools offers a diverse array of hand tools, like striking tools. Each product is manufactured using high-grade material for durability, performance, and longevity. Click here to check out the striking tools being offered by JCBL Hand Tools or you can visit our website to view our complete range of hand tools.

FAQs

What are the first signs of tool wear?

Chipping and cracking of tool edges and handles are the early signs of tool wear. You might experience dullness in their blades. 

How often should I inspect my striking tools?

Inspecting your tool before every use is important. If you find any signs of wear or a loosened handle, it is better to replace it, as using it makes you vulnerable to injuries.

Are gloves always necessary when using striking tools?

It is not a compulsion to use gloves while using the striking tool; however, it can enhance grip and protect your hands from injuries. You can wear gloves if they are not compromising dexterity.

Imagine working on a home renovation project and dealing with tough demolition tasks or delicate prying tasks. In such situations, it is important to have the right tools to make the disposal and prying process easier and more efficient. Whether you’re a professional or DIY enthusiast, the right tool can help you do the job more efficiently. The wrecking and prying bars are the most commonly used hand tools for levering and prying objects. But both have different areas of application. To help you choose the right one for your task, it is important to understand their differences.

Let’s delve into the key difference between the wrecking bar and the pry bar–

What Is A Wrecking Bar?

A wrecking bar is a versatile hand tool that is used for prying out objects and pulling out nails. It has a curve on one end and a claw on another with a heavy iron lever. The curbed end allows one to pry, whereas the claw end allows one to easily pull out the nails. Usually, these are made of steel and thus are suitable for heavy-duty demolition tasks. Also, these have a plastic coating for enhancing the grip in wet conditions.

Uses Of Wrecking Bar

The key uses of wrecking bars include the following:

• It is used to pull out nails from the wood.

• The chisel-shaped end of the wrecking bar can be used to pry apart wooden pieces or other materials.

• It is also used in demolition jobs as its long length provides maximum leverage and power.

• It has applications for removing molding, baseboards, flooring, etc. 

What Is A Pry Bar?

A pry bar is used for lifting or pulling two objects apart. It has a flat, angled end that acts as a lever to lift objects. Also, some of the pry bars have a straight claw with a nail slot and nail puller. 

Uses Of Pry Bar

Some of the common uses of a pry bar include:

• A pry bar is used to remove nails from wood and walls.

• It is suitable for separating two layers of walls.

• It can be used to remove moldings, trims, tiles, and moldings.

• These are also suitable for opening stuck windows and jammed car doors. 

Wrecking Bar Vs Pry Bar: Key Difference

Still confused about the difference between a wrecking bar and a pry bar. Don’t worry! Here are the key differences between a wrecking bar and a pry bar –

Design And Structure

The key difference between a wrecking bar and a pry bar is their design and structure. The wrecking bar is often larger, heavier, and longer in comparison to the pry bar. Its length ranges from 18 to 36 inches or more than this. In general, it is made using high-strength steel with a curved or angled end to enhance leverage. Both of its ends have claw shapes, making them suitable for digging under materials and providing leverage for prying. 

The prying bar, on the other hand, is smaller and lightweight. Generally, its length ranges between 7 to 24 inches. It has a slender and straight design. At one end, there is a chisel-like end, whereas the other side contains a slightly curved or angled end to allow one to effectively lift, separate, and pry.

Leverage And Strength

A wrecking bar offers more leverage and strength due to its length and weight, thus being suitable for heavy-duty tasks that need maximum force. Further, it is suitable for the dismantling of heavy materials. 

Meanwhile, the compact and lightweight feature of the pry bar provides less leverage in comparison to the wrecking bar. However, this makes it suitable for delicate tasks where precision and control are required. Further, the pry bar is suitable for working in tight spaces where you require precision rather than brute force.

Purpose And Usage

Their purpose and usage intersect with one another, as both can be used for pulling out nails, dismantling, demolition, tearing, and prying. However, their usage depends upon environmental conditions and the type of material. The wrecking bar is considered best for heavy-duty demolition tasks like removing nails, tearing walls, and breaking structures. 

On the other hand, the pry bar is best suited for light-duty tasks like removing nails, prying open small spaces, and adjusting fittings. The thinner and compact design of the pry bar provides an advantage for tasks that require precision, like loosening small boards, tiles, or moldings without causing extensive damage. 

Weight And Portability

Due to the heavy weight and large size of the wrecking bar, it is less portable. Also, it is quite tiring to use it in smaller spaces and for longer periods, but it is efficient for demolition tasks. Meanwhile, the pry bar is lightweight, making it more portable and easier to carry around. Also, its small size and light weight make it suitable for using it in small spaces and for detailed tasks. 

How To Choose The Right One For Your Needs?

While selecting the right one for your needs, it is important to consider the following factors:

Task Type

The choice of tool depends on the type of task you’re involved in. If your task involves heavy-duty demolition or working with large and hard materials, the wrecking bar is the best choice. But if your task is delicate and involves prying in tight spaces, the pry bar is the perfect option as it is small and lightweight. 

Size And Space Constraints

If you’re working in the open space and require a tool with maximum leverage, then a wrecking tool is best suited. Meanwhile, the pry bar is the best option if you’re working in confined spaces. The small size and light weight of the pry bar allow one to make precise movements in tight areas. 

Leverage And Force Requirements

If you need a significant amount of force to break or tear the material apart, go for a wrecking bar, as it is made for heavy-duty tasks such as demolition work and lifting heavy objects. Meanwhile, for the tasks that need less force or require fine work, like separating parts without damaging the materials. 

By considering the above factors, you can select the right tool for your job and complete it more efficiently. 

Conclusion

Whether you’re a professional or just a DIY enthusiast, having the right tool makes a big difference. Both the wrecking bar and the pry bar have similar application areas like pulling out nails, prying, and separating objects, but both have different expertise as they are built differently. One is suitable for heavy-duty tasks and can provide you with leverage and force, whereas the other offers precision and control in delicate tasks. By choosing the right one for your needs, you can complete your task flawlessly. 

Are you looking for a hand tool for demolition work or pulling out nails? Don’t look further. JCBL Hand Tools manufactures premium quality wrecking tools and prying tools to fulfill your needs. Visit our website to check out the full product range. 

FAQs

Is the wrecking bar a crowbar?

No, a wrecking bar is not a crowbar, but the terms can be interchangeably used. The wrecking bar is made with flat metal, whereas the crowbar is made with hexagonal cross-section metal.

Are the wrecking bar and pry bar the same?

The wrecking bar and pry bar are not the same; however, both are used for prying and levering on different types of objects and materials. They vary in terms of design, weight, and size. 

From metalworking to woodworking and home improvement, chisels are one of the important tools across many industries. Professionals and DIY enthusiasts use them due to their precision, adaptability, and durability. Chisels are of different types based on their uses and functions in various industries. Understanding their types is essential for selecting the right one for your task and completing your job effortlessly. 

In this blog, we will explore the concept of chisels, their uses, importance, and different types of chisels to help you choose the right one for your needs.

What Are Chisels?

Chisels are hand tools that allow individuals to carve, shape, or cut hard materials like stone, wood, or metal. They have sharp-edged blades and a handle to apply controlled force either with a mallet or hand. Furthermore, the sharp edge of the chisel provides precise cutting. Also, the chisels come in different shapes and sizes to meet the needs of different tasks. 

Importance Of Chisels In Different Industries

From sculpting intricate wood designs to breaking through tough masonry, chisels play an important role in craftsmanship. Chisels might seem simple but they are indispensable in different industries due to their versatility. Here are a few of their popular application areas-

Woodworking 

Chisels have applications in the field of woodworking to shave down surfaces, carve out joints, and add decorative details to wooden pieces. Using different chisels like paring and bench chisels, the professionals craft intricate wood art and build fine furniture. 

Metal Working

Chisels also have applications in metalworking for trimming, shaping, and engraving metal objects. Their primary use involves cutting and shaping metals where heat cannot be applied in metalworking. Also, the tasks requiring intricate detailing involve the use of chisels as they offer precision and control. 

Masonry And Stonework

These have applications in masonry and stoneworking to shape bricks, stones, and concrete. Chisels including mason and brick bolster have been used for handling tough materials and, thus are efficient for construction and renovation projects.

DIY And Home Improvement

These also have applications in home improvement and DIY enthusiasts. It is useful when you’re fixing a cabinet or installing a door frame to make it smoother and more efficient. 

Types Of Chisels

There are a variety of chisels available in the market. Each of the chisels is made using a specific material for a specific task.  The most common types of chisels include:

Mortise Chisel

Mortise chisel is a heavy-duty chisel that has a stout blade and thick handle. It can withstand the pounding force of a mallet.  Also, it has uses in carpentry for woodworking and furniture making. Craftsmen use it to cut deep and rectangular holes in the wood and create strong joints in the door frames and cabinets. 

Mason Chisel

A mason chisel is used to cut and shape stone, concrete, and bricks. They are also called masonry chisels. Such types of chisel have a strong and wider blade that can withstand the force of a hammer or a mallet. The construction and demolition work involves the use of a mason chisel to split and shape stones and bricks or even break concrete and stone walls.  

Brick Bolster Chisel

As the name of the brick bolster chisel suggests, it is designed to cut and shape the bricks. These are also cutting and shaping the stones into specific shapes. They have a wide blade with a straight and sharp edge that allows for clean and even cuts in the bricks and stones. Also, these are durable enough to withstand the hammer strikes while ensuring a controlled split. 

Dovetail Chisel

Dovetail chisels have narrow and thin blades with beveled edges. This allows individuals to cut the dovetail joints. With the beveled edges of the chisel, one can reach tight corners and make angled cuts for dovetail joinery. Such type of chisel has applications in fine woodworking like cabinetry and furniture making in which precise cutting of dovetail joints is involved. 

Plugging Chisel

It is a narrow and flat chisel that is used to remove older mortar between the bricks without causing any damage to the surrounding brickwork. It has a long and slim blade with allows one to access the tight spaces between the brick joints. These are used in the brickwork, masonry, and restoration work for removing old deteriorated mortar and applying fresh mortar. 

Skew Chisel

The skew chisel has a long and flat blade with an angled or skewed edge. Its blade is sharpened at an angle that allows it to make fine and angled cuts to produce smooth and precise finishes. Further, these are the specialized tools that are commonly used in woodturning and fine detailing. The skew angle of the chisel makes it easier to slice through wood without scraping it.  

Other than these, there are several other types of chisels such as carving chisel, Japanese chisel,  diamond point chisel, bench chisel, paring chisel, etc. Each of them is designed for a specific task for a specific industry. For example, cold chisels are suitable for metalworking for cutting and shaping softer materials like brass, aluminum, and steel. 

Material Used For Chisel Construction

The material is important in hand tools as it ensures their durability and sharpness. The most common materials used in chisel construction include:

Carbon Steel

Carbon steel is a popular material when it comes to making chisels due to its ability to hold sharp edges. Chisels made with carbon steel have high carbon content which gives it excellent hardness and allows it to maintain sharp edges for a longer period.  They are easy to sharp and durable but they are prone to rust and brittleness. 

Alloy Steel

Alloy steel contains alloying elements other than carbon steel including chromium, vanadium, tungsten, etc. to enhance steel properties. They are more durable and tough than carbon steel and can withstand high-impact force without deforming. Unlike carbon steel, they are resistant to rust and heat but they are harder to sharpen.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel contains iron, chromium, and other alloys. These are known for their corrosion resistance, durability, and low maintenance. However, these are not as durable as carbon steel and alloy steel and are difficult to sharpen. Due to its rust-resistant properties, these are suitable in masonry chisels and cold chisels where corrosion is a concern. 

How To Choose The Right Chisel For Your Need

Due to the availability of various types of chisels, you might get confused about which one is right for you. The selection of a chisel depends upon the area of industry and the type of task. Here is a quick guide to help you select the right chisel for your needs-

• Task Type: For wood material, a bench chisel is a suitable option, whereas a mason chisel is feasible for masonry work. If your task involves cutting metals then cape, flat, cold, or web chisels are the right tool for you. 
• Precision Requirement: If your task involves intricate work and precision is a concern, then paring or carving chisels are a good choice. 
• Material quality: If you’re looking for a chisel with durability and sharpness then select a chisel of high-end materials like carbon steel and alloy steel
• Budget: High-end chisels are long-term investments. You can purchase them if it comes within your budget as it is going to last longer. But, if you are low in budget then you can go for standard quality chisels.

Conclusion

In conclusion, chisels are powerful tools that come in a variety of shapes and sizes for specific types of tasks in woodworking, metalworking, and masonry. To complete your job neatly and effortlessly, understanding the different types of chisels and their uses is important. This can help you select the right tool for your job and ensure accuracy, efficiency, and durability in the work. 

Want to purchase high-quality chisels and other hand tools for your needs? You don’t have to search further. JCBL Hand Tools offers a wide array of hand tools including chisels, spanners, pliers, etc. to meet the needs of different industries. Our products are made with high-quality CRV steel and carbon steel to offer durability, longevity, and performance. Visit our website to check out the complete product range of JCBL Hand Tools. 

FAQs

What is the use of chisel?

A chisel is a hand-held tool that allows one to cut, carve, and shape hard materials such as wood, metal, and stone. 

Which type of chisel is best for beginners?

Bench chisel is a great tool for beginner craftsmen as it is suitable for general-purpose tasks such as carving and shaping. If you are looking for a tool for masonry tasks then a brick bolster chisel is good as it is easy to handle and suitable for basic cuts. 

Are you trying to cut roots or dig a trench, but don’t know which striking tool to use? No need to worry. In this blog, I will be clearing up your confusion by discussing different types of striking tools and their uses. First, let’s learn, What striking tools are. The primary purpose of the striking tool is to hit or strike the objects. They have different uses based on their shape and size. 

Different types of striking tools

There is a variety of range of striking tools such as hammers, mallets, axes, etc. Some other striking tools are sledgehammers, clawhammers, rubber mallets, dead blow hammers, splitting maul, pick axes and mattocks, bar diggers, and a pry bar. Let’s learn about different types of striking tools and their uses in detail-

Sledgehammer

A sledgehammer is a large heavy hammer. It has a long handle with a large and heavy head, further allows to generate a significant amount of force with each swing. Thus, these are suitable for heavy-duty demolition activities such as the breaking of stones and heavy materials. Furthermore, these hammers come in different sizes for more precision tasks. 

Uses

• Used in construction and demolition work.
• Breaking and crushing materials.
• Demolishing walls, structures, and large bodies.

Clawhammer

From professional work to household DIYs, clawhammers are widely used striking tools. It is a versatile tool that has a dual head. It contains a head to drive nails into materials on one side and a claw to pull out nails. Its handle comprises different materials like wood, metal, or fiberglass thus providing a sturdy grip. 

Uses

• Used in DIY tasks, home repairs, carpentry, and construction work.
• Driving nails into the materials.
• Removing nails out of the materials.
• Suitable for small demolition tasks. 

Rubber Mallet

A rubber mallet is a lightweight striking tool. Unlike other hammers, its head is made of rubber. When force is applied using a rubber mallet, the force gets evenly distributed across the material. So, it does not deform the shape of the object. It is also a good choice for tasks where delicate materials are involved. 

Uses

• Used in leatherworking, tile installation, metalworking, etc.
• Good choice for tasks where adjustments need to be made without leaving any mark.
• Assembling furniture and wood joint fitting.

Dead Blow hammer

Just like a rubber mallet, a dead blow hammer is also used to strike the object without leaving any marks or damage. But, it has a different construction, as well as the impact from a rubber mallet. Its head is made of steel filled with steel shot, sand, or other dense materials, further allowing one to apply controlled force while minimizing the rebound and vibration.  

Uses

• Has applications in metalworking, woodworking, and assembling pieces.
• To tighten or loosen parts of automotive without damaging the material.
• Good choice for tasks where precision and controlled force are required.

Splitting Maul

A splitting maul is a heavy striking tool. It has the characteristics of both an axe and a sledgehammer. Its head looks like an axe on one side and a sled on the other side. sledge-axes, blockbusters, and block splitters are other names for splitting maul. The key purpose of splitting maul is to split the wood. This does cut the wood like an axe but splits or breaks the wood apart.

Uses

• To split wooden logs.
• Chopping the timber.
• Used by forestry workers, as well as homeowners.

Bar diggers

A bar digger is a hand tool used for breaking hard materials like clay, frozen ground, and concrete. There are different types of bar diggers such as roughneck telegraph and true temper all steel digging and tampering bar. The roughneck telegraph bar digger has a chisel blade and pointed tip, thus allowing it to easily break the materials. Whereas, the true temper all steel digging and tampering bar contains a chisel blade on one end and a tamping plate on the other. 

Uses

• Used to pry, tamp, and demolish the objects.
• Good choice to dig a hole.
• Loosen the compacted soil.

Pry Bar

A pry bar or crowbar is a striking tool that has a single curved end and flattened points. The curved end contains a notch that can be used to remove nails. In addition, it can force two objects apart to lift the objects. The uses of prybars vary from one another as they come in different sizes and models.

Uses

• Used for prying open, separating, or lifting the materials.
• Remove the nails or break the wood or drywall.
• Break apart the rightly fitted objects.
• Lift the heavy materials.

Choose the right striking tool for your need

As there are a variety of striking tools, choosing the right striking tool is important. Each striking tool varies in terms of strength, head design, and uses. They have their specialty and application of use. The material that you are working with and the force required also matter in selecting the right striking tool. 

For example, woodworking requires lightweight hammers or rubber mallets. Whereas, a sledgehammer is a good choice for demolishing or crushing the hard materials.

Thus, it is important to consider different factors such as material, task, striking surface, power required, etc while choosing the striking tool.

Conclusion

Overall, selecting the right striking tool is crucial so that you can do your job effortlessly. Using the wrong striking tool can affect your productivity, as well as it can damage the material. Also, you should ensure the grip and balance of the tool in hand to properly use the tool and ace your task. 

Get yourself high-quality striking tools at JCBL Handtools. Here, we manufacture products up to international quality standards to satisfy your needs. Click here it check out our product range. 

FAQ

What are striking tools?

Whether hit or strike an object, striking tools are a handful. There are various types of striking tools based on their size, design, and purpose like hammers, punches, chisels, etc.

What are the uses of striking tools in the workshop?

In the workshop, striking tools are used to shape materials, drive in or pull out nails, and other tasks where forceful impact is required. 

What are the 4 types of striking tools?

Hammers, punches, chisels, and drifts are the four types of striking tools. Some other types of striking tools include clawhammers, rubber mallets, dead blow hammers, and crowbars.